Volunteers branch out

Rahima Khatun, Zahra Sayahi and Kamila Akrami are ready to go green.

By Tate Papworth

A program encouraging the west’s multicultural community to band together in environmental projects has been launched.

The Cross-Cultural Volunteer Program – run by Melbourne Airport and Conservation Volunteers Australia was launched last month and will continue for three years.

It will run once a month at Organ Pipes National Park, where participants will assist in environmental restoration activities ranging from plant revegetation and maintenance of new plantings to monitoring animal populations and water qualities.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lyell Strambi said the program was a unique way for the airport to support the community.

“Melbourne Airport operates in one of the most culturally diverse regions in the nation, so we are pleased to partner with Conservation Volunteers Australia to help local migrants and refugees build their social network, while improving language skills,” Mr Strambi said.

Conservation Volunteers Australia chief executive Phil Harrison said the program ticks all the boxes.

“The Cross-Cultural Volunteer Program is a great example of how we can support both across a unique and diverse community,” he said.

To register visit www.conservationvolunteers.com.au or contact Conservation Volunteers Melbourne on 9326 8239.