Four years ago, the vaste majority of Ben and Lauren Moren’s property in Jimboomba was infested by lantana and weeds.
Now they’re working hard to undo the damage caused by the invasive flora.
And with the help of environment grants from Land for Wildlife and the local council, their efforts aren’t going to waste.
The couple has won three grants, which for locals can range from $1500 to $10000 each, to help conduct environmental surveys and research, education, on-ground ecosystem restoration and individual wildlife carer support.
As members of Land for Wildlife, a local program assisting landholders to manage wildlife habitat on their properties, the Morans were eligible for three restoration grants within a 10-year period.
According to Ms Moren, the couple has not only rejuvenated native grasses and shrubs on their 3ha block, but also attracted a range of curious creatures.
Whiptail Wallabies, Eastern Grey Kangaroos, bandicoots an echidna, and even a 7-year-old koala named Karl – the Moran’s can now spot it all.
“When we moved here four years ago almost 80 per cent of our 7.5 acre block was covered by lantana and weeds,” she said.
“We’re so grateful to Logan City Council and Land for Wildlife for opportunities like the EnviroGrants program.
“It has allowed us to achieve our goals a lot sooner and the techniques we’ve learnt from our environmental contractors are invaluable in helping us maintain the property.”
She said they now hoped to enter into a voluntary conservation partnership with Logan City Council to better manage the natural areas of their property.
The council’s environment grants program, now in it’s 31st year, provides financial assistance to individuals, community groups, schools, businesses and organisations working to protect and enhance the city’s natural environment.
Almost $200,000 in funding was handed out last year.
Applications for the 2025 program can be submitted until Wednesday 12 March.
Local mayor Jon Raven said it was important for council and the community to work together towards a cleaner, greener city.
“I’d love to see people who are passionate about protecting our green spaces apply for a 2025 EnviroGrant,” Cr Raven said.
“Each year, this program supports projects designed have lasting impacts on future generations.
He said the Moran’s work on their own property was proof that eco projects don’t need to be “large or flashy”.
“… they just need improve local land and wildlife habitats,” he said.
“Ben and Lauren have made great progress removing invasive weeds and their efforts are paying off, with native wildlife, including koalas, back on their block.”
To apply, visit logan.qld.gov.au/envirogrants
