By Alesha Capone
Wyndham inventor Joe Ferlazzo has designed an eco-friendly home for animals affected by the recent bushfires.
Mr Ferlazzo is part of Grow With Joe, a group of volunteers who strive to make a difference for disadvantaged individuals and the environment by upscaling recycled materials into useful items.
Mr Ferlazzo, said the plight of wildlife who survived the bushfires had struck a chord with him.
“I felt sorry for the animals who were left – I was going, ‘Far out, what can I do?’” he said.
In response, he created the LOG INN, an artificial log made from recycled wood, to provide animals, such as potteroos, native mice, lizards and ground birds, a home until their native habitat is restored.
Mr Ferlazzo said the LOG INNs featured a baffle system, to prevent access by feral cats and foxes.
The LOG INNs are constructed using only wooden dowel joints so they will compost within four to five years and not leave anything behind to damage the environment.
They are being manufactured at Envision Werribee and other Envision sites.
Mr Ferlazzo said Grow With Joe was supplying the LOG INNS free to wildlife rescue organisations and shelters.
“I took a heap up to Yarrawonga, to an animal shelter there, and they were absolutely rapt,” he said.
Wyndham Rotary is helping to support the LOG INN project, and Bunnings in Werribee and Hoppers Crossing have donated materials and tools.
Details: growwithjoe.org
