“Very great change starts from very small conversations, held among people who care.” 

Margaret Wheatley

Winter is here and so are the fungi. ©Scheltema

Welcome to our Winter Enews. So many fantastic Landcare projects have happened because people got together and had conversations. Read about some of the great work happening in our Network in this ENews. Dont forget to have a look at resources available and some wonderful events coming up.

• TREES FOR MUM SUCCESS
• RIVER DETECTIVES PROGRAM BEGINS AT TRENTHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL
• INSECT CATCHING COLLABORATION AT BALD HILL RESERVE
• FOTCR COMPLETES THE WOMBAT LOOP.
•  SAVE THE DATE ! BIRDS OF PREY AT THE CASCADES.
• K5-RHDV1 FOR RABBIT CONTROL
• EVENTS
• AVAILABLE GRANTS
• NEWS AND RESOURCES

TREES FOR MUM SUCCESS

Approximately 850 trees and other plants were planted by UCLN member groups on Mothers Day, a wonderful way to commemorate mums.

Woodend Landcare and the Campaspe River and Land Management Group held tree planting events along the Five Mile Creek and Campaspe River this Mothers Day. Over 850 trees were planted and lots of mums lovingly commemorated! A great effort all round. Stay tuned for a Fathers Day planting event this year. CR+LMG also planted a further 400 plants along the river on World Environment Day with students from the Kyneton Secondary College. Teacher Anwyn Chapman said “It’s so exciting seeing this wonderful tree planting relationship continuing to further improve the health of the Campapse River at Kyneton.”

Over 400 plants went in the ground at a recent planting day on the Campaspe River with Kyneton Secondary College students assisting the CRLMG.

And more news from the river at Kyneton – “Following the 22 years of work the Campaspe River and Land Management Group has put into preparing the ground for a rudimentary gravel path along the Campaspe River, council has recognised the value of The River Walk for the community. The new cement paving designed to replace the gravel along part of the existing River Walk will be constructed as part of the Council’s Healthy Community Objectives.This will enable the entire community to use The River Walk for cycling, running, walking and general enjoyment of the Campaspe River environs.” said President of the CR+LMG Peter Harding.

Well done to all volunteers in this group for guiding council’s plans for this beautiful stretch of the Campaspe River and for their continued weed removal and revegetation along the river banks

RIVER DETECTIVES PROGRAM BEGINS AT TRENTHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL

The excellent River Detectives program has begun at Trentham Primary School thanks to volunteer Lois Blackhirst. Said Lois  “The Trentham students are so lucky to have a stream running right past their school. Even though it looks a little muddy our school scientists found it to be a healthy waterway. We even identified a couple of waterbugs which is a sign of a living and well balanced environment”. 

River Detectives volunteer Lois Blackhirst helps out Cooper with a sample from Trent Creek Trentham.“River Detectives is such a valuable program that allows schools across the state to head to their local waterway, engage with their local environment and learn skills in testing water quality which they report through an interactive portal.” said Brad Drust , NCCMA CEO.

Malmsbury Landcare is also involved with the excellent River Detectives Program at their local Primary School.

Students  were anointed as ‘river detectives’ after they were introduced to a new program allowing them to keep track of the health of our waterways.

The keen students are now able to take readings on the water quality and the habitat from their local waterways and log the data on an interactive portal.

Through that online portal, the budding citizen scientists have been teaching themselves about waterways and the effect poor river health can have on the greater environment.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas recently joined eager Malmsbury Primary School students to announce the expansion of Victoria’s first online waterway education tool. Mary-Anne Thomas said “The River Detectives Program is an excellent example of connecting rivers, landscapes and people, particularly our younger generation. I am excited to see the almost 5000 students heading out to monitor their local waterway and record valuable data about its health.”

A student tests water quality at Trent Creek as part of the River Detectives program.

INSECT CATCHING COLLABORATION AT BALD HILL RESERVE

Students from Kyneton Secondary College collecting insect traps they installed at the Bald Hill Reserve. Their work is part of a joint project between MRSC, UCLN, and the Friends of Bald Hill Reserve to find out more about the food source of phascogales at the Reserve.

Kyneton Secondary College  students visited Bald Hill Reserve recently to collect insect traps that they installed at the reserve. The project is part of a collaboration between the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the Friends of Bald Hill Reserve to conduct field studies on insect populations, the major food source of the vulnerable phascogale which is found at Bald Hill Reserve.

The students designed, built, and installed the insect traps in order to collect data regarding the availability of the phascogales food source at Bald Hill Reserve.

Phascogales are a ‘keystone’ species at Bald Hill Reserve, which means they give an indication of the health of the ecosystem there. The destruction of native forests and woodlands in Central Victoria has led to the decline of many native animal populations, including the phascogale.

The students are trialing three different types of traps and collecting data for Macedon Ranges Shire Council environmental officer William Terry. William said “Invertebrates are the key to understanding the health of the natural environment here at the reserve. They make up a huge amount of the food resources within the reserve for our birds, mammals, reptiles and frogs. They are also important for the pollination of flowering plants –including the threatened flax lily. The students are working with council to help us determine the most effective methods for the collection of invertebrates in the reserve.”

