Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has praised the work of the Moogji Aboriginal Council following a visit to the organisation’s headquarters in Orbost.
Mr Chester met with staff and toured the facilities to learn more about the services Moogji provides across East Gippsland, from Nowa Nowa through to Genoa.
“Moogji is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation making an enormous contribution to our region,” Mr Chester said.
“They provide a wide range of services including medical and counselling support, youth programs, alcohol and drug services, as well as environmental initiatives such as the Moogji Bushbank, nursery and cultural trail.”
During his visit, Mr Chester was given a tour of the Australian plant nursery by staff members Kayla Wilson, Misty Anderson, Samantha LeSage and Sharmaine Martin.
“The team is passionate about growing and nurturing a wide range of indigenous species, including grevillea, callistemon, eucalyptus and wattle,” Mr Chester said.
“The nursery supports sustainable gardening and helps improve local biodiversity, while also providing expert advice on topics such as water-wise gardening and attracting native wildlife.”
The nursery is open to the public Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 2pm.
Mr Chester said Moogji’s work had far-reaching benefits for the East Gippsland community.
“Moogji is doing great work to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, share culture with the wider community, and protect the local environment,” Mr Chester said.
