In This Edition:

• INDIGENOUS LANDSCAPE WORKSHOP
• TRENTHAM LANDCARE BEGINS WILLOW REMOVAL AT HISTORIC ENDERS BRIDGE
• NEW HOMES FOR PHASCOGALES
• UCLN SUCCESSFUL IN  NETWORK GRANT APPLICATION AND GORSE TASK FORCE GRANT
• DROUGHT RELIEF PACKAGES
• LANDCARE INFORMATION NOTES AVAILABLE
• UCLN AGM
• COBAW FIRE INQUIRY
• UCLN PART OF WINNING TEAM
• NORTH CENTRAL CHAT
• 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF LANDCARE
• NEW SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE STRATEGY FOR NORTH CENTRAL NOW OUT
• COMMUNITIES FOR NATURE,WORK FOR THE DOLE AND TYLDEN LANDCARE
• LANDLINK

INDIGENOUS LANDSCAPE WORKSHOP AT TRENTHAM FALLS.

Trentham Landcare members recently attended an interesting walk at Trentham Falls to learn about the history and geology of the area through indigenous eyes.Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Ricky Nelson performed a welcome to Country above the Falls.                                                       ©Scheltema

Members from Trentham Landcare, the Trentham Historical Society and Wombat Forest Care met recently at Trentham Falls for a workshop to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.

An elder of the DJa Dja Wurrung people, Ricky Nelson, performed a Welcome to Country dance s on top of the Falls. He explained how in his culture it was good manners to ask for permission to enter other people’s land, who would in turn grant permission to pass through and gather food as needed.

Aunty Julie McHale, though not a Dja Dja Wurrung women as she is originally from Tasmania, explained how she had been adopted as an elder in this region. She told Dreamtime stories and spoke of how the indigenous plants were used. Participants were taught how to identify “ring” trees which are “markers” formed from eucalyptus branches trained as saplings to fuse into a ring formation pointing to significant sites such as water, birthing and burial trees. Birthing trees were identified.

The participants learnt that Trentham was on the edge of several indigenous communities and was a popular meeting place.

Geologist Dr Julian Hollis spoke of the complex geological history of the area and explained how the Falls will change in the future.

Following the walk, participants feasted on a lunch utilizing native foods produced by a  catering group – the “Murnong Mammas” who are either aboriginal women or mothers of aboriginal children.

Uncle Rick then gave a presentation about the history of the Dja Dja Wurrung and the process of formally identifying, documenting and preserving indigenous artefacts.

He summed up the day simply with the words, “Respect – Respect for oneself, the environment and others.”

TRENTHAM LANDCARE BEGINS WILLOW REMOVAL AT HISTORIC ENDERS BRIDGE

Work begins to remove willows at Enders Bridge,near Trentham Falls.                                                                                         ©Scheltema

Trentham Landcare was delighted to see willow removal begin along the Coliban River at the historic Enders Bridge near Trentham. The group applied for a Hepburn Community Grant of $7500.00 to begin removal of the willows at Enders Bridge, just upstream of Trentham Falls.

Crack willows are a weed occupying thousands of kilometers of streams across south eastern Australia. They can cause substantial social, economic and environmental impacts. Willows can reduce the quality and flow of water, causing damage to nearby infrastructure, and reducing habitat for native fauna.

Michael Keaney, from Trentham Landcare said “We noticed in the five years we had lived here that the willows had taken over. We wanted to remove them to improve the flow of the water, and expose native trees and grasses. We also wanted to give easier access to the historic Enders Bridge, and the dam and fort beyond it. The nearby Alexanders Paddock, which was cleared as a previous Landcare project, was used as camping and watering area in the days of the horse and cart. Enders Bridge was built in 1901-02 to replace the adjacent toll bridge which was built in 1869.”

President of Trentham Landcare Patricia Scheltus said “This will reduce the chance of willows growing downstream close to the Trentham Falls. This was a great exercise in the involvement in a number of different parties. Trentham Landcare initiated the idea and then involved Hepburn Shire, NCCMA, Vic Rds, DELWP, and local contractor Platypus Environmental Services.

“We are hoping to reestablish native fauna like platypus. Our vision is to create a lovely walking track along the Coliban River towards the Trentham Falls. We are talking to DELWP about a possible partnership with the Dja DJa Wurrung people to do ongoing maintenance.

Angela Gladman, project Manager with NCCMA, helped coordinate further willow and blackberry removal downstream of the work done by Trentham Landcare. Angela said “The North Central CMA is building on the great work of Trentham Landcare at Enders Bridge through funding the continuation of weed removal works for a further 1 km along the Coliban River towards Trentham Falls. Funded through the Victorian Governments North Central Priority Waterways Project, the work aims to reduce the downstream spread of invasive willow fragments and other weed seed from impacting upon the Trentham Falls. The Falls are significant for their environmental, geological and social values.

Michael Keaney and President of Trentham Landcare Patricia Scheltus at Enders Bridge where willow removal has begun.                                                                                    ©Scheltema

NEW HOME FOR PHASCOGALES AT HANGING ROCK

Nest boxes for phascogales being installed at Hanging Rock Reserve.                                                                      ©Scheltema

Installing nest boxes at Hanging Rock Reserve.                                            ©Scheltema

UCLN SUCCESSFUL IN NETWORK GRANT APPLICATION

Sophie Bickford and Kate Daniel begin planning on the Coliban River after hearing news of the Network’s success in their grant application.                                                          ©Scheltema

The Upper Campaspe Landcare Network was thrilled to receive news that they were successful in their application for a Landcare Network Grant of $14,500.00 to continue implementing the goals of their Strategic Plan.

