“ONCE DESTROYED NATURE’S BEAUTY CANNOT BE REPURCHASED AT ANY PRICE”

Ansel Adams

I was lucky enough to watch this Yellow-faced Honeyeater build her nest and raise three chicks on my veranda over Christmas. Pic Scheltema

• UCLN APPOINTS NEW THREATENED SPECIES PROJECT OFFICER
• PHASCOGALE SIGHTINGS WANTED!
• SEED COLLECTING BEGINS AT BALD HILL RESERVE
• ASHBOURNE LANDCARE CONTINUES BIOLINKS PROJECT
• VBA GO APP LAUNCHED
• EVENTS, RESOURCES AND GRANTS

Welcome to the summer edition of the UCLN ENews. Scroll down to the Events and Resources section and you will find a wealth of interesting events on offer – from Social Media training, a Sustainable Soils conference, a Forum to launch our Citizen Science project and much more.

UCLN APPOINTS BRAD BLAKE AS THREATENED SPECIES PROJECT OFFICER

Newly appointed Threatened Species Officer Brad Blake is examined  by a phascogale, one of the species he will be  surveying with the help of our community . Pic Scheltema

I would like to welcome Brad Blake to the UCLN. He will be leading surveys for three threatened species – the Powerful Owl, Phascogale and Greater glider – in our area in conjunction with our Landcare community.

Brad brings with him a wealth of experience in threatened species monitoring. He has worked across Australia in various roles protecting native species and engaging communities in order to raise awareness of Australia’s declining biodiversity. Over the past 2 years Brad has surveyed forests for threatened species across Victoria, in particular Greater glider, Powerful owl, Barking owl and Spotted-tailed quoll.

He has recently uncovered new populations of Greater glider and Long nosed bandicoot in West Gippsland and has confirmed several old records of Greater glider in the Wombat State Forest.

Greater Glider, one of the species the UCLN will be surveying as part of our Citizen Science Project.  Pic Matt Wright.

“I’m honored and excited to be working with the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council in this role as Threatened Species Community Project Officer. It’s extremely important that we continue to collect data on the threatened species of our region so that Government and the community can better manage our public and private land. This will ensure that species at risk of extinction survive and persist into the future for generations to come.”

“I’m looking forward to engaging  the community and helping them learn the techniques required to survey their local area for these iconic threatened species.” said Brad.

To find out how you can become involved in this exciting two year project to help protect these cryptic and elusive  species come along to a Forum on the 10th March from 2.00 – 5.00 pm at Newham Mechanics Hall. Book at this link – BookForum

PHASCOGALE SIGHTINGS WANTED!

Do you think there may be phascogales on your property? Contact Brad Blake to become part of our remote camera project. Pic Scheltema

As part of the funding from the Biodiversity on-ground Action Grants the UCLN has purchased five remote sensing cameras to help us photograph and record threatened species.Our Threatened Species Community Project Officer Brad Blake has already begun installing cameras on some sites.

If you think you may have phascogales in your area, or have seen them dead or alive please contact Brad at  brad@proconpest.com or 0421823998.

Also if you have been hearing the distinctive Woooo-wooo of the Powerful Owl, or have seen their pellets (which are regurgitated possums or birds bones and fur or feathers) please contact myself or Brad. Another clue that you may have them in your area is finding possums tails which the owls often pull off and discard when feeding.

More at this link an-eye-on-special-species

Powerful Owl pellet.If you have seen these can you please collect them and contact Brad or myself.
Pic Scheltema

SEED COLLECTION BEGINS AT BALD HILL

Alida Fabris from the Friends of Bald Hill Reserve with some of the blackwood seed that the group is collecting to propagate and grow at the Reserve. Pic Scheltema

The Friends of Bald Hill Reserve are working on increasing the mid story vegetation at the Reserve as a result of their recent successful Biodiversity On Ground Action grant. Members of the Friends group were recently collecting seed at the Reserve guided by Matt Comer and Ash Elliott from Goldfields Revegetation.

President Carolyn Robb said “This is an exciting opportunity to not only learn about seed collection but to also learn from experts about plant identification. It is a great opportunity to learn about new species. We are trying to increase the mid-storey vegetation at Bald Hill Reserve.It is important habitat for threatened species such as the phascogale. We want to ensure we have the correct habitat to increase their chances of survival.”

ASHBOURNE LANDCARE CONTINUES BIOLINKS PROJECT

A Dianella amoena (Matted Flax-lily), one of the threatened species which will benefit from the work of Ashbourne Landcare.                                                                    Pic Scheltema

As a result of their successful Biodiversity On-ground Action Funding, Ashbourne Landcare is working on a project to create individual sections of biolinks to link remnant patches of vegetation across the Ashbourne Landscape.The project brings together 11 landowners who are dedicating parts of their properties to support biodiversity with the aim of improving habitat area and connectivity across the landscape.

Said Ashbourne Landcare member Alan Denehey “This follows on from last years successful project to set up five biolink demonstration sites working with six landowners. The work will include flora surveys, woody weed removal, livestock exclusion fencing and planting with indigenous species appropriate to the terrain.”

These works will particularly support  threatened species such as Powerful Owls, matted flax-lillies and phascogales.”

Ashbourne Landcare is helping protect threatened species by collaborating with 11 landowners to improve biodiversity and connectivity in the Ashbourne landscape. Pic Scheltema

This is just one of the many great projects being undertaken by UCLN member groups working hard to protect our environment.