Student Lily Wickham said “I’m enjoying studying the vulnerable phascogale and its environment. We are comparing the insect population at the reserve in areas that have been affected by fires and logging to areas that have older trees. We’re trying to work out the best way to set up a study to look at the phascogales food source.We’re also trying to  understand what the threats are to its food source.”

The students will be analyzing the data and working with a visiting entomologist to better understand the role insects play in the ecosystem at Bald Hill Reserve.

Sam Habib checks a insect trap students from Kyneton Secondary College installed at Bald Hill Reserve.

An exciting find was made recently at Bald Hill Reserve -a Brown Toadlet (listed under the FFG as a threatened species). It has been predicted that the Brown Toadlet is in significant decline, at a rate of less than or equal to 30% over ten years (IUCN 2006). Detection of the Brown Toadlet at Bald Hill Reserve was significant as it had not been recorded in the area for over 20 years. Lets hope the Friends of Bald Hill is successful in their recent grant application which will help this and other species.

An exciting find at Bald Hill -The endangered brown toadlet. Pic William Terry.

 FRIENDS OF TRENTHAM CREEKS AND RESERVES COMPLETES WOMBAT LOOP

The wonderful Wombat loop is now open, completing the Wombat Trail, an initiative of the Friends of Trentham Creeks and Reserves (and the Trentham Public Reserves Committee of Management).

The most recent group to join the UCLN, the Friends of Trentham Creeks and Reserves, has  overcome many hurdles to complete a long term project to create a walking track along Stoney Creek in Trentham. The 9 km trail, which links 4 reserves in Trentham now includes a previously inaccessible area of Stoney Creek, thanks to the persistent hard work of the group. Andy Robertson, a member of the FOTCR said “After two years of negotiation, planning and bloody hard work, our reward is seeing the regeneration of a weed infested, neglected, cattle damaged riparian area. We’ve now got blackwoods, garnia, lepidsperma, lomandra, and other native species regenerating.”

The group received funding three years ago through a DEWLP Local Landscape Enhancement Grant.Why not take a walk amongst the blackwoods alongside the creek this winter and enjoy this delightful trail. Brochures are available from Trentham Neighborhood Center, the Tourist Information Center and shops in town.

 SAVE THE DATE! BIRDS OF PREY AT THE CASCADES FOR UCLN AGM.

Come and learn about these magnificent creatures on October 31st at the UCLN AGM at Metcalf.

Save the date on October 31st and come along to our AGM event at the Cascades in Metcalf. We will be having a wonderful demonstration by the Leigh Valley Hawk and Owl Sanctuary. Their aim is to provide inspiring demonstrations based on the principals of ecology and environmental science,  emphasising the urgent need for the conservation of  biodiversity, the prevention of extinction and sustainable living. Come and learn about the adaptions these remarkable creatures utilize in their predatory way of life. More info closer to the date.

K5-RHDV1 VIRUS FOR RABBIT CONTROL

Learn how to effectively control rabbits using the new K5-RHDV1 virus

Vials of K5-RHDV1 calicivirus for release are available from the NSW Department of Primary Industries, Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute.

To order the K5 vials you just need to send an email to Alison Jugow (alison.jugow@dpi.nsw.gov.au), Ph 02 4640 6012, letting her know how many vials, delivery address and contact details.

The cost of the RHDV K5 vials is $120.00 per vial and the cost of freight is $50.00. These prices are GST exclusive.

Instructions for bait preparation and bait laying are available at  http://www.pestsmart.org.au/bait-delivery-of-rhdv/

•  This is apparently enough to bait 10 kilos of carrots,or 5 kilos of oats

• You then put it on the bait in a populated area (this amount might be enough for a few properties),and re bait a couple of days apart.
• It is best not to use when rabbits are lactating -which is apparently now. They suggested starting early next autumn. It needs flies to spread it.
• Best not use with young rabbits as they are immune to it.Best not too use spring, or summer.
• 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

The UCLN will be holding an information session with John Mathews on October 20th so put it in your diary if you want to learn more about how to effectively control rabbits on your property.

GRANTS

ROUND THREE 20 MILLION TREES

Round Three of the Australian Government’s 20 Million Trees was launched on 19 June. This is the final round of the 20 Million Trees Competitive Grants.

$6 million is available for grants between $20,000 and $100,000 for tree planting projects that will support EPBC listed Threatened Ecological Communities and Threatened Species. Individuals and groups can apply for projects on both public and private land.

Applications close: 15 August 2017.

Guidelines, application form and other useful information is available from the Australian Government’s website.

