Backyard Biodiversity Project 2025

Take part in our pilot project in Kyneton

If you live in Kyneton, you can apply to join our Backyard Biodiversity pilot project! Successful applications will receive:

• a free box of 10-15 plants native to your area
• expert advice tailored to your backyard from a garden designer
• knowledge to create wildlife-friendly spaces.

Is Backyard Biodiversity for you? 

• Do you live in the Kyneton township? Renting? No worries - Backyard Biodiversity can be tailored to suit your needs.
• Want to attract more wildlife to your backyard?
• Have a space in your backyard you'd like to convert into a habitat?

If you answered yes...

Let's grow!

Here's how it works

Apply now to become part of our Kyneton pilot program. If successful, you will:

1. Attend a workshop on 17 May 2025 in Kyneton to learn how to create backyard habitats.
2. Book a consultation with our garden designer for your personalised hand-drawn design. The design will be for a maximum space of 3x3m or 9m2.
3. Following the consultation, plants are ordered with Wombat Native Nursery. 
4. Observe with your before and after photos. Sit back and enjoy your backyard come to life with new wildlife visitors.

Applications close at 5pm Sunday 13 April 2025.

Selection criteria

To ensure the success of the project, applications will be assessed based on selection criteria that align with the project's goals and priorities.

1. Shared Motivations (35%)

• Demonstrates a strong interest in improving backyard biodiversity and supporting local wildlife.
• Willingness to engage in sustainable gardening practices.
• Commitment to maintaining the garden after project completion.

2. Wildlife Corridors (30%)

• The applicant lives within the Kyneton township. They can rent or own their land.
• Priority is given to those near existing wildlife corridors (e.g., Campaspe River) or those with shared community interest in creating connected habitats.
• Backyard or house block can be any size, participants will receive a garden plan for a maximum 9m² or 3x3 meters.

3. Skills and Knowledge (20%)

• No prior experience required, but those eager to learn and apply new skills are preferred.
• Understanding of local flora and fauna is a plus but not essential.

4. Community Connections (15%)

• Willingness to share learnings with neighbours or participate in community-led biodiversity initiatives.
• Potential to inspire or collaborate with others to expand the impact of the project.

Scoring matrix

Eligibility & Limitations

• Must reside within Kyneton Township.
• Not open to applicants outside of Kyneton.
• Garden design will be a maximum of 9m² or 3x3m.
• Consultation appointments are 45–60 minutes long.
• Each participant will receive a personalised hand-drawn garden design.
• A free box of 10–15 plants will be provided based on the garden design.

Application Process

• Applications will be assessed based on the above criteria by an assessment panel consisting of Kimberley Cook and Jaclyn Harris. Sue Meli will join the panel where the application requires an expert assessment.
• Preference will be given to applicants scoring above 70%.
• Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for a brief discussion before final selection.
• Successful applicants will receive an email that their application has been successful.
• Successful applicants will be invited to the Backyard Biodiversity Workshop on 17 May.

For more information, contact the Project Manager, Kimberley Cook, Environment Engagement Officer, Macedon Ranges Shire Council

kimcook@mrsc.vic.gov.au, or 0436 654 301.