VBA GO APP LAUNCHED

Using phones at Bald Hill Reserve to enter data on species. Pic Scheltema.

Help record our precious flora and fauna in the region by using the new VBA Go App.This mobile tool  links directly to the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas, making it easier  for environmental managers, researchers, students and community members to record Victoria’s native flora and fauna whilst out and about. For more information on the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas follow this link:  VicBioAtlas

Before using the App you first need to  register with the VBA  which you can do  on the link above.

The UCLN has been working with DELWP to trial the new App.We will be holding further workshops on using it at a later date.Interested? Watch this short video about the App featuring  Carolyn Robb from Friends of Bald Hill Reserve and myself.

VBA Go – Knowledge is Power

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlbn8NuIvxI

MACEDON RANGES SHIRE COUNCIL NEW BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY

Contribute to the Macedon Ranges Biodiversity Strategy and help protect the Shires special natural places. Pic Scheltema

MRSC COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROCESS:

For those of you in the Macedon Shire, Council is inviting feedback on its new Biodiversity Strategy that will guide Council and the community to work towards a healthier environment and better protection for our native plants and  animals.

From Monday 5 February, residents can have their say on the Shire’s biodiversity assets by pinpointing important natural features on an interactive map, available at www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay

Online feedback on the Biodiversity Strategy finishes on 12th of March.

For more information on the Biodiversity Strategy call Krista Patterson-Majoor on 5421 9503.

Drop-in sessions on the Biodiversity Strategy  will be held on:

Thursday 15 February, 5pm-7pm, Room 3 at Kyneton Mechanics Institute, 81 Mollison Street, Kyneton.

Monday 12 February, 6pm-8pm, Lancefield Neighbourhood House, 8 Hamilton Street, Gisborne.

Wednesday 21 February, 6pm-8pm, Lancefield Neighbourhood House, 78 High Street, Lancefield.

Krista will  be following up with individual Landcare and Friend groups to gain their input soon, and will attend the next UCLN General meeting.

EVENTS

FORUM TO LAUNCH CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECT

Come along to the Forum to see how you can become a valuable part of this Citizen Science Project to gather data which will help protect threatened species in our area.

“If you have an interest in understanding native wildlife on your property, then we encourage you to get involved,” said Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson.“You can help us determine whether these species still exist in various locations and if so, how many still occur and whether the populations are secure.”

Senior Threatened Species officer from the Office of Environment and Heritage NSW Dr Todd Soderquist will be sharing his knowledge gleaned from many years of researching and radio tagging Powerful Owls and phascogales in Central Victoria. Also presenting will be Dr Ross Goldingay, an expert on gliders from Southern Cross University and editor of Australian Mammalogy. Ross has pioneered a successful method for gliders to cross major roads safely. Jess Lawton, PhD student from Latrobe University  who is currently conducting research on phascogales in Central Victoria will also be on hand to share her extensive knowledge.
We are hoping landowners who have heard or seen any of these species on their properties come along to the Forum to find out how their presence can be verified and entered into the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas to ensure their protection.

To book call 54219669 or click on this link –  BookForum 

RIVER RESTORATION WORKSHOP

“People will come away from this workshop with practical guidelines for protecting and restoring riparian areas. They will learn the principles of river ecology and river restoration. Riparian areas and floodplain habitats are hot spots of biodiversity as they provide the lifeblood of the ecosystem.” said wetland ecologist Damien Cook, seen here with Angela Gladman from the NCCMA on the Campaspe River at Carlsruhe. Pic Scheltema

Do you have a river, creek or wetland on your property? Would you like to learn from experts how to restore and rehabilitate it? Why not come along to the free River Restoration workshop being held at the beautiful historic Degraves Mill in Carlsruhe.

Bookings essential by calling 54219660 or clicking on RiverRestoration

FARMING FOR SUSTAINABLE SOILS CONFERENCE

When: March 8 & 9, 2018
Where: Capital Theatre Bendigo
RSVP: by Friday 23rd February via https://soils.eventbrite.com.au/ or contact the North Central CMA on (03) 5448 7124

FUTURE FARMING EXPO

WHEN: 8.30AM 21 FEBRUARY 2018
WHERE:DONALD STADIUM

FREE EVENT (INCLUDING LUNCH)
RSVP Is essential to the North Central CMA by Friday
16 February on (03) 5448 7124 or info@nccma.vic.gov.au

SOCIAL MEDIA TRAINING

Facebook 101~Social Media Training
for Landcare Groups

When: Wednesday 21 March, 2018
Where: Rifle Brigade Hotel, Bendigo

NCCMA is hosting a Facebook 101 workshop to enable participants to both upskill and produce an implementation plan for social media, on Wednesday 21 March in Bendigo. Professionally facilitated by Friendly Savage Communications Consultants, this Facebook focused workshop will be presented in three bite-sized sessions. You can choose your preferred workshop or stay all day. Participants should have an existing Facebook profile and a basic knowledge of their phone or computer

For more information and to book please go to https://facebook101forlandcare.eventbrite.com.au or email tess.grieves@nccma.vic.gov.au

LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE

Workshop topics include:

• Social media networking
• How to create engaging video.
• Content planning and best practice.
• Facebook Groups.
• Facebook Overview.
• Social Media Tools.