NORMAN WETTENHALL SMALL ENVIRONMENTAL GRANT SCHEME

New Round Opens 20th June 2017
The current round of Norman Wettenhall small environmental grants is now open. The grants provide support for groups or individuals undertaking projects that will make a positive difference to the natural living environment, in land, sea or air, rural or urban.
At the moment Norman Wettenhall are looking for projects around flora and fauna conservation, threatened mammal conservation, and landscape restoration and education.
New round opens – 20th June 2017 – August 2017. (The round will be closed when the maximum number of applications has been reached.)
For further information or to apply click here – http://nwf.org.au/grants/small-environmental-grants/

FRRR FOUNDATION FOR RURAL & REGIONAL RENEWAL – OPEN GRANTS

FRRR has a number of grants that open at different times of the year

.http://frrr.org.au/grants/2017_CPPW_grants.php

AUSTRALIAN ETHICAL INVESTMENT AND SUPER, COMMUNITY GRANTS

A community grants program that provides financial support to new, emerging or small not-for-profit organisations that contribute to humanitarian, environmental, and animal welfare efforts in Australia and abroad. Supporting projects between $10,000 – $20,000 that deliver tangible outcomes in alignment with the organisations charter.
For more information go to – https://www.australianethical.com.au/community-grants/

YOUNG FARMERS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Up to $10,000 towards training or study (upskill) to invest on-farm or in professional development (invest), putting new skills into practice.
For further information go to –

SCHOLARSHIP

 THE R E ROSS TRUST GRANTS – VIC

The grants work around 4 impact areas. For Landcare groups the most relevant area is impact area D; the protection and preservation of Australian Flora and Fauna. Organisations must first submit an expression of interest for consideration by the Trustees and may then by invited to submit a full application. Applications are considered all year round. For more information go to: http://www.rosstrust.org.au/grants/apply-for-a-grant/  

EVENTS

FARM VISIT- HEMP GROWING.

• Trentham Landcare has organised a  Farm visit on the 2nd July in the afternoon –  Bunjil Farm,licensed Hemp grower.(Please note Milking Yard Flat visit cancelled.)

Events

WETLAND ECOLOGY MANAGEMENT COURSE WITH DAMIAN COOK AND ELAINE BAYES

If you are interested in  Wetland Ecology and Management you may be interested in these courses.

Click on link below for more info.

    Two NEW Wetland Ecology and Management Units are coming up this spring

• • UNIT 1: The Wonderful Wetland Ecology Bus Tour, 12 & 13 Oct 2017 
  • UNIT 2: Wetland Restoration and Management, 16 & 17 Nov 2017 

The Wetland Plant Identification Course commencing mid October 2017

“Fantastic introduction to wetland vegetation and ecology.  If I can do the course and identify plants afterwards, anyone can! ”      

Greg Fletcher, Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority.

See website for session outline, field guide provided, evaluations etc.

For more information go to http://rakali.com.au/education-and-training

RESOURCES

LATEST LANDCARE LANDLINK

Landlink June2017

VICTORIAN LANDCARE AND CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE

CLICK HERE to view Issue 69 of the Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management magazine, which is a special feature on climate change.

NORTH CENTRAL CHAT

 

NEW CLIMATE CHANGE RESOURCE

The Climate Ready Natural Resource Management Planning  portal provides a common platform to access climate change adaptation planning for natural resource management across Victoria and was funded by the Australian Government.

This project developed spatial tools to assess climate change vulnerability across the state, pioneered adaptation pathways planning in the state, undertook extensive engagement with the community and key stakeholders on climate change adaptation, and produced the most comprehensive natural resource management climate change adaptation planning to date in Victoria. The work also provided guidance on carbon farming priorities within the regions.
To visit this portal, please visit http://www.nrmclimate.vic.gov.au/

Access weather and climate resources on line ©Scheltema

WEATHER AND CLIMATE RESOURCE

For short sharp seasonal forecast outlooks go to www.agriculture.vic.gov.au From there you can subscribe to The Fast Break newsletter which will give you rainfall and temperature predictions as well as other information.It also has links to monthly YouTube clips summarizing Victorian rainfall and giving seasonal outlooks.The YouTube clips cover stored soil moisture levels, crop growing conditions and the latest climate risk information for Victoria. In a recent survey 90% of farmers said these resources had improved their ability to manage seasonal variability and risk.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT LAW TRAINING WEBINARS

Not-for-profit Law regularly runs webinars on a variety of topics that affect community organisations. You can attend this training using your computer from wherever you may be located. Registering for each webinar is essential. For more information or to register click here – webinars. Slides from previous sessions are also available.

Working with Volunteers – Key Legal Issues! – Wednesday 5 July
This webinar will cover the key legal issues your organisation needs to consider when working with volunteers and other types of unpaid workers, and give you some useful tools and tips on how to meet your obligations.

• PLANT A TREE FOR MUM
• METCALF LANDCARE CARES FOR CASCADES
• SENIOR CONSERVATION BOTANIST AT BLACK HILL RESERVE
• UCLN MEMBER GROUPS JOIN FORCES ON BIOLINK PROJECT
• PLANTING BEGINS AT TRENT CREEK
• TYLDEN GORSE CONTROL FIELD DAY
• GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
• EVENTS
• NORTH CENTRAL CHAT AND MORE

Welcome to our April ENews. It’s wonderful to see the beautiful autumn colors  in the Central Highlands, and the recent heavy rains have soaked the ground well for the planting many of you will be doing at this time of the year.This ENews has lots of fantastic events plus news from our member groups and grant opportunities.

