The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) has launched the first ever Victoria Nature Festival, a free virtual event aimed at helping Victorians stay connected with nature while following public health restrictions.
The Department said the event was originally planned as a traditional festival, but had been reorganised as an online event in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It will feature an impressive array of events, activities and experiences Victorians – and those who live beyond our borders – can enjoy,” the Department said.
Deputy Secretary, Environment and Climate Change at DELWP, Kylie White said the change was made possible because of the broad collaboration with festival partners like Parks Victoria, Royal Botanic Gardens, Zoos Victoria, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation and many others.
“Although a live festival would have been wonderful, taking the two-week event online means more people can enjoy many nature-related events, experiences and activities,” Ms White said.
“There’s no need to buy tickets or travel from one event to the next,” she said.
“We have timed the festival to coincide with the last half of the school holidays to give little kids – and big kids too – lots of free entertainment options they can enjoy from the comfort of home.”
Ms White said festival highlights included the Phillip Island virtual penguin parade; virtual meditation in the Royal Botanic Gardens; learning how to build nesting boxes (a family friendly activity); and nature seminars.
She said connecting with nature was important for mental health and wellbeing.
“Particularly at times like these,” she said.
“We want to remind Victorians that they can still enjoy nature with a daily walk through the park, birdwatching from their yard or getting a virtual view of Phillip Island’s little penguins take their evening race to their burrows.”
Ms White said the Festival would run from next week (28 September) until 11 October.
Further information, including the full program of events can be accessed at this PS News link.