Sophie Bickford from the Network said “This project is really exciting as it shows that people are serious about tackling the threats faced by local species and are coming together to take a landscape-wide and informed approach to doing so. Working together in a targeted and strategic way we can achieve so much more.”

The money will be spent on achieving greater ecological outcomes in two areas – “the Upper Coliban Corridor” (from Trentham Falls to Malmsbury Reservoir) and the “Cobaw–Eastern Buffer”.

Seven Landcare groups (Malmsbury, Tylden, Trentham, Ashbourne, Newham, Woodend and Carlsruhe) within the UCLN will work together to hold a series of workshops that collate expert ecological and community knowledge in each area. Walks held along the rivers will identify and document existing values, threats and conservation opportunities to address problems.

The workshops will be led by ecologists and local indigenous representatives. They will be supported with mapping and other information on conservation and land-use issues.

Kate Daniel, President of Woodend Landcare said, “We’re looking forward to working with our Landcare neighbours Newham and Carlsruhe at the eastern edge of the Network. One of our aims is to better identify gaps in biolinks and develop some plans for future on-ground works.”

The member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas MP said, “The Andrews Government recognises the critical role played by Landcare groups and volunteers in the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network in achieving ongoing environmental gains in the region.”

“The $2 million 2015–2016 Victorian Landcare Grants are a key means of support for those groups and individuals, both in the electorate of Macedon and across the state.”

“We understand the valuable contribution Landcare groups play to our local communities and we are currently reviewing what else we can do to ensure we support volunteers and groups across Victoria.”

GORSE FUNDING

Our Network has also been successful in a $5000.Gorse Task Force Grant to undertake weed removal post fires in the Black Hill area.

Sophie and Marigold Bickford,Kate Daniels and Barry Elliot on the Coliban River begin planning after news of the Network’s success in obtaining a grant.                                                  ©Scheltema

NORTH CENTRAL DROUGHT RESPONSE PACKAGE ANNOUNCED – FUNDING FOR STOCK CONTAINMENT AREAS IN OUR REGION

The North Central CMA is rolling out two parts of the State Government’s broader drought package — the Drought Employment Program and funding for Stock Containment Areas.

The Drought Employment Program aims to provide drought-affected people the opportunity to earn off-farm income to support their families and rural communities, contribute towards natural resource management outcomes and increase their confidence and skills for the future.

The employment program is restricted to the worst affected parts of the catchment(focusing on the population centres of Donald, Charlton, Wedderburn and St Arnaud), which means that farmers in our region and immediate surrounds are not currently eligible.

The funding for Stock Containment Areas however, is open to farmers across the catchment. The funding is to help manage livestock in a confined area. Eligible farmers will be provided with a grant of up to $2,000 to assist with establishing a stock containment area (SCA) on their properties.

Stock containment funding is also available to help manage livestock in a contained area. Containing stock makes it easier and faster for farmers to hand feed and monitor stock health, helps control erosion by protecting what little grass there is, and allows for pasture regrowth when the drought breaks.

More information can be found at the North Central CMA website: http://www.nccma.vic.gov.au/Land/Drought_Response/index.aspx

An article in the Age re water restrictions in our area — http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/-glch3d.html

Need help with information about how to run a Landcare Group? See link to useful notes below.                                                       ©Scheltema

LANDCARE INFORMATION NOTES AVAILABLE

Have you ever wondered what the position description of a Secretary or President is? Or how to get your groups message across to a new audience? What about the best way to resolve a conflict or avoid burnt out?

If your group needs some help regarding planning,financial management,project management  and many other things there are a set of notes  available for download on the Victorian Landcare Gateway website at http://www.landcarevic.net.au/resources/for-groups/notes.

The series of ‘Landcare Notes’ produced by the Victorian Landcare team are very helpful. Some of them are particularly suited to helping new committee members find their feet, and some of them might offer new ideas on long-term issues.

The notes cover the topics of:

1. Group Formation and Function
2. Planning
3. Funding
4. Financial Management
5. Project Management
6. Communications and Public Relations
7. Governance
8. Human Resources
9. Volunteering
10. Employment

INVASIVE PLANT AND ANIMAL STORIES WANTED.

Would you like to tell the story of how your group has tackled the issue of weeds and feral animals?

The next issue (no. 66, autumn 2016 ) of the Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management magazine will feature stories on invasive plants and animals.

The editors are interested in hearing the experiences of groups, networks and landholders working on these challenging issues. Contributions should be sent to the editor (Carrie Tiffany, viaeditorviclandcare@gmail.com) by Friday 5 February 2016.

A two-page feature in the Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management magazine is around 1,000 words, plus 3-4 high res jpgs images. A one-page story is around 500 words with 1-2 high res jpgs images. A high res jpg is an electronic image at least 15cm in size when saved at 300dpi (this makes a file size of around 1MB). All photographs must be captioned. Photographs are not credited due to lack of space. Shorter stories and notices about upcoming events are also welcome. Stories written in the active voice with quotes (e.g. from landholders) are preferred.

If you would like some help writing the story or taking the photos please do not hesitate to ask me.

UCLN AGM HELD AT KYNETON

Peter McRostie from NCCMA explains how to upload data and map projects into a tablet whilst on site at the UCLN AGM                                                    ©Scheltema

Our AGM was held recently at Kyneton. 27 people attended for a  walk along the Kyneton River  through the Botanic Gardens to look at the great work being done by the Campaspe Land and River Management Group.

Peter McRostie from the NCCMA brought along tablets and gave instructions on how to map projects and enter data on site. We then walked on to the Piper St Food Company for lunch ,the AGM and to see a the mapping projected.