“Very great change starts from very small conversations, held among people who care.”  said Margaret Wheatley. I know many of you are translating those conversations into action on the ground, creating a better environment for all of us.

PLANT A TREE FOR MUM THIS MOTHERS DAY

Plant a tree this Mothers Day to honour your mum.You can join in with Woodend Landcare or the Campaspe River and land Management groupon the 14th May.

What better way to honour your mum this Mothers Day than to leave a living legacy in the form of an indigenous plant.

You can do so by joining in with either Woodend Landcare or the Campaspe Land and River Management Group on the 14th May.Bring waterproof shoes and gloves.

KYNETON

WHERE: Kyneton Botanic Gardens ( enter KBG via tourist dr off Mollison st, drive 200 mtrs to where cars parked.Walk towards Railway Wier 200 mtrs downstream Mollison St bridge.Follow signs.)

WHEN:Sunday 14th May 9.30 to 12.00pm (stay for 30 mins or 2 hours).

MORNING TEA PROVIDED TO SUSTAIN PLANTERS AND MAINTAIN ENERGY!

contact Peter Harding 0419625600 for more info

WOODEND

WHERE:Lake Earnshaw,behind Gilbert Gordon Oval

WHEN:Sunday 14th May 9am -12 pm

METCALF LANDCARE CARES FOR CASCADES

The beautiful Cascades,where Metcalf Landcare has been removing woody weeds. ©Scheltema

Metcalf Landcare has been busy improving the health of the beautiful Coliban River at the Cascades by  undertaking ongoing woody weed removal and creating habitat and  nest boxes for phascogales.

Metcalf Landcare secretary Deb Farmer on the banks of the Coliban River. The group is mapping and planning weed removal including gorse seen here on the riverbanks.                                                                                                             ©Scheltema

SENIOR CONSERVATION BOTANIST AT BLACK HILL RESERVE

Hear from senior conservation botanist at Royal Botanic Gardens  Neville Walsh at Black Hill Reserve on native plant recovery post fires.                                                                                                           ©Scheltema

This is a rare opportunity to hear from a leading authority on native plant recovery.

WHAT : SENIOR CONSERVATION BOTANIST PRESENTING AUDIO VISUAL / WALK AND TALK AT BLACK HILL RESERVE

WHEN: 10 am WALK AND TALK BLACK HILL RESERVE 2.30 – 4.00 pm KYNETON MECHANICS HALL  SATURDAY 13TH MAY

WHERE: BLACK HILL RESERVE ROTUNDA 10 am, KYNETONS MECHANICS HALL 2.30PM 

Neville Walsh,  Senior Conservation Botanist at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, will talk to the Friends of Black Hill regarding post fire recovery and other matters.

Neville will talk about recovery of various plant species from fire, especially high-plains and alpine tree species after the fires 15 years ago, as well as unusual species that only appear post-fire.

Neville started working at the National Herbarium of Victoria in 1977.

He has worked on recovery strategies for endangered species

• genus Pomaderrisin the family Rhamnaceae,
• buttercup family (Ranunculaceae),
• grasses (Poaceae),
• the Boronia family (Rutaceae),
• the daisy family (Asteraceae),
• Lobelia and its Australian relatives in the Campanulaceae.

He is a member of the recovery team for the endangered Helmeted Honeyeater. He co-edited the 4-volume “Flora of Victoria.”  (Every home should have one)

Neville manages the Victorian Conservation Seedbank since 2005.He specialises in the taxonomy and ecology of alpine species is seeking to understand the nature of invasion of non-native species in alpine areas around the world.

An impressive number of Australian plant species like Pomaderris Walshii  strut their stuff with his name attached .

Please contact Alan Todd at  alan_todd@westnet.com.au or 0400502325 for more info.

Learn how native species are recovering from the Black Hill fires.                                                        Pic Scheltema

UCLN MEMBER GROUPS JOIN FORCES ON BIOLINK PROJECT.

Seven Landcare groups within the UCLN are working together to protect biodiversity on two biolink projects:the Coliban Connections and the Cobaw Campaspe Connections. President of the UCLN Alan  Denehy and Woodend President Kate Daniel are seen here at the Coliban Connections biolink area.                                                                                    ©Scheltema

Progress is continuing on the UCLN Biolink projects  seven Landcare groups (Ashbourne, Malmsbury, Trentham, Tylden, Carlsruhe, Woodend and Newham)beginning planning.

The groups aim is to restore connectivity between areas of remnant vegetation so as to create corridors for the movement and protection of indigenous plants and animals.

President of UCLN, Alan Denehey, said they were trying to reverse the degradation of the natural environment that had occurred in the past.

“We are trying to slow that down, reverse it, repair it.We will be identifying and finding focal species.Given that we are trying to revegetate and create interconnected wildlife corridors, we are keen to engage landowners in our aim of creating native vegetation corridors as part of these landscape scale projects.We see this as a win for the environment and for the landowners through improved property amenity and farm efficiency.”

For the latest media on this project go to biolink. and Advocate.

