A project which has led to employment opportunities in the environment sector has been recognised with a Skillset Land Works award.
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The innovative Swamped by Threats project, led by Huw Evans from Central Tablelands Local Land Services, has been declared the winner of the 2019 Skillset Land Works Award, recognising the project's key role working with the Upper Dingo Swamp Internship Program.
The Skillset vocational training organisation's Land Works Award celebrates successful partnerships that provide training in the improvement and maintenance of the natural environment.
The Swamped by Threats project receives funding assistance through the NSW Government's Environmental Trust and is led by Central Tablelands Local Land Services in partnership with Greater Sydney Local Land Services, Blue Mountains City Council, Forestry Corporation NSW, Lithgow Oberon Landcare, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, and the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.
The Land Works Award recognises the project's significant contribution to the Upper Dingo Swamp Internship Program, which operates as a partnership between Local Land Services, Land Works, Skills4Trade and Forestry Corporation NSW.
Through the internship program, fifteen local Lithgow participants were given the opportunity to complete Skills4Trade TAFE training, with 16 days on the job experience protecting the endangered Upper Dingo Swamp, engaging with industry professionals, and developing foundational skills in environmental management.
"This is well deserved recognition for the great work done by Huw and our natural resource management team who are delivering the Swamped by Threats project in collaboration with our project partners across the region," said Central Tablelands Local Land Services general manager, Chris Cumming.
Four of the interns have now gone on to secure ongoing positions with a Land Works Crew that continues to carry out important environmental work across Lithgow City Council, Forestry and Local Land Services sites.
"It's great to be able to undertake work that not only helps protect the habitat of the threatened Blue Mountains Water Skink and Giant Dragonfly, but also benefits the local community through building skills and engagement in participants," Mr Evans said.
"The success of the project demonstrates the outcomes Local Land Services can achieve through partnerships with regional organisations, community groups, and local young people to restore and enhance our natural environment."
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