CHEMICAL USERS TRAINING COURSE

Do you want to learn the skills and confidence to safely and effectively use a range of herbicides, including some targeted herbicides for controlling specific weeds? Then you might be interested in doing a Chemical Users Training course. Please let me know as NCCMA will be offering one soon.

RESOURCES

NORTH CENTRAL CHAT

For the latest edition of the North Central Chat click here:NCChatFeb18

NEW WEED BROCHURES

Learn how to control weeds such as gorse on your property. A new set of brochures are available on weed control in the Mt Alexander Shire area. Pic Scheltema

Metcalfe, Langley and Malmsbury Landcare have worked with the Tarrangower Catus Control Group (TCCG) on a project producing brochures about weed control. Five brochures were created, one specific for each of the five wards within Mt Alexander Shire. The brochures highlight problem weeds in each ward and encourage landowners to manage their weeds by providing essential information.They also provide information about the responsibilities of landowners to manage weeds, the best control methods to use and where to find more detailed information.A digital version is available by clicking on this link – COLIBAN-Weed-Brochure-2018 . Hard copies available from the Mt Alexander Shire Offices.

If you have a neighbor that is not being responsible about their weeds, maybe you could put one in their letter box?

JUNIOR LANDCARE

You can access the latest Junior Landcare newsletter by clicking on this link. JuniorLandcare2018

LANDLINK

The latest Land Link is available here – LandLinkJan18

LANDCARE AUSTRALIA NEWS

For the latest Landcare Australia News click on this link – LandcareAustraliaNews

GRANTS

Is your group hungry for money? Why not apply for a grant from your local council? See details below. Pic Scheltema

 MT ALEXANDER COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM

Applications are now open for Council’s Community Grants Program. Grants of up to $3,000 are available to incorporated and not-for-profit community groups and organisations to support local community-based projects and initiatives that align with Council objectives.

Applications will close on 23 February 2018 at 4pm.

Download the Program Guidelines

Apply now

For additional information about the Community Grants Program, please call 5471 1744 or email grants@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

HEPBURN SHIRE COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM

Community groups are encouraged to apply for funding for events, programs, projects and equipment.  Grants can be sought for amounts up to $2,000.

Prospective applicants must contact a Council Officer prior to submitting an application – refer to guidelines for contact details.

Community Grants Program Guidelines 2017-2018

Apply Here

MACEDON RANGES SHIRE COUNCIL SMALL COMMUNITY GRANTS SCHEMES

The Small Community Grants Scheme supports community projects that are unlikely to be funded through annual funding schemes.They are open throughout the year, except in the lead up to a Council election.More info at this link NextWho can apply?

ABORIGINAL WATER GRANTS PROGRAM  2017/18 

Aboriginal communities’ connection to country is basic to their sense of identity and cultural continuity.Victoria’s waterways are an important part of country that have been damaged by the development of the state’s water resources. There are opportunities to restore this damage and in doing so enhance Aboriginal communities’ well-being. Also, improving Aboriginal Victorian’s access to water resources on country offers important opportunities for economic development. Find out more below.closes Wed. 7 Feb.

How to apply:
1. Download and read the Application Guidelines (PDF, 401.8 KB).
2.        Complete the application form online.

“You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” Dame Goodall- primatologist, ethologist, anthropologist, and UN Messenger of Peace

The nationally endangered White Sunray flower (Leucochrysum albicans subsp.albicans var). Landcare members and others learnt about the importance of protecting our remnant grasslands at a recent UCLN workshop with the ‘Wildflower Whisperer’ Dr Paul Gibson-Roy, lead scientist from Greening Australia. ©Scheltema

• CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECT UNDERWAY FOR UCLN
• KYNETON SECONDARY COLLEGE STUDENTS WIN RESOURCE SMART SCHOOLS AWARD
• EAGLES MONITORED BY PIPERS CREEK LANDCARE
• UCLN BIOLINK PROJECT UPDATE
• THE WILDFLOWER WHISPERER AT NEWHAM HALL.
• NEW VICTORIAN BIODIVERSITY ATLAS APP
• JUVENILE BARKING OWL STEALS THE SHOW
• CONTRIBUTE TO THE HEPBURN SHIRE COUNCIL BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY
• SUCCESSFUL COLLABORATION AT METCALFE
• KYNETON SHOW
• RABBIT UPDATE
• EVENTS
• GRANTS, NEWS AND RESOURCES

CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECT UNDERWAY FOR UCLN

Greater Glider (Petauroides volans), one of the threatened species to be surveyed as part of the UCLN Citizen Science Project funded by the latest Biodiversity Grants ©Scheltema

The UCLN and four of its member groups have been acknowledged for their vital work to protect threatened flora and fauna by being awarded more than $200,000 in funding from the latest round of the state government’s Biodiversity On Ground Action Grants.

All these important projects align with the UCLN Strategic Plan and will help our volunteers continue to work towards protecting our precious environment, including threatened species.

The UCLN received $46,485 to undertake citizen surveys over two years in our region. We will work in conjunction with the environmental officer from Macedon Ranges Shire Council and members of our Landcare and Friends groups to confirm the presence of powerful owls, greater gliders and the brush-tailed phascogale (all of which are listed as vulnerable under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act in Victoria). An experienced project officer will be employed to work alongside community members to conduct the surveys and enter data on these animals into the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas.

