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Community ownership of the natural environment

Situated at 'the gateway to the Dandenongs' Knox includes extensive areas of natural bushland, parks and creek valleys, at least one of which is home to a thriving family of platypus. With the clean and green feel of the City an important part of its attraction for residents and businesses Council is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the local environment through the Knox Conservation Strategy.

Among its initiatives are the installation of litter traps to protect local streams and public recycling facilities. Director Service Planning, Ian Mann, said Council's Strategy is broad in its direction and encourages community ownership of the environment.

"We have a large number of Friends Groups which undertake a lot of the work in our natural bush areas," he said. "These groups eradicate weeds and other pests. Their work also promotes community support for an area with a commensurate decline in vandalism."

Council also acts to protect the environment by negotiating with developers over sensitive areas. Ian cited an instance when development near a platypus colony prompted Council to negotiate with the developer to include substantial setbacks from the creek to avoid disturbing the colony.

In addition, an alignment of street lighting was negotiated to reflect away from the platypus habitat. In built up areas, litter prevention is playing a role in protecting the environment. Shopping centre drains are fitted with litter traps to prevent rubbish entering local streams.

Knox is one of the first Victorian Councils to obtain grants for fixed public place recyclable containers in shopping centres. These containers are also in recreation reserves.

Every year, the Knox community celebrates its environment at the Stringybark Festival, a combination of family entertainment and environmental education. Last year it attracted over 20,000 people.

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