The Network has applied via the volunteers Grant for 5 tablets to share amongst the groups and to start teaching members how to map their projects and enter data.This will make end of financial year data collection a less painful process! We hope we are successful in our grant application so we can begin work on this project.

Walking along the Campaspe River at the Kyneton Botanic Gardens prior to the UCLN AGM            ©Scheltema

COBAW FIRES INQUIRY RESULTS.

Landowner Hamish Anderson talks to Fire Recovery Officer from MRSC on his property after the recent Cobaw-Lancefield Fires.                                                          ©Scheltema

The recent Cobaw fires affected some landowners in the North East of our Network.

For those of you interested in  the report from the Lancefield-Cobaw fire investigation and the government’s response  go to – http://delwp.vic.gov.au/fire-and-emergencies/lancefield.

The issue

The Croziers Track planned burn conducted by DELWP broke containment lines on 3 October.

It was brought under control by DELWP and CFA firefighters over the next two days but again broke containment lines on 6 October.

On 8 October, Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lisa Neville requested an independent investigation into the fire; and for findings to be provided to DELWP within three to four weeks.

Investigation

The investigation was led by an external, independent expert, Murray Carter, Director of Western Australia’s Office of Bushfire Risk Management, and examined all aspects of the planned burn and what happened once it began.

Profile – Murray Carter – Director Office of Bushfire Risk Management, Western Australia

Scope of investigation

The investigation investigated and provided a written report to the Secretary regarding :

1. the adequacy of planning and resourcing of the ‘Lancefield – Cobaw Croziers Track’ planned burn (the planned burn)
2. the appropriateness of the weather and other conditions for conduct of the planned burn on 30 September 2015
3. what caused the planned burn to break containment lines on 3 October 2015 and on 6 October 2015
4. decision making, management and control of the planned burn, including the adequacy of the patrol strategy adopted following its ignition
5. the adequacy of communication with the community in the lead up to the planned burn and after it broke containment lines

The investigation team extensively consulted with the community, from community meetings, one-on-one meetings, and feedback provided via email. More than 100 submissions were received from the community and stakeholders as part of the investigation.

Full terms of reference for the investigation:

Terms of Reference [PDF File – 67.2 KB]

Terms of Reference [MS Word Document – 17.1 KB]

Support and assistance

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning will provide appropriate support to those members of the community that have suffered damage as a result of this fire.

If you require any support or assistance from the government, please contact DELWP’s Community Liaison Officer on 5336 6674.

For more information about accessing the various types of assistance and support, these FAQs [MS Word Document – 84.2 KB] may assist.

Lancefield insurance fact sheet:

Lancefield-Cobaw: Insurance information [PDF File – 56.8 KB]

Lancefield-Cobaw: Insurance information [MS Word Document – 9.2 KB]

– See more at: http://delwp.vic.gov.au/fire-and-emergencies/lancefield#sthash.kixh567C.dpuf

The Upper Campaspe Landcare Network was thrilled to be a partner in the Black Hill Fire Recovery team who recently were recipients of the two Fire Recovery Awards.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Friends of Black Hill Reserve, Loddon Prison Landmate Program, Upper Campaspe Landcare Network, CFA and Regional Arts Victoria, have won two awards for the recovery effort after the January bushfire that affected the Black Hill Reserve.

Awards won:
Winner of Recovery Award

Winner of RACV Insurance Award for Excellence

Well done to all the  people who were involved in this work.

UCLN was thrilled to be part of the Winning Team at the recent Fire Awareness Awards Night.

NORTH CENTRAL CHAT

Some of the 120 women who recently attended the ” Chicks in the Sticks” Event at Carlsruhe.  ©Scheltema

The  November & December edition of the North Central Chat is here http://www.nccma.vic.gov.au/library/scripts/objectifyMedia.aspx?file=KMSMedia/pdf/141/77.pdf&fileName=North Central Chat- November December 2015.pdf

Hot topics include

–          November 2015 Chicks in the Sticks

–          Drone footage capturing Gorse removal

–          Cool Cows Workshop

–          Engaging the next Generation of Landcarers

–          River Detectives Program 2016 registrations now open

–          Events and Grant Funding opportunities!

Some members of Baynton Sidonia Landcare group at the recent “Chicks in the Sticks” event at Carlsruhe recently.                                                               ©Scheltema

30TH ANNIVERSARY OF LANDCARE CELEBRATIONS NEXT YEAR.

Next year is the 30th Anniversary of Landcare in Victoria.The Macedon Ranges Shire Council and two Landcare Networks in our Region will be holding an event to celebrate this impressive milestone.

If you have any ideas for the event you can have input by accessing the online survey below.

Please see the attached online survey for the Landcare Forum ideas.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Landcare2015

NORTH CENTRAL VICTORIA REGIONAL SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE STRATEGY NOW OUT

Productive farming while protecting the natural resource base

Following months of community and stakeholder engagement the regionally endorsed 2015 north central Victoria Regional Sustainable Agriculture Strategy is released. The release of the Strategy comes at a time of high commodity prices, increasing demand for product, an unprecedented level of interest in investing in Australian agriculture, and a buoyant Victorian agricultural community that is positive about its future. At the same time the Strategy recognises the dry conditions that have prevailed across the region, both through the Millennium drought and also over the past two years.

The Strategy draws on the experiences and feedback of hundreds of land managers who have participated in sustainable agriculture programs in north central Victoria over the past ten years. Experienced practitioners, both from private industry and government programs, have also contributed in providing well-rounded perspectives.

