The Environmental Partnerships Program is empowering local organisations to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes across Bass Coast.

Established following the adoption of Council's Partnership Policy and Framework in 2023, the program provides up to $100,000 each year to support collaborative projects that advance climate action, biodiversity protection and community resilience.

This month has seen three Environmental partnerships approved for the continuation of the second year of their programs. They are the Phillip Island Land Alliance, the Gippsland Threatened Species Action Group and Mycelia Renewables.

The Gippsland Threatened Species Action Group (GTSAG), in partnership with the Bunurong Land Council, CFA and Landcare, is helping protect the critically endangered Kilcunda Natural Damp Grasslands through a cultural and ecological burn program. The first year has included woody weed control, flora surveys and a successful test burn, with a CFA-led burn planned for October as part of ongoing efforts to restore this unique and threatened ecosystem.

Improving environmental outcomes also means supporting people. Mycelia Renewables' "Less Cost, More Comfort" initiative is helping vulnerable households improve energy efficiency, reduce power bills and better withstand climate-related challenges. In its first year, the project delivered 16 home energy assessments, completed 11 energy-efficiency upgrades and ran nine community workshops. By partnering with local community centres and securing an additional $27,500 in leveraged funding, Mycelia is extending support to those who need it most while building stronger community resilience.

One of the program's standout projects is being led by the Phillip Island Land Alliance (PILA), a network of 11 Landcare and Coastcare groups working together to strengthen wildlife connectivity across Phillip Island. Through the Biolinks project, PILA is bringing together land managers, farmers, volunteers and community stakeholders to identify opportunities and threats to biodiversity and develop a shared vision for habitat restoration. Extensive consultation, including surveys and workshops, will inform strategic biolinks mapping and practical guidelines that will help create healthier, more connected landscapes for native species.

Together, these partnerships demonstrate the power of collaboration in creating a healthier environment in Bass Coast.

You can get involved in rewilding Phillip Island with PILA through their planting days on Event Calendar | Phillip Island Land Alliance.