Our Role

HEWI is a community voice acting to protect and conserve important elements of our local environment.

Our Background

Healesville Heritage Watch was established in 1989 in response to community concerns for the local environment. In 1996, the name was changed to Healesville Environment Watch Inc. to reflect the change of focus needed to respond to complex government planning procedures that are threatening local environments.

Our Aims

1. Within the Ward of Ryrie, Shire of Yarra Ranges, to promote public appreciation, knowledge, protection, enjoyment and enhancement of our natural environment.
2. Identify and assess areas of the natural environment and advocate their protective management. Promote the listing of specified elements of the environment that warrant protection including flora, fauna and waterways.
3. Assist and encourage town planners and property developers to adopt sound land usage, building design and conservation policies that are environmentally sensitive.
4. Take issue and promote public discussion and debate over proposed actions that threaten significant elements of our environment.
5. Encourage and advocate projects to repair damage to the natural environment and participate in activities and projects such as revegetation and weed eradication.

Our Projects

Community Information Resource

HEWI has a large collection of information about local and general environmental issues that we can share. We can also provide information on correct procedures and appropriate contacts within the Shire regarding environmental issues.

Revegetation Projects

Join us on community planting days to restore our local native vegetation. These days are a great way to get yourself and your family involved in improving your local environment and reconnecting yourself with nature.

Planning Schemes

We act as a community voice for sustainable development within the Shire by reviewing planning submissions, advising on local governance, attending relevant Council meetings and appearing before hearings as required.

Nature Walks

Occasional guided walks through areas native vegetation to identify and record occurrences of rare and endangered plant species. No previous experience is required to join these fun and educational outings. Community Planting Days to revegetate the Don Road Creek in Queens Park

Contact Details

PO Box 444
Healesville VIC 3777

03 5962 1224 Phone/FAX

hewisec@bigpond.com

http://hewi.friends.melbournewater.com.au/