Agriculture in north central Victoria continues to undergo rapid change and to achieve greater agricultural sustainability, there will need to be the balance between achieving greater farming productivity whilst protecting the natural resource base and investing in the capacity of our agricultural community. The change drivers affecting agriculture currently include an increasing climate variability; declining soil health; water reform and irrigation modernisation; technological advances; consumer demand for quality food and organic products and high animal welfare standards and expectations.

The Strategy will:

• Strengthen the improvement of sustainable agriculture in the region over the next 15 years through strategic and practical measures.
• Provide a regionally coordinated approach to sustainable agriculture that enhances and builds relationships between the region’s service providers, producers, manufacturers and consumers.
• Function as a prospectus for attracting future investment and additional resources to achieve sustainable agriculture.

The full version of the Strategy can be found here: 2015 North Central Victoria Regional Sustainable Agriculture Strategy

COMMUNITIES FOR NATURE,WORK FOR THE DOLE  AND TYLDEN LANDCARE

Tylden Landcare has been working along the Little Coliban River under the Communities for Nature program, which aims to improve the condition of our natural landscapes.  Tylden Landcare partnered with the  Work for the Dole program.

The little Coliban River  area has a blackberry, gorse and willow problem,harbouring rabbits and foxes. Following a weed control program during 2015, a revegetation program was carried out along the Little Coliban River with Tylden Landcare and the Bendigo based work for the Dole program.

“Long term weed control can be achieved through an integrated program that includes chemical control, manual control, follow up works, planting alternative vegetation to suppress weed regrowth, and ongoing maintenance of plantings” said Brendan Smith of Tylden Landcare group. “The partnership between the landcare group, the Work for the Dole program and the community will help ensure sustainable conservation outcomes into the future”.

Many of the plants were Swamp Sedges and Tussock Grasses. Shrubs and trees were also included in the revegetation program and comprised Eucalypts, Acacias, Leptospermum, Cassinnia, Lomandra and the threatened Australian Anchor Plant. All of the plants were sourced from local seed provenances as these plants are acclimatised to our local area and geology.

Tylden Landcare was successful in obtaining a grant from the Victorian government under the Communities for Nature Landcare program. This program supports community groups, schools and volunteers doing work primarily focused on the environment. This has allowed Tylden Landcare to carry out follow up woody weed control works on earlier treated and revegetated areas further along the Little Coliban.

The best long term strategy for weed suppression is to replace weeds with an alternative cover. Along the Little Coliban River this has been achieved through revegetation using indigenous grasses, shrubs and trees. As part of this program around 2800 plants were put in along the Little Coliban- that’s 70 hyco trays, a pretty good effort by the works crew!

Tylden Landcare continues working along the Little Coliban River in conjunction with the Work for The Dole Project and Communities for Nature  ©Scheltema

THE LATEST ISSUE OF LANDLINK IS OUT

The latest issue of Landlink has all all sorts of interesting stories in it.Go to link below for more info.

http://us1.campaign-archive1.com/?u=c874938162801405204f0d115&id=3f8a026bbd&e=c16ae42b84

If its too hot to go outside there is a fascinating story in the Age about using taxidermy decoys to catch rare native brolgas! See link below.

http://www.theage.com.au/technology/sci-tech/ecologist-inka-veltheim-uses-taxidermy-decoys-to-catch-rare-native-brolga-20151118-gl1xwk

KYNETON SHOW

A big thankyou to all those volunteers who helped out recently on the Landcare Stall at the Kyneton Show.The Network purchased indigenous trees and shrubs which were handed out to showgoers on the day,and visitors were able to gain an understanding of the work of Landcare by looking at our display and chatting to members.Leftover trees from the show were donated to Trentham Landcarers who had recently lost plantings due to a late frost.

WISHING ALL LANDCARERS A SAFE AND HAPPY FESTIVE SEASON!

In this edition:

• UCLN NETWORK NEWS
• BLACK HILL RESERVE REOPENING
• LANDMATE PROGRAM UP AND RUNNING WITH LANDCARE
• INFORMATION SESSION ON EXOTIC STIPOID GRASSES
•  TRENTHAM  LANDCARE TO BEGIN WORKS AT ENDERS BRIDGE
• MALMSBURY AND DISTRICT LANDCARE RECEIVE FUNDING TO CONTINUE WORKS AT COMMON
• NATIONAL BIRD WEEK
• BRAEMAR STUDENTS HELP NEWHAM LANDCARE
• CHICKS IN THE STICKS
• NEED HELP TO TACKLE WEEDS IN YOUR LANDCARE AREA?
• NORTH CENTRAL CHAT – NEW RABBIT CONTROL METHODS
• INTERESTING EVENTS IN OUR AREA

After a cold and dry winter we are already battling hot and dry conditions in spring. ©Scheltema

Welcome to our spring ENews for a roundup of what’s been happening in our Network. After a cold and unusually dry winter, spring is upon us, surprising many of us with early hot dry conditions. Spring has brought the wonderful sounds of the poddlebonks and growls of the growling grass frogs to my dam, which is much lower than is usual for this time of the year.

Our thoughts go out to those Landcarers affected by the control burn that got out of control, burning four houses and 4000 hectares. It must be especially difficult for those in the north of our Network who were affected by fires earlier this year.

Let’s hope that as happened recently with the Friends of Black Hill and Langley Landcare, the Network can be of assistance in helping repair damage to Landcare projects.

For those Landcarers affected by the recent fires please see the link below which has a range of NRM information for Landholders recovering from fire.

http://www.landcarevic.net.au/resources/for-land-managers/fire-recovery-resources-for-landholders/resources

There is also a fencing day demo near Kilmore which may be useful to those who lost fences. (See flyer at bottom of ENews.)