 PLANTING BEGINS AT TRENT CREEK

On a cold and blustery day in Trentham this week when the mercury didn’t rise much over 7 degrees 40 primary school students, teachers and parents from Trentham Primary School joined forces with the Friends Of Trentham Creeks and Reserves to plant over 180 indigenous plants  at Trent Creek.

The children had a great time getting muddy whilst planting and learning  about the importance of protecting the riparian health of our environment.

Friends Of Trentham Creeks and Reserves received funds recently as a result of the Regional Riparian Action Plan Program to clear weeds and plant in the area.  The area has two species listed as ‘rare’ in Victoria –  the  Brooker gum –Euccalyptus brookeriana , and the Floodplain Fireweed -Senecio campylocarpus, and riparian forest (EVC18) listed as vulnerable in the Central Highlands Bioregion.

FOTCR   Convenor Jan Robertson said “We, the Friends of Trentham Creeks and Reserves, had a great time working along side the Trentham Primary School students.Their enthusiasm was well supported by school staff and parent volunteers.Having washed 40 pairs of small -size gardening gloves and dozens of hand -tools, my laundry smells like a damp swamp, but I will happily put the equipment  away for next  time.”

Trentham Primary School students help the Friends of Trentham Creeks and Reserves to plant the riparian area alongside Trent Creek.                                                                                                                                                              ©Scheltema

 

TYLDEN GORSE CONTROL FIELD DAY

Participants at the Tylden Landcare Gorse Control Field Day learn about effective gorse control.                                             ©Scheltema

Tylden Landcare  recently held a Field Day   to inform property owners about the Victorian Gorse Task Force Program and demonstrate  a gorse grooming machine with integrated herbicide application.Participants were interested to watch how the Ecoblade (operated by Regional Vic Farm Services), cuts, mulches and poisons gorse and other woody weeds.

They learnt the advantages and disadvantages of the works and how different tools can be used in the rehabilitation of our local paddocks and landscapes.

President of Tylden Landcare Brnedan Smith said ‘The aim of today is to demonstrate  effective and efficient long term gorse control and to ensure better environmental and economic outcomes. Gorse is a weed of national significance and also a regionally controlled weed, meaning landowners and managers are responsible for its control. This program allows governments,communities and landowners to work together on  gorse control.”

“Tylden Landcare has secured funding from the Victorian Gorse Task Force of $19,500.We hope to control roughly 9 hectares of gorse infestation in the Tylden area.”

The Field Day was held on the 148 acre property of John Ford. “We met Brendan at the farm gate -he was a gorse evangelist! He spoke about the program and the 50 % rebate and told us about an information session at Tylden Hall with Tylden Landcare. I went along  and thought  – this is a fast and effective way to get rid of gorse.This is a daunting patch of about 2 hectares infestation.We are addressing it under this program and are paying half the cost of the gorse eradication as a result of this grant.” said John.

Property owner John Ford watches the Ecoblade treat gorse on his property  at the Tylden Landcare Gorse Field Day.                                                                                                                                                                                                           ©Scheltema

 

 

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

• The Macedon Ranges 2017 Community Funding Scheme for grants of up to $6000.But hurry,it closes May 1st!   Info here – MRSC  If you’re wishing to apply for funding for an event or festival,  refer to Council’s Events & Festivals Grant Program.If you have a community project which requires funding of $1,500 or less don’t forget about MRSC Small Community Grants Scheme which is open all year and involves a simple online application process.
•  Landcare Australia’s Sustainable Agriculture Grants 2017. All the information can be found at: sustainableaggrants.
• The Victorian Government has recently released Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037,For more information or to view the new biodiversity plan visit  https://www.environment.vic.gov.au/biodiversity/biodiversity-plan  .
• It has also announced $1 million in funding for Community & Volunteer Action Grants.Grants will support communities in efforts to conserve their local biodiversity and threatened species.The Community & Volunteer Action Grants are offering funding for projects between $5,000 and $50,000.More information →  Applications close 10th May.
  Said the Minister for Energy,Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio.“This is a blueprint for how we can work together to stop the decline of Victoria’s unique biodiversity.We’re supporting a broad range of rehabilitation efforts by community and volunteer groups that will improve the resilience of our native plants and wildlife. We’ve fulfilled another election commitment to institute a state wide biodiversity strategy to protect our habitats for future generations.”

However whilst our governments announces its latest biodiversity strategy Australia has quietly added 49  species to the threatened and endangered lists.

Read more here – 49morespecies

•  Patagonia Environmental Grants

Round 1 Closes: 30 April 2017
Round 2 Closes: 31 August 2017
About:
Patagonia funds only environmental work. They are most interested in making grants to organisations that identify and work on the root causes of problems and that approach issues with a commitment to long-term change. Because Patagonia believe that the most direct path to real change is through building grassroots momentum, their funding focuses on organisations that create a strong base of citizen support. Grants typically range between $2,500 – $15,000.