The information gathered will help build an important database relating to vulnerable species in our area and therefore be a step towards implementing measures to protect them.

If you are interested in getting involved with this project please save the date for the Forum on the 10th March to launch the project.

Ashbourne Landcare, The Friends of Bald Hill Reserve, The Campaspe River and Land Management Group and Trentham and District  Landcare were also successful in the funding round. For details on their projects go to flora-and-fauna-funds-flow/

KYNETON SECONDARY COLLEGE STUDENTS WIN RESOURCE SMART SCHOOLS AWARD FOR WORK WITH LANDCARE

Kyneton Secondary College was named Biodiversity School Of The Year at the Resource Smart Schools Awards   for their work with the UCLN, Friends of Bald Hill Reserve and Campaspe River and Land Management Group. Students are seen here with with insects from the  traps they constructed to look at the phascogale’s food source at Bald Hill Reserve. ©Scheltema

Kyneton Secondary College won Biodiversity School Of The Year at the Resource Smart Schools Awards. Sustainability Victoria received 150 entries from 87 schools. KSC students have been working with the UCLN and Friends of Bald Hill Reserve collecting data on insect populations at the Bald Hill reserve  in research aimed at  helping preserve populations of the endangered phascogale, as well as planting over 1500 trees along the Campaspe River with the Campaspe Land and River management Group.

By monitoring insect diversity students hoped to identify how the availability of certain foods affected resident phascogales. Sustainability Victoria interim CEO Stephanie Ziersch said the awards showcased what was possible in schools and the wider community. “The awards really are the ultimate ‘show and tell’ and celebrate the achievement of schools across the state who are committed to sustainable action,” she said.

The school  started working with our Network two years ago, and it is wonderful to see them acknowledged in these state wide Awards. Read more about the project in this story published in the Bendigo Advertiser by clicking here :AwardforKSC

A student at Kyneton Secondary College constructing insect traps for installation at Bald Hill Reserve.©Scheltema

EAGLES MONITORED BY PIPERS CREEK LANDCARE

A juvenile wedge tailed eagle on the nest in the Pipers Creek area. ©Scheltema

Pipers Creek Landcare members have been watching a juvenile wedge-tail eagle on the nest, the third time they have observed a a pair breeding in the Pipers Creek/Cobaw area.
Returning to the massive nest built in 2014  the pair, having shared the incubation period of a month, hatched the chick around the 10th September. It first appeared as a white, fluffy chick about the size of a silky hen. Grey pin feathers appeared around a month later and the rufus brown, permanent feathers (pictured) at 2 months of age. The chick now spends considerable time on the nest rim flapping its wings in preparation for its first flight, around mid December.

The female is a huge bird just over a meter tall with a 2.3m wing- span and a talon spread of about 40cm. Her mate is almost black in colour and considerably smaller. He is pictured here  just above the tree canopy being shadowed by a pair of territorial ravens who have a nest in a nearby tree. ©Scheltema

Keep an eye out for three eagles in Kyneton’s North Eastern sky around Christmas and New Year by which time the young chick will be about the size of its father. It will  make its own way in the world about June.

UCLN BIOLINK PROJECT UPDATE

Some of the last remnant grasslands in our Network are being surveyed by ecologists as part of the UCLN biolink project. Seen here is Penny Roberts from Newham and District Landcare with ecologist Karl Just surveying grasslands at Carlsruhe cemetery, which is part of the Cobaw Campaspe Connections Biolink project. ©Scheltema

The UCLN Cobaw Campaspe Connections and Coliban Corridor Biolink projects are now coming towards the end of their second year of funding, with several ecologists being employed recently to survey areas of high conservation values within the biolink areas.

“These projects , which involve Woodend, Newham, Carlsruhe and Ashbourne in the east on Five Mile Creek and the Campaspe River and in the west, Trentham, Tylden and Malmsbury on the Coliban River, represent the network’s first attempt at collaborative landscape-scale projects in support of biodiversity. We are now starting to discuss a further cluster project in the north possibly involving the Malmsbury, Metcalfe, Taradale and Campaspe Valley groups.” said UCLN President Alan Denehey

You can read the action plans on the biolinks produced by our Vice President Dr Sophie Bickford by clicking on about-us/reports/

WILDFLOWER WHISPERER AT NEWHAM HALL

About 45 people gathered recently at Newham Hall at a workshop organised by UCLN to discuss Native pastures.They learnt about how to create them, the importance of remnant grasslands and how we can help preserve them.

Lead scientist with Greening Australia Dr Paul Gibson-Roy (also known as the Wildflower Whisperer) traveled from Sydney to present at a UCLN workshop last week. ©Scheltema

Lead scientist from Greening Australia traveled from Sydney to present the workshop and afterwards participants visited Carlsruhe cemetery to look at native grasslands.  Dr Gibson-Roy co- authored a wonderful book on the subject called “The Land Of Sweeping Plains”.