Nodding greenhood orchids are an early sign of spring at Black Hill Reserve. ©Scheltema

UCLN NETWORK NEWS

UCLN members apply for a grant to work towards the objectives of the Strategic Plan.
©Scheltema

Several months ago the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network was hard at work applying for a Network Grant of $15,000 to help us achieve some of our objectives as outlined in our recently completed Strategic Plan (see https://www.uppercampaspelandcare.org.au/wp-content/uploads/UCLN-strategic-plan3.pdf ).

After much valuable consultation between groups we formed two “cluster groups”.

One group consists of members from Ashbourne, Tylden, Trentham and Malmsbury Landcare Groups to work on achieving greater ecological outcomes in “The Upper Coliban Corridor” (incorporating the Coliban River from Trentham Falls to Malmsbury Reservoir, Kangaroo Creek and the Little Coliban River).

The other group consists of members from Newham, Woodend and Carlsruhe Landcare Groups to work on the “Cobaw – Macedon Ranges to Campaspe Connections”.

If successful (and it is looking likely!) we intend to hold a series of action planning workshops that bring together expert ecological and community knowledge in each area. The workshops will involve walking stretches of the rivers identifying and documenting existing values, threats and conservation opportunities.

They will be led by ecologists and local indigenous representatives. Planning sessions will be incorporated into the field workshops.

The workshops will be supported with mapping and other information on conservation and land use issues.

This exciting project will benefit Landcare groups within our Network by building ecological knowledge and skills. It also has an important social component, helping to strengthen bonds and knowledge banks between groups.

A special thankyou to all our committee members, especially Sophie Bickford who worked so tirelessly on this project.

If you would like to read about this project in more detail please go to the link below.

Network_Grant_Application_Form_UCLN_FINAL (1)

UCLN Members aim work towards goals of Strategic Plan.©Scheltema

TACKLING GORSE

The Network has recently been successful in a grant application for $4000.00 from the Gorse Taskforce to tackle the endless gorse problem in our region. Thank You Brendan Smith for your work on this issue.

AGM

The AGM for the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network will be held on Tuesday 10th November.We will be walking along the stretch of the Campaspe River that runs through the Botanic Gardens in Kyneton, to celebrate the excellent work done by the Campaspe River and Land Management Group in removing willows and revegetating. The AGM will be held over lunch at a nearby cafe. All welcome. More details soon.

NEW PROJECTOR AND SCREEN

The Network was recently successful in applying for a grant from Macedon Ranges Shire Council to purchase a data projector and screen. This is available for the Presidents of Landcare Groups within our Network to use. Please contact me if interested.

NEED HELP WITH MAPPING?

If any groups need help with mapping, (especially in acquitting their Victorian Landcare Grants from the last financial year), I have organised a session with the NCCMA’s mapping expert in Kyneton on Tuesday 20th October at 11.00am at the Piper St Food Store. Please contact me on 0408722997 or uclandcare@gmail.com if you are interested in coming.

BLACKHILL REOPENING

Visitors can once again enjoy the granite boulder country of Black Hill Reserve after it was recently reopened.©Scheltema

About 60 people gathered at Black Hill Reserve recently to celebrate its reopening after the completion of extensive works to repair damage done by the fires.

A welcome to Country was performed by Taungurung Elder, Lawrence Moser, who thanked the Friends Group for their hard work and dedication in caring for the Reserve.

The Network is proud to have been involved in the collaboration between the Friends Group, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and The Loddon Prison Landmate program to help repair damage done by the fires and once again make the Reserve a special place to visit. As Friends member Anita Leslie said “This is a special resource right here on our doorstep and it was nearly lost. I come here to listen to the silence, it’s settling for the soul.”

For media on the reopening go to http://www.elliottmidnews.com.au/story/3347545/life-returns-to-black-hill/

Friends of Black Hill members proudly showed visitors the abundant spring wildflowers at the Black Hill Reserve reopening.©Scheltema

LANDMATE PROGRAM UP AND RUNNING WITH LANDCARE.

As some of you know I have been involved in linking the Loddon Landmate project with Landcare projects. I am delighted to report that this collaboration has successfully begun.

Carlsruhe Landcare benefited from having the prisoners plant roughly 800 trees on their Bio link Project.  Here’s what Hanne, President of Carlsruhe Landcare had to say “We had the Loddon Prisoners from Castlemaine last Wednesday and Thursday and 700 trees were planted.  The weather was perfect and they did a fantastic job. Bill and I feel that it was worth every cent spent. Highly recommended for future projects.”

Langley Landcare were also pleased to have their plantings which were damaged by the fires replaced free of charge by the Prisoners. Langley Landcare member Rob Pearse said –“In January 2015 the 5Ks of Jim Poulter Creek that Langley Landcare had revegetated over 4 years was destroyed in a grassfire. As part of the regeneration planting after the fire prisoners from Loddon Prison, ably lead by Prison officer Tony Pritchard, planted approximately 2000 trees. This was fantastic effort and huge thanks to them for their work and the positive attitude they bought to the project.”

The prisoners also helped Newham Landcare with some works at Hanging Rock.

If any groups are interested in having the Landmate project provide some labour for their Landcare projects please let me know and I can help coordinate it.

The cost is $400 /day –for that you get a team of roughly 8 to 12 hardworking blokes with a fully qualified (fencing, weed control, planting) supervisor. All equipment and certification is provided.

