The sustainability project will give school and university students, scout groups and other local community groups a unique learning experience of the wetlands and its inhabitants, allowing them to engage with wildlife and develop a connection to their local environment.

Nestlé Purina Factory Manager, Joé Meintjes said that the company is committed to supporting and playing an active role in projects that help improve the environment.

“The project will give school students and local community members a valuable opportunity to learn about environmentally and socially responsible ways to nurture the local wetlands habitat and the part we can all play in its ongoing upkeep and sustainability,” he said.

Once installed, the wetlands viewing platform will provide a safe vantage point for people to get close to local wildlife and offer a first-hand opportunity to study how ecosystems develop, change and expand over time.

The majority of the platform structure will be constructed in aluminium, made from recycled aluminium cans, whilst the baluster rail will utilise a combination of recycled plastic and timber.

Director of works and services for Blayney Shire Council, Grant Baker said that he is confident the project will be completed by the end of the year.

“This latest project is set to provide further opportunities for local school students and the wider community to gain valuable insight into environmental issues,” he said.

“We get a lot of positive comments about the park from people who are passing through. It does great things for the town.”

The project will get underway later this month with clearing of the area to be developed.

Local school students will then be involved in on-site environmental education workshops and activities including plant identification, wildlife and habitat rehabilitation and urban storm water management.

The grant funding will also provide for interpretive signage to further educate visitors about the resident wildlife and function of the wetlands in maintaining local ecosystems.

The Nestlé Community Environment Program works to improve the environment in local communities around Australia where the company operates. Previous projects funded in the Blayney area have included river restoration, fencing remnant woodland, stormwater protection and recreation equipment at the Blayney Adventure Playground.