Article reproduced from the ypct.com.au – February 11 2020 edition

NATIONAL Trust of South Australia Moonta branch is using a federal government grant to replace feral plants with natives. The branch will match its $10,000 funding from the Communities Environment Program to remove feral grass and Aleppo pines from a section of the Moonta Mines heritage precinct. “We’re very happy to receive this grant,” branch chairperson Stephen Stock said. “Clearing and exposing tracks, roads and old railway lines used during the Cornish mining era will add to the attraction of the national heritage mining site. “It will also mean we can identify open mine shafts that are dangerous to public safety and allow us to better manage this hazard.” Works will focus on the area in front of Hughes Enginehouse, removing several trees to create a clearer view for the tourist train. “In the future we’ll be doing some work between Richman’s and Hughes and
other different sites enabling clear walking paths to be established and further enhance the tourist experience,” Mr Stock said. “This work will also allow us to put fire tracks in place to give clear access to emergency service vehicles should a fire occur in this area.” Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey commended the branch on its project. “The Moonta National Trust has shown great initiative in securing funding for a project which will deliver environmental outcomes through a feral tree and weeds environmental management plan for the Moonta Mines heritage area,” Mr Ramsey said. “Eliminating feral grasses and Aleppo pines will have a huge impact on the area and assist in reducing fire danger. “This funding program is to empower communities to identify local priorities and back them with financial support, and this is exactly what the Moonta National Trust has achieved with this project. “I congratulate them on their successful application.”