“The story of Native Grasses is critical to the human race. We have grown as a species to populate this planet on the coat tails of grassy ecosystems;they are fundamental to our story. We can effectively manage and we can reconstruct native grassy landscapes….and if in the end it turns out that we dont commit the will and resources to conserve or restore the environment, such as we do for things that generate wealth or protect us from each other, that will be yet another sad human story for which we would probably pay dearly. But I choose to hope for the better part of our nature and the alternative scenario. Humans are remarkable. We have had a profound negative impact on many species, who have no capacity to articulate for themselves or stop us. But our unique ability to use reason and use it to develop ethics gives us the capacity to understand this fact and act upon it. I truly hope we can accept the responsibility beholden upon us not to destroy a world that supports us and millions of other species.” said Dr Gibson-Roy

To read more click on  the-wildflower-whisperer-to-visit/

NEW VICTORIAN BIODIVERSITY ATLAS APP -VBA Go

Mel Hardy, Senior Biodiversity Curator from DEWLP explains the new VBA Go App, designed to make it easier to enter data on flora and fauna into the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas to President of Friends Of Bald Hill Reserve Carolyn Robb. They are seen here entering a Brooker gum into the Atlas with Rachel Robertson  ©Scheltema

The UCLN has been trialing the new Victorian Biodiversity Atlas App –VBA Go  in conjunction with the Senior Biodiversity Curator from DEWLP. In order to protect the environmental values of our area it is important to record what is there. You can be part of entering important data in your groups area (For example Black Gums to rare orchids, phascogales or whatever your group is monitoring) by learning how to use this simple app.

The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas contains all the collated information of flora and fauna sightings across Victoria. Unfortunately the atlas has a disappointing number of flora and fauna records for the Macedon Ranges.The new app – VBA Go, makes data entry easy. It is a pocket version of the atlas that can be used on smart phones. You can very simply see sightings recorded near you and record a sighting yourself.

An “Introduction to the VBA Go App” workshop will be held at 5 pm on Wednesday the 13^th of December 2017 in the Barringo Room at the Gisborne Shire Offices.

Interested in getting involved? Contact Krista Patterson-Major on 5421 9503 or email kpatterson-majoor@mrsc.vic.gov.au to find out how to register for the atlas and to RSVP for the workshop.

We will be conducting more workshops on using the VBA Go App next year.

Before using the App you first need to  register with the VBA  which you can do  here: biodiversity/victorian-biodiversity-atlas  

JUVENILE BARKING OWL STEALS THE SHOW AT THE CASCADES

A juvenile barking Owl named Skeksi stole the show at a UCLN event at the Cascades in Metcalfe. ©Scheltema

A seven-week-old barking owl named Skeksi stole the show at an Upper Campaspe Landcare event  at the Cascades in Metcalfe recently. Despite being preceded in the display by a spectacular flying Nankeen Kestrel (who delighted the audience by occasionally landing on peoples heads), an Australian hobby and a little eagle, young Skeksi won over the crowd with her inquisitive nature, whole mouse eating ability and neck contortions. The display at the Cascades was held for the landcare community after the UCLN Annual General Meeting.

Barking owls are listed as endangered in Victoria and Martin Scuffins from the Leigh Valley Hawk and Owl Sanctuary spoke of the need to protect the habitat of these and other birds that are in decline.”It’s up to us to protect their habitat. Species minus habitat equals extinction.We don’t own the environment, it belongs to these creatures as well.” said Martin.

CONTRIBUTE TO THE HEPBURN SHIRE COUNCIL BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY

If your group falls within the Hepburn Shire Council boundaries you may be interested in having input into the HSC’s draft Biodiversity Strategy. On Thursday 7 December there will be an open workshop for groups to have input into the Strategy.  The draft strategy proposes to involve landcare groups – so if you are able to attend and provide input that would be great.
Thursday 07 December – 2pm to 4pm
Daylesford Senior Citizens Centre

You can see the  DRAFT Biodiversity Strategy 2017-2021 here :Hepburn-Shire-Council-Biodiversity-Strategy-DRAFT-October-2017-1.pdf
To register your interest or for more information contact Justin Fiddes, Manager Planning on 5348 2306 or email jfiddes@hepburn.vic.gov.au   Read a story about the issue in the Daylesford paper here: share-your-thoughts-on-biodiversity

SUCCESSFUL COLLABORATION AT METCALFE

A successful collaboration between Landmate,  Metcalfe Landcare and the CFA  resulted in a large amount of gorse control at the Cascades. Pic Michael Nott

KYNETON SHOW

Some of the many visitors who visited the Landcare Stall at Kyneton Show to receive their free plant and learn about Landcare in the District.

The UCLN was at Kyneton Show again this year and there was a lot of interest in Landcare activities in our district. Brendan Smith from Tylden Landcare was kept busy giving away native plants as part of the Show bags. He also provided plants to Lady Brookes Kindergarten in Kyneton as part of a Junior Landcare Grant Project.

Lady Brookes Kindergarten was a recipient of a Junior Landcare grant which enable them to plant native species and construct a sensory garden. ©Scheltema

RABBIT UPDATE

The UCLN recently ran a Rabbit Busters workshop well attended by over 53 people.

John Matthews, biosecurity officer with Agriculture Victoria, spoke about the new RHDV1 K5 rabbit virus and explained how to maximize the impact of the release and help reduce rabbit numbers on your property. Landowners gained an understanding on appropriate use of the new virus and how to obtain it. “The combination of an improved biological control agent in RHDV1K5, community led rabbit management, and using best practice rabbit management principles, should provide opportunity to manage and maintain rabbit numbers at low levels.” said Mr Matthews.

Mr Matthews also provided information on the latest local, state, and national evaluation of the establishment, spread and impact of the virus, including where the virus has established, where it has spread and what level of impact it is having.

