Mallee CMA Celebrates Hattah Win
The Mallee Catchment Management Authority (CMA) continues to be recognised for its achievements in protecting and restoring the region’s environment, after it was announced as the winning entrant in the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Clean Beach / Waterway Award.
The Awards ceremony, which was held in Horsham, highlighted the efforts of Victorians in working to make the state of Victoria ‘more beautiful’ and sustainable.
The Mallee CMA took out the Waterway Award in recognition of its ongoing commitment to supporting and restoring the iconic, Ramsar listed, Hattah Lakes.
Mallee CMA Chair, Sharyon Peart said the award was a credit to the dedicated staff who have worked hard to improve the long term sustainability of the Hattah Lakes.
“Hattah is such a unique site and is significant culturally and environmentally. The Mallee CMA is proud to be playing a crucial role in ensuring it’s here, healthy and vibrant, for future generations to enjoy.
“Awards that acknowledge our contribution are, of course, wonderful but the greatest reward comes from seeing the benefits our projects are delivering to Hattah.
“Planned environmental watering is helping to restore the lakes and wetlands and the abundance of wildlife, birds, native fish movement and new plants are a great sign of our achievement.”
Ms. Peart says the works at Hattah benefit the environment and the community, with interest and visitor numbers rising, as people seek out an authentic Mallee wetland experience.
“The Hattah project delivers on every level and this award identifies the value it contributes regionally and nationally.”
The Waterway Award recognises outstanding achievement in protecting, maintaining and enhancing a waterway and the Mallee CMA faced stiff competition.
Beechworth, and Dimboola were also finalists, receiving accolades for their innovative projects that capitalise on and enhance, waterways in their local areas.
“Yet again, Hattah is being distinguished as a valuable place, so if you haven’t been out there for a while, now is the time to rediscover the incredible environment right outside our own backdoor,” Ms. Peart said.