TWO hundred and sixty spotted tree frogs are being released into the Mount Buffalo National Park.

Department of Sustainability and Environment senior biodiversity officer Glen Johnson said the species was confirmed extinct at the release site in 1983.

"A small number of frogs that were rescued from a nearby site have been used in a captive breeding program over the past six years and it's their young that will go back to this site," he said.

"This is the first release of a three-year release program. We know Buffalo provides great habitat for this species and we'll be undertaking monitoring to confirm the frogs' survival and breeding success."

Parks Victoria chief ranger Peter Jacobs said a lot of work had gone into eliminating blackberries, willows, Himalayan honeysuckle and other weeds in the area.

Build it, they'll come

ARCHITECTS are working on the design of the proposed Casterton Child and Family Complex while Glenelg Council works on securing money for the project.

The design is expected to be completed by the end of next month.

Glenelg Mayor Gilbert Wilson said the project had been estimated to cost between $1.5 and $1.7 million.

He said the council had been encouraged to apply for a Department of Education and Early Childhood Development grant, which would mean another $500,000. 

Scholarships offer

MOYNE Shire will offer $1500 scholarships to three local students heading off to begin their full-time tertiary education.

Moyne Shire Mayor Jim Doukas said the money would help the students settle.

"Being local we hope they return to the Moyne Shire once they've completed their studies and bring back knowledge and skills that will help enhance the economic productivity of the shire," Cr Doukas said.