A good time to release the virus is at the end of summer. Why not coordinate with your neighbors to purchase and release it if rabbits are a problem in your area?

How can I purchase a vial of RHDV1 K5 virus?

RHDV1 K5 is available to purchase at $120 per vial plus postage and packaging from the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute by contacting Alison Jugow via email: alison.jugow@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Please include the following details in your purchase request:

• Your name
• Postal address
• Email address
• Contact phone number
• Number of vials to be purchased
• Date of when vials are needed.

More info on how to use at http://www.pestsmart.org.au/boosting-rabbit-biocontrol-rhdv-k5-national-release/ or contact John Matthews from Agriculture Victoria john.matthews@ecodev.vic.gov.au

EVENTS

• CELEBRATE WORLD SOIL HEALTH DAY ON 5TH DEC

“Soil is the key to all health and knowing about your soil empowers you to manage it more sustainably. Attendees will go home knowing more about their soil and what to do to maintain good soil.” said Martin Hamilton, one of the presenters on the day at the upcoming Soil Health Workshop. ©Scheltema

Why not celebrate World Soil Health Day by coming along to a Soil Health Workshop organised by UCLN at an Olive Farm at Edgecombe on Tuesday 5th December?

Experts such as Martin Hamilton, Rebecca Mitchell and Dr Helen Hayden from Agriculture Victoria will be presenting. Dr Hayden has over 20 years experience working in soil biology and plant pathology in many different agricultural industries and in native ecosystems.

“Many landowners are generally aware of the soil chemical and physical constraints that can affect their paddocks and limit crop yields, but soils also have a biological component that plays an important role in soil health,” Dr Hayden said. “In the workshop we will uncover why biology is so important for healthy soil, caring for the environment and getting the best out of our farming land.” said Dr Helen Hayden

Participants will learn how to evaluate the condition of their soil and apply appropriate management practices to ensure soil health. Lunch is provided. To read more about the workshop click here Soil Health

Click here to book   SoilHealthBooking       Ring   5421 9660 or Send Email to book.

• LEARN HOW TO MAKE NEST BOXES

Learn how to make nest boxes at this workshop organised by MRSC on Saturday 9th December

• INVITATION TO VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT

• AUSTRALIAN CITIZEN SCIENCE ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE

7-9 February 2018 in Adelaide -bringing together citizen science practitioners, participants, thought leaders and decision makers for the #CitSciOz18. Featuring international keynote speakers Dr. Caren Cooper and Amy Robinson Sterling, along with Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr. Alan Finkel and Eureka prize winner Dr. Emilie Ens, the aim of the conference is to showcase best practice in citizen science and share project outcomes from across Australia and the world! More information

• UCLN CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECT LAUNCH -MARCH 10TH NEWHAM HALL

Come along to the launch of the UCLN Citizen Science project to survey for Greater Gliders, Powerful owls and Phascogales. Learn from experts such as Senior Threatened Species Officer Todd Soderquist from NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (Formally NSW National Parks), who has a wealth of knowledge on Powerful Owls and phascogales.

GRANTS

• SMART FARMS SMALL GRANTS

• CLIMATE CHANGE INNOVATION GRANTS

•   NORMAN WETTENHALL SMALL ENVIRONMENTAL GRANT SCHEME

•  LANDLINK

Click here to read the latest Landlink publication  Landlink Nov2017

• LANDCARE IN FOCUS

And for yet more Landcare news the latest Landcare in Focus can be read here : LandcareInFocus

• DECEMBER NORTH CENTRAL CHAT

Click here for the latest North Central Chat NCChat

” Vision without action is but a dream. Action without vision is a waste of energy. But vision with action can move mountains.”

Lao-Tze

“Our vision is that instead of looking at blackberries and willows and other weeds, there will be a view that reflects the way the river environment existed before European settlement.” said Michael Kearney from Trentham and District Landcare, seen here on the Coliban River. ©Scheltema

Welcome to our Spring Edition of the UCLN ENews. As usual, as the chill of winter fades and the spring wildflowers appear there are many events and workshops on offer in the Landcare community, from a wonderful  talk on birdsong to an open day on Holistic Farm Management. I hope you enjoy reading about some of the UCLN member groups achievements, and find something that interests you to attend this spring in our beautiful region.

• STUDENTS HELP RESTORE RIVER HEALTH
• AWARDS SUCCESS
• VISION FOR THE COLIBAN RIVER
• NEW UCLN/ASHBOURNE BROCHURES OUT NOW
• TYLDEN LANDCARE AIMS FOR HEALTHY LITTLE COLIBAN
• NORTH CENTRAL LANDCARE FORUM
• RAPTORS AT METCALF
• WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS
• GRANTS

STUDENTS HELP RESTORE RIVER HEALTH

Jaimeson and Maela from Kyneton Secondary College planting on the Campaspe River with the Campaspe River and Land Management Group on National School Trees Days. ©Scheltema

Kyneton Secondary College students took part in National School Trees Day  and joined  the Campaspe River and Land Management Group to plant about 500 trees and shrubs along the Campaspe River. Teacher Anwyn Chapman said it was a great opportunity for students to leave their desks, get outside and learn how to care for our environment. “By taking part in activities such as this, they learn about the important role nature plays in the life of our planet and why we must protect it. As Albert Einstein said, ‘Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better’.” Ms Chapman said.