Info: For more information, visit the Patagonia website

• Suez Community Grants

Applications Close: 5 May 2017

About:
SUEZ believe strong communities build a better future for us all. Since 2013, the SUEZ Community Grants program has provided more than $400,000 to inspiring organisations and projects across Australia. They offer individual grants of up to $15,000 to fund social and environmental projects that contribute to a stronger community and healthier environment.

Info: For more information, visit the Suez Community Grants website

EVENTS

There is a wonderful array of events coming up. Dont forget to check our events calendar on our website if you forget what is on where .https://www.uppercampaspelandcare.org.au/calendar/

BIRDS OF PREY AT GLENLYON

This is a wonderful opportunity to see Birds of Prey at a Glenlyon Landcare event.See flyer below:

LINKING LANDSCAPES SYMPOSIUM

For those groups working on biolink projects dont miss this LINKING LANDSCAPES SYMPOSIUM , organised by  Central Victorian Biolinks.

 

PROTECT YOUR PATCH WORKSHOP 

Are you looking for some assistance to help improve the biodiversity values of your rural property? Speakers from Trust for Nature, Land for Wildlife and the Victorian Government’s native vegetation offsets program will answer your questions about the financial incentives and support available to help you protect your bush block.

Organised by Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the North Central Catchment Management Authority with funding support from the Australian Government.

Book now

NORTH CENTRAL CHAT AND MORE

CLICK HERE to view the April 2017 edition of the North Central Chat. This month’s edition features information, Landcare stories and upcoming events.

To see our region’s Landcare report card 2015-16 from Tess Grieves, our Regional Landcare Coordinator, CLICK HERE. It features our very own Malmsbury Landcare.

To read the latest Landcare in Focus go to  Landcare In Focus.

To read the latest Landline go to  landlink

For serrated tussock information from the Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party go to https://www.facebook.com/serratedtussock

The release of the RHDV1 – K5 (Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus) took place on 6 March 2017. Agriculture Victoria are coordinating the release of the virus in Victoria.
The link below has some videos on RHDV1 – K5 and rabbit control in general.

More information: go to the Pest Smart website 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

• GRANT SUCCESS WITHIN UCLN
• TRENTHAM  DISTRICT LANDCARE
• CAMPASPE VALLEY LANDCARE WEED WARRIORS
• PIPERS CREEK LANDCARE
• PROPERTY PLANNING WORKSHOP
• CHILD SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
• NORTH CENTRAL CHAT
• PHOTOVOICE FOR WEEDS AND RABBITS
• REVIEW OF FLORA AND FAUNA GUARANTEE ACT
• CLIMATE READY REVEGETATION GUIDE
• CSIRO GUIDE FOR MONITORING REVEGETATION
• TWO APPS TO KEEP YOU SAFE, SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL.

“The future of life on earth depends on our ability to take action.”  David Attenborough                                        Pic Scheltema

Welcome to the February edition of our ENews. I hope you have all had a safe and relaxing Christmas and an enjoyable summer.

As David Attenborough said  “The future of life on earth depends on our ability to take action. Many individuals are doing what they can, but real success can only come if there’s a change in our societies and our economics and our politics….Surely we have a responsibility to leave for  future generations a planet that is healthy, inhabitable for all species.” A big thank you to all those Landcarers out there working hard to improve the health of their patch. For those of you involved in revegetation projects, make sure you check out the great guides at the bottom of the ENews. You may wish to visit the UCLN stall at the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Festival on the 4th March.

GRANT SUCCESS WITHIN UCLN

The UCLN will continue with its work on the Biolink projects, identifying focal species such as the Powerful Owl, seen here. Pic Scheltema

UCLN was successful with its 2016-17 Community Grants application.  The funding  will enable work to continue  on its biolink projects; the Coliban Corridor and the Cobaw Campaspe Connections. It will enable the Network to continue building on connectivity to enhance biodiversity in the two biolinks.

Using the Action Plans  completed as a result of last year’s grant  (which can be seen on our website here – Action Plans ), ecologists will be engaged to develop an inventory of focal species, such as the Powerful Owl and Phascogale, and provide advice on their habitat requirements, and threats.

A least one field day will be held to involve the community in the ecological assessments. The work is designed to support the progress of the ‘clusters’ of the UCLN member groups as they move towards the goal of landscape-scale habitat repair and expansion.

UCLN President Alan Denehey said “This year’s project, which follows on from the goals of our Strategic Plan and the excellent community engagement activities of last year, aims to extend the knowledge of our members and support their efforts as they plan and scope landscape restoration projects”.

Congratulations also to Malmsbury Landcare for receiving funding for it’s long-running Reclaim the Channel Reserve project.

“The centerpiece of that project is a walking path that takes in the magnificent Malmsbury viaduct, the largest stone bridge in the southern hemisphere,” North Central Catchment Management Authority regional Landcare co-ordinator Tess Grieves said.

Along with other members of Malmsbury District Landcare Rob Burdett and John Walters, seen above, are working on a long term project -‘Reclaim the Reserve’, to remove weeds, plant native vegetation and continue creating a walking track near the Malmsbury Viaduct.                         Pic Scheltema

Ms Grieves said this was the most successful grants round ever for the region, with 92 per cent of applicants successful.

