History
The concept of a local 'environmental hub' was initiated by the
City of Port Phillip in 1998 and has now grown to be an independent
community-managed environment organization Port Phillip EcoCentre
Inc
A community working group was established to develop the concept
and the EcoCentre was formally launched in St Kilda Botanical Gardens
in December 1999.
CoPP has continued its support in the form of the building and
utility expenses, and is the prime sponsor enabling the EcoCentre
to employ the equivalent of 1.5 staff.
The EcoCentre Coordinator role is filled by Neil Blake , who has
developed an extensive knowledge of the regional environment since
commencing work in this field in 1985.
The management committee meets monthly, or more often as required.
Sub-committees are formed on a project by project basis. Activities
and projects are initiated as funds, and personnel become available.
The EcoCentre has been structured as a regional 'umbrella' environment
organization to meet the Environment Australia criteria, which enables
tax deductible donations.
This enhances the EcoCentre's ability to attract external funding/sponsors
and ultimately provide improved services to members and the community
in general.
The EcoCentre initiates educational projects, and provides meeting
space, office facilities, an environmental reference library, and
an example of environmental action in practice.
In providing a focus for community groups and individuals to meet
and share knowledge and resources, the EcoCentre builds networks,
maximizing positive environmental action, with a flow-on effect
of awareness among the general community.
The EcoCentre also supports the goals of its principal sponsor,
the City of Port Phillip (CoPP). |
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The Vision
"In 2010 Port Phillip EcoCentre will be operating
7 days a week; a social hub attracting interest, creating links,
and inspiring sustainable living"
Local families call in for refreshments, to meet friends, and check
out the butterflies and turtles. Students in the resource room research
environmental issues and projects.
The heritage horticulture buff is about to lead a tour of the St
Kilda Botanical Gardens. An EcoGarden volunteer swaps tips for biological
pest control with a member of a local community garden.
Two local government officers and a community health worker have
arrived from a rural shire to investigate the EcoCentre's 'community-building'
blueprint.
They're having a coffee with members of Earthcare's Rakali research
team who have just finished proof-reading an activities booklet
for local schools.
Meanwhile, EcoCentre staff are facilitating a new partnership project;
meeting with representatives of government agencies, community groups
and a potential corporate sponsor.
The EcoCentre is widely respected for its track record in making
successful partnership projects happen.
People (backpackers to local residents) visit the EcoCentre to
- find out what's going on;
- be involved in community environment projects;
- learn the latest on sustainable design, energy and water saving
technologies and practices;
- attend a training session, conference or forum;
- school or club excursions;
- learn more about the St Kilda Botanical Gardens;
- learn about and participate in City of Port Phillip's environmental
programs;
- research the EcoCentre blueprint, with a view to creating something
similar in their own community;
- socialize and have fun.
Annual Report
Download our 2004/2005 annual report by clicking the link bellow (1.5 megabyte PDF).
2004/2005 Annual Report |
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