INFORMATION SESSION ON EXOTIC STIPOID GRASSES

Need help identifying exotic Stipoid Grasses? Come along to an information session to teach you about this harmful weed.©Scheltema

An information session on identifying Needle Grasses will take place on Saturday 17th October, from 10.30 am at Barfold Hall, 1909 Kyneton-Redesdale Rd, Barfold. All are welcome and there is no need to RSVP.

The session will be presented by Martin Deering, biosecurity officer for Loddon Mallee Region.

The session’s focus on identification and control methods will be extremely helpful for landholders wishing to protect their property from invasion by these plants, and for those who already have a problem and would like to know what their control options are.

Texas Needle Grass is fairly widespread in the upper Campaspe River catchment, between Kyneton and Lake Eppalock. In some places whole paddocks have been made unusable for grazing by an invasion of this perennial tussock-forming grass.

Chilean Needle Grass and Serrated Tussock are not well-established in the region but have the potential to be a serious threat to agriculture and the environment across the Mount Alexander Shire.

One of the big challenges for land managers concerned about Needle Grass is identifying the plant. Needle Grasses can look almost identical to native Spear Grasses, and as with many grasses, they are difficult to identify when not in flower.

This event is part of the Campaspe Valley Landcare Group’s ‘Stopping Stipoids in The Upper Campaspe’ project, funded by a Victorian Landcare Grant from the North Central Catchment Management Authority.

Malmsbury and District Landcare members identifying exotic stipoid grasses.©Scheltema

ENDERS BRIDGE TRENTHAM

Congratulations to Trentham Landcare for receiving a $7, 500.00 grant from Hepburn Shire Council to tackle willow removal at Enders Bridge Trentham.

This will have a wonderful impact on improving the flow of the Coliban River as it approaches the iconic Trentham Falls. Well done to all those who took the time to make this project happen.

MALMSBURY AND DISTRICT LANDCARE

As usual Malmsbury District Landcare group have been very busy with many projects. One of these projects is the Malmsbury Common .The Malmsbury group was recently successful in obtaining a $4100.00 Victorian Landcare grant to continue weed control and  native revegetation works at the Common. The Malmsbury Youth Justice centre will be involved in the Weed Removal.

Malmsbury and District Landcare group was succesful in their application for a Victorian Landcare Grant to continue weed removal and revegetation works at the Malmsbury Common.©Scheltema

NATIONAL BIRD WEEK

A winter visitor to my garden.Be part of a citizen science project by taking part in the Great Backyard Bird Count.©Scheltema

Celebrate National Bird Week 2015 by taking part in the biggest citizen science project to hit Aussie shores!  From 19-25 October, thousands of people from across the country are heading out into their backyards, local parks, or favourite outdoor spaces to take part in the second annual AUSSIE BACKYARD BIRD COUNT!   This is an initiative of Bird Life Australia.

To get involved in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, all you need is 20 minutes, your outdoor space of choice, and some keen eyesight (or binoculars).  It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice or an expert.  Simply record the birds you know and look up those you don’t on Bird Life’s new Aussie Bird Count app or our through their website (www.aussiebirdcount.org.au).  You’ll instantly see live statistics and information on how many people are taking part near you and the number of birds and species counted across your neighbourhood and the whole of Australia.

Not only will you get to know your feathered neighbours, but you’ll be contributing to a vital pool of information from across the nation that will help us see how Australian birds are faring.  Last year volunteers counted 800,000 birds from across Australia, this year Birdlife Australia hopes to make it to at least one million. Get your friends and family together, head into the great outdoors and start counting!

For more information head to www.aussiebirdcount.org.au (Thanks to Tanya Loos for this info)

Take part in an exciting citizen science project counting birds.©Scheltema

BIRD WALK ALONG THE CAMPASPE RIVER

Baynton Sidonia Landcare Group is hosting a Bird Walk at Glenhope on the Campaspe River on Monday 19 October from 9am to 1pm. Experienced local birdwatchers Cathy Newing and Mark Buckby from Woodend Bird Observers Club will be present to assist with identification.

The walk down to the river is about two kilometres of occasionally rocky and steep terrain. Participants will need to be moderately fit and agile and wear appropriate clothing. To secure a place, please contact Clare on 5423 4152 or email clare@knco.net by Friday 16 October.

BRAEMAR STUDENTS HELP NEWHAM LANDCARE WITH NEST BOXES

Braemar students hard at work painting nest boxes to be installed at Hanging Rock. ©Scheltema

Year nine Braemar Students are taking part in a project with Newham Landcare to paint and install Nest Boxes made by the Woodend Mens Shed at Hanging Rock. Student Bea Bragaglia said “I think people need to become more aware of how many animals are becoming extinct and what we can do to stop that.We need to help keep the natural environment safe for them.”

Another student involved in the project, Catherine Ott,said “Its important that we help sustain the environment for future generations to come. The nesting boxes are important to create a home for animals which are struggling to find one.”

NEED TO TACKLE WEEDS IN YOUR LANDCARE AREA?

If you are in the Macedon Shire and need help with weed control this may be useful to you:

The Community Weed Partnership Program

The new Community Weed Partnership Program has been released to members of local Landcare and Friends Groups. This funding is for groups to undertake weed control works on Council-managed land, including bushland reserves and roadside areas.

Groups can apply for up to $1,500 for weed control works. Please contact Michelle Patrick via mpatrick@mrsc.vic.gov.au for more information. Please note that this funding is in addition to Council’s $800 Landcare and Friends Group Grant which will be available early next year.

Enjoying the scent of wattle at spring time. ©Scheltema

CHICKS IN THE STICKS

The North Central CMA has announced the upcoming 2015 Chicks in the Sticks Rural Womens’ event on Saturday 28th November.