“That goes to show our Landcare groups are really on the ball and focused on the environmental projects that are important to their communities,” she said.

Other successful UCLN member groups were:

• Ashbourne Landcare Group for biolink matrix demonstration sites.
• Carlsruhe Landcare to replenish and revegetate biolink one and two.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio congratulated the local groups on their projects.

“The Victorian Landcare program is an investment in our future and it’s fantastic to see these local groups receiving grants to support their important environmental projects,” she said.

TRENTHAM DISTRICT LANDCARE

Trentham Landcare was also a successful recipient of a Hepburn Shire Community Grant to continue with their work removing weeds and planting native vegetation in the vicinity of  the historic Enders Bridge.

Trentham Landcare was delighted to receive news that they were successful in a Hepburn Shire Community Grant to continue their work in weed removal and native plantings at the Historic Enders Bridge. Pic Scheltema

Members of Trentham Landcare recently enjoyed a  summer early morning  walk with bird expert Tanya Loos, from Connecting Country, to do a bird count on a property  on the edge of the Wombat Forest. Eighteen species of birds were observed.

Trentham Landcare members Kent Burgess and Jessica Roberts at a recent event to identify birds on a property at the edge of the Wombat Forest. Pic Scheltema

CAMPASPE VALLEY LANDCARE WEED WARRIORS

Do you or your group need help identifying and managing Texas and Chilean Needle grass? Campaspe Valley Landcare has produced an excellent ‘Ute Guide’ to use out in the field which can help with the difficult task of identifying this weed, which is fast becoming a problem in the district. The guide is now available online on our website needle-grass-web-LR (1) . Or if you would like the booklet please contact Barbara James on 0458590642 or archiemcleod@gmail.com

Using the excellent Ute Guide produced by Campaspe Valley Landcare to ID the troublesome weed. Pic Scheltema

Campaspe Valley Landcare does a wonderful job on controlling weeds in their area, with the help of the Mt Alexander Shire grants. They have an ongoing commitment to eradicating many weeds in their district and have advised the Shire for many years on roadside weeds over an area covering about 25 km. They also work in partnership with DELWP on gorse eradication on Back Creek (a tributary of the Campaspe River) with funding also provided from the Gorse Task Force.

Weed warriors Phillip Don, Barbara James and John Stuwe from Campaspe Valley Landcare. Pic Scheltema

Their members volunteer their time and equipment on neighboring properties to manage the spread of weeds. Says member Phillip Don “I’d like to do today what others wont, so the weed problem doesn’t become too big tomorrow.”  Another member, botanist John Stuwe, is compiling  plant lists from the area which will be used for future regeneration projects and for the protection of rare and endangered species. A great example of a Landcare group really making a difference in their area!

PIPERS CREEK LANDCARE

Another group that has done a terrific job managing weeds, particularly gorse, in their area is Pipers Creek and District Landcare. They have just welcomed Charlotte Blair as their new President. Said previous President Peter Sporle “I am handing over the reins to a new generation because the demographic in Landcare is rapidly aging. The successful groups are very family orientated now. We’re excited to have a new family join our group and take on  executive roles.”

New president Charlotte said “It’s important for the children to understand about sustainability.We want to learn about indigenous plants and animals, whats a weed, and how to care for the land. The demographics are changing, there are a lot of people coming from the city, a lot of new families. We’d like to help educate new landowners how to look after and sustain the land.” Welcome Charlotte! Its exciting seeing new generations taking on Peters slogan – ‘Landcare – I Care!’.

Former Pipers Creek President Peter Sporle hands over the reins to new President Charlotte Blair, seen here with sons Harrison and Jamie.                                                                                                                       Pic Scheltema

PROPERTY PLANNING WORKSHOP

This workshop booked out a month before the RSVP date of 10th March but keep your eyes out for similar ones to be offered in the next year – they are a great resource for new Landowners and Landcare owners. Former attendee Sally White said: “The biggest thing I got out of it was to be responsible as a landowner.We need to be accountable for our land and these courses give us help to achieve that.”

CHILD SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Many groups will now be aware of the the new legislation regarding Child Safety and that we are obliged to abide by them. Some groups within our network already have done so. For those that havent, it is a simple process.

There are a few simple steps that your groups can take now as a minimum standard

• Create a Statement of Commitment to child safety, to be documented in your constitution, minutes, website etc. E.g. “The XXXX Landcare group are committed to providing a child safe environment and being a Child Safe organisation in accordance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards”

• A further step might be some supporting principles such as “The XXXX Landcare Group has zero tolerance of child abuse” “The XXXX Landcare Group will ensure all new volunteers are aware of our commitment to child safely when they are welcomed into the group”

• An Action Statement will assist your members to know exactly what to do should any issue arise and for reporting any suspected abuse e.g. “The XXXX Landcare Group will comply with Victorian Law by contacting the police in any instance that abuse toward Children is suspected or witnessed”

• If you produce OHS/ Hazard Risk Assessments or Plans before your events, consider adding a line in specifically for the Safety of Children e.g. “This event is open to the general public, therefore parents are advised that their children remain their responsibility at all times”

• If working with schools, think about making the Standards part of the conversation with the teacher in charge when you’re planning the logistics of the activity e.g. “What do we both need to do to ensure this activity/event/session provides a child safe environment?”