More than 2500 schools get involved in School Trees Day each year, Australia’s largest tree planting and nature care event.

President of Campaspe River Land Management group Peter Harding said the group was delighted to have students from Kyneton Secondary College again helping with revegetation works along the Campapse River. “Our ongoing work along this river is helping restore the health of the Campaspe and bring back threatened species such as the hairy anchor plant.”  To read the story in the Midland Express click on Restoring River Health

AWARDS SUCCESS

The Victorian Landcare Awards were recently announced. We congratulate the tireless Penny Roberts for her wonderful work with  Newham Landcare  for being commended in the Australian Government Individual Landcare Award.

The inspiring Penny Roberts from Newham and District Landcare was recently commended in the Victorian Landcare Awards. She is seen here alongside one of the many projects she has initiated. ©Scheltema

 

I am pleased to announce that the UCLN was a semi finalist in the 2017 Regional Achievement and Community Awards for the Environmental Sustainability Awards. Well done to all of the volunteers who work hard to achieve their groups goals.

UCLN members should congratulate themselves for being Semi Finalists in the Regional Achievement and Community Awards.                                                                                                                                                                               ©Scheltema

VISION FOR THE COLIBAN RIVER

 Michael Kearney from Trentham and District Landcare seen here at Enders Bridge on the Coliban River, Trentham. The group has been hard at work restoring the health of the Coliban as part of their long term vision for the area.                                                        ©Scheltema

Here is the recently completed excellent Ashbourne Landcare brochure.

TYLDEN LANDCARE AIMS FOR HEALTHY LITTLE COLIBAN

Thanks to a Victorian Landcare Grant Tylden Landcare has been busy carrying out river rehabilitation works along the Little Coliban River in conjunction with Bendigo TAFE students, Tylden Primary School Students and community members. The project has a clear objective: to improve the quality and extent of native vegetation along the Little Coliban River. This project also aligns with the UCLN Coliban Connections Biolink project, involving Trentham, Malmsbury and Tylden Landcare working to restore connectivity between areas of remnant vegetation .

TAFE students have been helping to rehabilitate the area, with students writing a management plan for the site. Tylden Primary School Students have been propagating and planting tube stock, and alongside community members helping to weed and plant along the river.

Bendigo TAFE student James Stewart helping Tylden Landcare  at the Little Coliban River “The Little Coliban River is facing threats from a lack of native vegetation and invasive species such as Crack Willow, Blackberry and Gorse. These impact river health and are a high priority to repair”. Pic Brendan Smith

Bendigo TAFE student James Stewart was at the river recently to assist with re vegetation and said – “The Little Coliban River is facing threats from a lack of native vegetation and invasive species such as Crack Willow, Blackberry and Gorse. These impact river health and are a high priority to repair”.

“This is a rehabilitation project rather than a restoration project. It will take decades to become a self-sustaining ecosystem. A local threatened species- the Hairy Anchor Plant is establishing well and bank stability has also increased”. James added.

Tylden Landcare has been prioritising woody weed control and revegetation programs to increase the density of native vegetation and encourage native fauna.

NORTH CENTRAL LANDCARE FORUM

“Sharing the Landcare Story”

Learn from the Landcare community, get new ideas, and form new contacts at the North Central Landcare Forum at St Arnauds in October. ©Scheltema

Registrations are open for the first regional landcare forum, co-hosted by the new peak landcare organisation in Victoria, Landcare Victoria Inc. (LVI)to be held at

Camp Seed, Stuart Mill, St Arnaud 6th – 8th October 2017.

Download the Program here

An enthusiastic band of North Central landcare members have worked with LVI to organise two full days of sharing and learning. The event will feature a poster display and discussion of landcare activities from across the region and state, and the option to join a bus trip on the Saturday afternoon. This is a great opportunity for networking within the Landcare community, and its free!

If your group wishes to share their landcare stories as part of the poster display please let me know.

Click here to register for the forum now.

The event is fully catered for and is free for landcare members and their partners. Please BYO drinks

Contact Kaye Rodden (LVI – Dep Chair) at nidgee@reachnet.com.au  for more  information.

Registrations close 27^th September.

RAPTORS AT METCALF

A Southern Boobook owl, one of the Birds of Prey and Raptors from the Leigh Valley Hawk and Owl Sanctuary.  ©Scheltema

Ever wanted to get up close and personal to a raptor? If you come along to the Raptors Display at Metcalf after the UCLN AGM on 31st October 2017  you can. The Leigh Valley Hawk and Owl Sanctuary will give a one hour presentation introducing approximately  5 Birds of Prey and will discuss the need for conservation, prevention of extinction and sustainable living.

Meet at the Metcalf Hall at 2.15. You are also welcome to attend the UCLN AGM at 12.30.

WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS

• Rabbit Busters – 20th October 2017, 1-3 pm, Red Brick Hall 23 Yaldwyn St west  Kyneton
  Learn  how to successfully use the new RHDV1 K5 virus to eradicate rabbits with John Mathews from DEDJTR.  Contact RabbitBook , 5421 9660 or Send Email to book.
• Chilean Needlegrass Workshop  Saturday November 11th Carlsruhe CFA Three Chain Rd Carlsruhe  10 am  -2 pm. Learn how to identify and control this high impact agricultural and environmental weed from an agricultural scientist. Presented by Macedon Ranges Shire Council in partnership with Carlsruhe and Newham & District Landcare Groups. Lunch provided. Contact NeedleGrassBook , 5421 9660 or Send Email to book.
• Landcare Display at the Kyneton Show – 18th November, Kyneton.
  Come along and meet fellow Landcarers and speak to the public about how to get involved in Landcare in the district. We are looking for volunteers to help with the UCLN stall so please let me know on uclandcare@gmail.com  if you are able to help.
• Wildflower Walk 10 am 19th November. Conglomerate Gully Riddells Creek. NDLG Roadside Management Group invites members and guests to spend a couple of hours in the morning to discover the wildflowers in a  contrasting environment to that typical of the Macedon Ranges. The walk will conclude with tea and cake. Dogs are welcome on leads only. Sturdy footwear is essential. Please indicate if you are interesting in attending by contacting Sue Massie smassie@ozemail.com.au for directions.
• Native Pastures for Grazing – 22nd November 2017, 10 -3 pm  Newham Hall.
  Learn from Greening Australia’s lead Scientist Dr Paul Gibson-Roy about native pastures for grazing. Lunch and field trip provided. Contact Pasturesbooking or Send Email to book.
• “What can we learn from listening to nature?” November 24th 2017 Evening presentation by Andrew Skeoch of Listening Earth (www.listeningearth.com ) on birds and birdsong. Newham Mechanics Institute. 7 pm for 7.30. Supper follows. RSVP to Sue Massie smassie@ozemail.com.au or tel.5427 0795.

• Soil Health – Tuesday 5th December 2017, 10.30-1 pm, Langley.
  Join the experts on an olive plantation at Langley to learn how to gain a better understanding of soil on your property. Learn how to evaluate the condition of your soil and apply appropriate management practices to improve soil health.  Presenters Martin Hamilton (EcoDev DEDJTR), Rebecca Mitchell (co author of the Soil Health Guide), and Helen Haydon (Soil Microbiologist from Dep Ag Melbourne). Lunch Provided  SoilHealthBooking        5421 9660 or Send Email to book.

• Holistic Management Open Gate Farm Tour 20th October 10.30 -3.00pm Sidonia

Come and see first hand how Sidonia Beef Farmer Sam White is using holistic management principles to  plan rotational grazing, improve soil health, grow more grass  and boost animal performance. This event  has limited numbers.To apply please complete Expression of Interest Form available at  www.gbcma.vic.gov.au or contact  Darren Bain Regional Landcare Facilitator on 03 54401893 or  0419560348 or darren.bain@nccma.vic.gov.au  . EOIs to be submitted by 10 am  Monday 25th  September.

• River Restoration – March 18 2018, 10-2 pm, Degraves Mill Carlsruhe.
  Join wetland restoration experts Damien Cook, Elaine Bayes, Angela Gladman, and experienced Landcarers at the historic Degraves Mill to learn about successful river restoration and the concepts of biolinks. You will also learn from property owner Steve Marriot about his successful long term river restoration project.Lunch provided.

• Wetland Ecology and Training Courses: October 2017 – March 2018

Registrations are now open for Rakali’s popular wetland courses commencing October 2017 through to March 2018. The courses are presented by SERA 2016 award winning ecologist Damien Cook and Elaine Bayes. Don’t hold off as the NEW courses may be a once off depending on level of attendance and it’s the last time the Wetland Read more..

• Sustainable House Open Day

Baynton Sidonia Landcare has asked me to let you know about the upcoming Alternative Technology Association’s Sustainable House Open Day Sunday, September 17, 2017 10.00am – 4.00pm at Clearwind (between Kyneton and Heathcote).

• CAMPASPE CARP CATCH DAY 15th October

If you enjoy fishing why not come along to this family friendly fishing event  organised by NCCMA .

GRANTS

Community Skills Development Grants

Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy, Environment & Climate Change recently announced the availability of $600,000 in grant funds for Community Skills Development projects. The grants are intended to enable volunteer groups and networks to invest in training and development to increase their collective skills.

In announcing the grants, the Minister said ‘A total of $600,000 is available to strengthen and support Landcare, the Friends Of network, Coastcare and other environmental volunteer groups in the important work they do. Individual groups will be eligible for $5,000 grants while networks and partnership groups will be eligible for up to $20,000.’

The Minister’s Media release can be found here communityskillsgrants and details of the grants, including the guidelines, here grantdetails/guidelines . Applications close on 12th October 2017.

Wettenhall Environment Trust Small Environmental Grant

The Small Environmental Grant Scheme will provide support for people undertaking projects that will make a positive difference to the natural living environment, in land, sea or air, rural or urban.
The application forms, guidelines and data required for applying can be found online at: Wettenhall grant

Victorian Rabbit Action Network Small Community Grants

The Victorian Rabbit Action Network (VRAN) has released small grants to community groups to develop and lead rabbit management action plans to better establish K5 into the future. Keep up to date with these opportunities through the VRAN website: https://rabbitaction.com/about/ 

JUNIOR LANDCARE INFO

Please click here Junior Landcare  if you are interested in Junior Landcare information.

September 201 7 North Cental Chat is out now click here –  Sep17Chat

This issue features an article by Regional Landcare Facilitator Tess Grieves on  “How can Landcare attract new people, and free up more time for our current, overworked members” which raises some interesting points.