“Now in its third year, the annual rural women’s event has become one of the most successful platforms in our region to network, learn from and collaborate with like-minded women who are passionate about environmental action and sustainable agriculture.

“This year’s event will take place along the Campaspe River at Carlsruhe with keynote speaker Katie Finlay- RIDRC Rural Woman of the Year; Victorian award winner.

All the event details are on the flyer (CLICK HERE) and RSVPs to the North Central CMA are essential (Phone 03 5448 7124). Last year they booked out quickly, with 120 women registering in just two weeks.  This year has the capacity to host 150 women, so if you are interested it’d be best to book your place sooner rather than later.

NORTH CENTRAL CHAT

The latest issue of the NCCMA’s North Central Chat is now out. For those of you with a rabbit problem there is some useful information on the release of the new strain of Calicivirus which may be helpful to you. http://www.nccma.vic.gov.au//library/scripts/objectifyMedia.aspx?file=KMSMedia/pdf/137/69.pdf&fileName=North%20Central%20Chat-%20September%202015.pdf

INTERESTING EVENTS IN OUR AREA YOU MAY WISH TO ATTEND:

• STRATEGIC PLAN LAUNCHED ON THE BANKS OF THE CAMPASPE

• SUCCESSFUL MOTHERS DAY PLANTING BY CAMPASPE  RIVER AND LAND MANAGEMENT GROUP

• NEST BOXES INSTALLED AT BALD HILL

• CARLSRUHE BEGINS BIOLINK

• LODDEN PRISON LANDMATE PROJECT TO WORK WITH LANDCARE

• BLACK HILL ARTS PROJECT

• UCLN MEETS WITH MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT, LAND AND WATER

• FAREWELL TO JOAN KIRNER

• 2015 LANDCARE AWARDS

• MT ALEXANDER LANDCARE FORUM 19TH JUNE

• PASTURE MANAGEMENT AND CROPPING FIELD DAY 16TH JUNE

• GEOLOGY OF HANGING ROCK-FREE EVENT  SUNDAY 14TH JUNE

A scarlet robin, a sure sign of the colder weather at my place.

When the scarlet robin starts appearing at my place its a  sign of  colder weather coming. Lots of you have been braving the weather holding working bees and getting trees into the ground. Others have been installing nest boxes and conducting educational activities. The Network has been very busy with the Launch of the Strategic Plan and meetings with the Environment Minister, local government and Loddon Prison

Check our website if you would like to see recent media about Network activities  https://www.uppercampaspelandcare.org.au/media/.

STRATEGIC PLAN LAUNCHED ON BANKS OF THE CAMPASPE

The UCLN Strategic Plan being unveiled by Mayors from the Macedon Ranges and Mt Alexander Shires, Christine Henderson and Jennifer Anderson, with Councillor Sebastian Klein from Hepburn Shire Council. The Plan was launched on a redgum tree on the banks of the Campaspe River in Langley.

Over 50 people braved wet and blustery conditions to pick their way through paddocks in Langley down to the Campaspe River to Launch the UCLN Strategic Plan. A barista was on hand to warm people up with lovely coffee and tea and in usual Landcare style there was a terrific spread of goodies to eat. People mingled and warmed themselves by the fires as they waited for the official unveiling, an elaborate pulley system which lifted the red velvet cloth to reveal the Plan!

The Mayors from  Mt Alexander and and Macedon Ranges Shire, Cr Christine Henderson and Cr Jennifer Anderson, accompanied by Cr Sebastian Klein from Hepburn Shire Council cut the red ribbon to unveil the Plan which was presented on a four hundred year old Redgum tree.

President of Newham Landcare, Peny Roberts, spoke wonderfully about the many social and environmental benefits of Landcare. Her speech was followed by  two students from Newham Primary School  who spoke eloquently. 12 year old Sydney and 11 yr old Tom said, “Without Landcare planting trees and protecting important wildlife and vegetation areas our flora and fauna would decline, quite dramatically due to carelessness and human destruction.”

“If we want to see this natural wonderland stay the same in years to come, it is vital that we educate this generation, and future generations about Landcare and how to look after the land, to preserve Australia. If we don’t, we will see native species become seriously endangered and possibly extinct.”

“Landcare means so much to our school and we don’t know where we would be without it.”

The Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP was also present, along with representatives from Coliban Water, North Central Catchment Authority, Parks Victoria, students from Langley and Newham Primary Schools and representatives from the sixteen Landcare Groups that comprise the Network.

The Strategic Plan was generously funded by grants from the Norman Wettenhall Foundation and Victorian Landcare.

The Network will now begin outlining how we will move forward towards the goals outlined in the Plan. Congratulations to all those who worked so hard on it!

http://www.elliottmidnews.com.au/story/3078721/braving-the-elements-landcare-heads-to-the-river-to-launch-strategic-plan/

UCLN Memebrs and MP Mary-Anne THomas with the newly unveiled Strategic Plan on the banks of the Campapse at Langley.

MOTHERS DAY PLANTING ON THE CAMPASPE RIVER AT KYNETON

Una Burke, Jesse Smith, Marigold Bickford, Jem Burke, Sophie Bickford and Liana Spoke preparing for the Trees For Mum planting event in the Kyneton Botanic Garden .
The event was hosted by the Campapse River Land Management Group as a way to celebrate and commemorate mums. Una said .”I’d like to plant a tree for my mum because my mum’s really lovely to me and I want to do something to make her remember this Mothers Day.”

