The volunteers from Fawkner Muslim Scouts participated in a tree planting exercise at Hildene, south of Seymour.
It was an opportunity for the Scouts to visit the country, with their work counting towards acquiring Landcare badges.
The day was organised by Sonia Sharkey from the South West Goulburn Landcare Network, on behalf of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority.
The Scouts set to work on Henry Marszalek’s property, where they planted 1000 understorey plants in a two-hectare disused road reserve.
Janice Mentiplay-Smith from Goulburn Broken CMA said the work was very important.
“These understorey shrubs will enhance the environment by attracting all the marsupial, bird and insect species that need the understorey in which to feed, breed and shelter,” Ms Mentiplay-Smith said.
Haydar Hussein from the Fawkner Scouts Club said the group had fun and felt as though they’d achieved something substantial.
“In my mind I feel I’m giving something back. I have spent a lot of time taking and now it’s time to give back,” he said.
“In our religion, when the leaves rustle it means the plants are praying for us.”
Ms Sharkey said the day was advertised through a Muslim Facebook page.
“They seemed to really enjoy the day. So much so, we are planning more regular planting days,” she said.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for volunteers to gather, get their hands dirty and work outside in the environment.
This project is supported by the Goulburn Broken CMA through funding from the Federal Government’s National Landcare Program.
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