FOR MORE INFO ON HOW TO ABIDE BY THE REGULATIONS GO TO  Child Safety  AND LOOK FOR REPORT TITLED CHILD SAFETY.

Landcare groups are now required to comply with new child safety measures.                                              Pic Scheltema

NORTH CENTRAL CHAT

The first 2017 edition of the North Central Chat is out; featuring upcoming events, Landcare related news for community groups and information on several Shire grant rounds that are about to open, go to  Chat  (9 Mb download)

PHOTOVOICE FOR WEEDS AND RABBITS

Join in a Victoria-wide photovoice initiative to guide future community action and investment on widely established invasive species. The Victorian Government, in collaboration with community pest management groups for blackberry, gorse, serrated tussock and rabbits, is undertaking a Systems Mapping Study. The study uses photovoice to feature your stories and experiences. Images can help us to better understand each other’s stories, offering a fresh look at the longstanding community issue. Stories may be up to 300 words, and will be accepted until 31 March 2017.

Create your image+story in response to the following questions.

• What motivates your efforts to control blackberry, gorse, serrated tussock or rabbits?
• What hinders your efforts to control blackberry, gorse, serrated tussock or rabbits and how do you overcome the hindrance?
• What are your ideas for community action to control blackberry, gorse, serrated tussock or rabbits?

For further information  and to submit your image+story visit weedsandrabbits.com/about.

 REVIEW OF THE FLORA AND FAUNA GUARANTEE ACT

Pic Scheltema

Victorians are encouraged to have their say on the review the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 to ensure it better protects our biodiversity.

The Act has been in place for nearly thirty years, but this has coincided with a decline in Victoria’s biodiversity.

A consultation paper has been prepared to seek the community views on the Act and how it could be improved by incorporating improvements in our knowledge of native flora and fauna.

Community feedback is vital to ensuring that changes to the Act reflect how we can work together to protect Victoria’s unique plants and animals.

The consultation paper and information on making a submission is available at:

www.engage.vic.gov.au/review-flora-and-fauna-guarantee-act-1988.

 Consultation closes on 13 March 2017

The review aligns with the other major biodiversity initiatives including the draft biodiversity plan Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2036, and the review of the native vegetation clearing regulations.

CLIMATE READY REVEGETATION GUIDE

The new Climate-ready revegetation: A guide for natural resource managers is available to assist natural resource managers work with the uncertainties associated with climate change when planning revegetation activities. CLICK HERE to go to the website, where you can also download a PDF version of the guide.

SEEKING GROWLERS!

Searching for growling grass frogs. Pic Scheltema

The Growling Grass Frog  is   threatened in Victoria. Dan Gilmore from Biosis is seeking Growling Grass Frog habitat sites (*not already under a covenant) to offset a project in Melbourne. If your group or anyone you know has a Growling Grass Frog site (including creek lines, farm damns, drainage lines etc) on their property which they may be willing to covenant with compensation through Biosis’s process, please contact Dan on 0428 108 379 or at dgilmore@biosis.com.au.

CLICK HERE for more information on Growling Grass Frogs, or CLICK HERE to visit the Biosis website.

NEW GUIDE FROM CSIRO FOR MONITORING YOUR RESTORATION EFFORTS

Thank you to Connecting Country for sharing the information below.

In the spirit of sharing useful information for people involved and interested in conservation and land management, we’ve recently been made aware that the CSIRO have released their fantastic guide, ‘Checking for Change: A practical guide to checking whether sites newly managed for conservation are on track to improve’.  CLICK HERE to view this free guide Read more…

TWO APPS TO HELP KEEP YOU SAFE THIS SUMMER

• The new VicEmergency app provides access to warnings and incidents for fires, floods, storms, earthquakes and water safety. The VicEmergency app replaces the FireReady app and is now available from the App Store or Google Play.
• The Emergency + App is a fantastic app to have on your phone.It works when there is no phone reception, and will connect you directly to police, S.E.S or Fire Services whilst giving your GPS location.Very handy when you are out of range and have been bitten by a snake, as happened recently at a Landcare Planting event. Remember NOT TO MOVE if that happens.

MACEDON RANGES SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL 4th March 9am – 3pm

UCLN will be having a stall in conjunction with Woodend and Ashbourne Landcare groups at the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Festival on the 4th March.We would love to see you there!

In previous years the festival has attracted visitors from the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria and Melbourne, and hosted 60+ exhibitors, speakers and demonstrators. The aim of the festival is to showcase ideas, products and practical solutions that will inspire and inform visitors so they can enjoy living more sustainably. The concept of this year’s festival is ‘Resilience – Building a Sustainable Community’.

The 2017 MRSLF has confirmed Simon Corbell, the Victorian Government’s new Renewable Energy Advocate, as key speaker on the Victorian Renewable Energy Targets (VRET) and its potential impacts on the renewable energy sector in our region.