Whittlesea Community Connections

As friends of the very active Whittlesea Climate Change Action Network (WCAN), we joined a visit to Nugal Biik Plants and Seeds in Wollert. Nugal Biik is a production nursery specialising in indigenous flora from Melbourne's northern region and operates as a social enterprise supporting First Nations initiatives and conservation activities.

Walking through the nursery and seeing the incredible diversity of plants being grown was inspiring, and we left feeling really optimistic. There were grasses, shrubs, and trees, including many species that are now rare or endangered. These species are so important for restoring Victorian grasslands.

Hearing about the team's work in Indigenous horticulture and plant propagation was particularly fascinating. They are learning and applying techniques that work with nature rather than against it, including specialised seed mediums with no phosphorus and, for some species, creating smoky conditions to encourage germination. There is just so much knowledge here and so much for all of us to learn.

At one stage, our founder Maggie McDonell held a tiny seed of a River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) in her hand, expressing how it was almost impossible to comprehend how something so small contains everything needed to become one of Australia's most iconic, long-lived, and magnificent trees.

It was wonderful to see organisations like Nugal Biik doing such important work, and equally encouraging to see so many people across our community contributing their time, knowledge, and passion to conservation and restoration efforts.

Have your say on local climate concerns 🌍

The Whittlesea Climate Action Network is a community-led network working to strengthen local action and resilience in Whittlesea.

We’re running a short survey to hear directly from you. Your feedback will help shape what comes next.

🕒 It only takes a few minutes and makes a real difference:
👉 https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx...
🔗 Join in here: https://lnkd.in/gyxehqAY

Belonging means different things to different people.

For some, it’s feeling safe. For others, it’s finding friendship.

It might be learning a new skill, finding work, helping a neighbour, or simply feeling connected to the people around us.

As we mark Refugee Week, we celebrate the many ways people find belonging and the communities that help make it possible. Because when everyone feels welcome, our whole community is stronger.

A million stories. A million examples of courage.

Refugee Week is a chance to recognise the strength and resilience of people from refugee backgrounds and the many ways they contribute to our communities.

From raising families and pursuing education to volunteering, working and building new beginnings, their stories are part of what makes our communities stronger.

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This Refugee Week, we recognise the stories, experiences and journeys that shape our communities.

Behind every smile, every achievement and every new beginning is a story.

Stories help us understand one another. They build empathy, challenge stereotypes and create stronger communities.

Take a moment to listen to someone's story. You might be surprised by what you learn.

What stories, experiences or people have helped shape who you are today?

🌏 This week is Refugee Week 2026.

Refugee Week is a chance to learn more about the experiences of people from refugee backgrounds, recognise the challenges they have overcome, and celebrate the many ways they contribute to our communities.

This year’s theme, A Million Stories, reminds us that every person has a unique story, and every story matters.

At WCC, we're proud to support a diverse community where people feel welcome, connected and supported.

Read more: https://www.refugeeweek.org.au/

🌱 Community members recently gathered at Wollert Community Farm as part of a series of workshops delivered in partnership with Merri Creek Management Committee, exploring Wurundjeri Country and learning about the newly established marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands.

The event also coincided with just over one year since the farm was established at its new Wollert site, in partnership with Yarra Valley Water. It was a great opportunity to share how far the farm has come, welcome visitors to the space, and hear ideas about what comes next.

We loved seeing local residents, volunteers and supporters come together to connect, learn and celebrate everything that makes this community space so special.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support the farm. 🌿


Merri Creek Management Committee,

Registration relief is here.

If you own a light passenger vehicle in Victoria, you can get
20% off your vehicle registration for the 2025–26 financial
year.

A few things to know:

➡️ It’s not automatic; you need to apply
✅ Light passenger vehicles only
❌ Businesses are not eligible
⚠️ Only the current owner can apply

Applications are open now through Service Victoria until 31
July. Check your eligibility and apply at
https://service.vic.gov.au/rego-rebate