About 40 people braved rain and cold conditions to honour their mums this Mother’s Day by planting a tree for her on the Campaspe River in the Kyneton Botanic Gardens. Free trees were also available  from the Woodend Landcare Group to be planted at home.

Trees for Mum is a National Landcare Event and open to anyone who would like to plant a tree for their mum, or take part in the event with their mother or grandmother, whilst doing something for the Environment.

Trees for Mum was first started in Sydney in 2002 by friends and colleagues, Deena Raphael and Lauren Adlam, as a way of paying tribute to their mums, who they had both lost to cancer.

Since then more than 20,000 trees have been planted at Trees for Mums events across Australia as tributes to mothers who have passed away or to celebrate those who are still alive.

Campaspe River Land Management Group has worked for over twenty years clearing weeds and planting natives along the Campaspe River behind Kyneton, and they hosted the day as part of their “A River Runs Through It” project to remove willows and plant natives along the Campapse River near Kyneton.

“This is a way for all users along the river –cyclists, walkers and residents, to help restore the health of the river environs where it flows through Kyneton” said Don Smith, member of Campaspe River Land Management Group.  “Revegetation works will help ensure good outcomes for our local river and will also complement the North Central Catchment Managements Caring for Campaspe Program.” Don added.

“We’re excited to be hosting the Trees for Mum event in Kyneton this year” said Jessie Smith of the Campaspe River Working Group.

“We’ll be planting along the river walk in Kyneton as part of our on-going work to encourage native wildlife and make the area an enjoyable place to visit” added Mrs Smith.

 http://www.elliottmidnews.com.au/story/3054738/plant-a-tree-for-mum/

NEST BOXES INSTALLED AT BALD HILL

Austin and Oliver May (4 and 6 yrs old) were thrilled to be part of a team of people at Bald Hill Reserve on Saturday installing nest boxes for sugar gliders and phascogales. They are seen here with their mother Amanda May. Members of Friends of Bald Hill and the Environmental Officer of Macedon Ranges Shire Council, William Terry, installed 7 boxes on the day, which were made by the Woodend Mens Shed.

Austin and Oliver May (4 and 6 yrs old) were thrilled to be part of a team of people at Bald Hill Reserve on Saturday installing nest boxes for sugar gliders and phascogales. They are seen here with the Environmental Officer of Macedon Ranges Shire Council, William Terry. Seven nest boxes were installed on the day, which were made by the Woodend Mens Shed. The Friends group will work with council to install more in the coming months in an effort to increase the population of the gliders and phascogales.

Manu helps out with the installation of Nest Boxes at Bald Hill Reserve.

CARLSRUHE BEGINS BIOLINK

Hanne Juul and Bill Taylor examine some of the trees they previously planted on the John Morieson Biolink in Carlsruhe.

Bill Taylor from Carlsruhe Landcare on the John Morieson Biolink in Carlsruhe. The group aims to link their planting with the Cobaw State

 

 

LODDON PRISON LANDMATE PROJECT

 

 

I met with staff from Corrections Victoria and DEWLP to discuss the possibility of Landcare  projects working with the Landmate program,which is run by Corrections Victoria (out of Lodden Prison in our area)

Rural communities across Victoria have benefited from the Landmate program , which has worked successfully for over 20 years. It is a joint program between DELWP  and Corrections Victoria.

Landmate crews consist of 8 to 10 minimum security prisoners working on environmental activities. They are supervised by qualified and experienced prison staff equipped with four wheel drives, chainsaws, fencing equipment, spraying equipment and tools.

They are experienced at fencing, weed removal, planting and vermin control, erosion control amongst other activities and have all necessary certifications.

Apart from the environmental benefits the program makes an important contribution to prisoner rehabilitation, with prisoners developing their life and employment skills and learning to work as a team. The purpose of the program is to provide labour for environmental and land management activities on private and public land, with an emphasis on broader environmental activities.

There is a cost of $400 day of the team, but it is very good value for money as the teams are efficient and very capable.

A team will soon be helping Langley Landcare to replace plantings lost earlier this year in the fires. They will also be helping with planting at the Carlsruhe Biolink and undertaking works at Hanging Rock for Newham Landcare.

If you are interested in being involved in the program please contact me. I will then put you in touch with the relevant person. Aside from the initial consultation with the supervisor, Landcare people do not have to attend the work whilst it is being undertaken, but just be a contact person explaining what needs to be done. A quick google search should convince you of how successful this program has been!

 

 

Fox control, Central Vic style.

 

BLACK HILL ARTS PROJECT

 

 

Robert Pearse from Langley Landcare looks out form the top of Black Hill Reserve. An exciting new arts project is planned for the area.

An exciting new Arts project will soon to be chosen to celebrate Black Hill Reserve and the community that cares for it. Regional Arts Victoria and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council called for expressions of interest from artists.

The responses have been narrowed down to two after consultation with members of Friends Of Black Hill, Regional Arts Vic and MRSC. One of the final proposals is a photographic light show project and the other a sculpture project. Both would involve working with the Langley School.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 UCLN MEETS WITH THE MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT, LAND AND WATER THE HON LISA NEVILLE

 

UCLN members show the Minister for Environment,Climate Change and Water the beginnings of a biolink at Newham.

Our Network was invited to meet with the Minister when she was in our area last week. We showed her a biolink project being undertaken by Newham Landcare (while three wedgetail eagles flew above) then met with her later in the day in Trentham. Barry Elliot, Alan Denehey, Sophie Bickford, Amanda May and myself spoke to her for half an hour, while in true Trentham style it snowed outside.

We explained to her the work that the individual groups in our Network undertake and gave her a briefing on the contents of the Strategic Plan, which we presented to her during the meeting. We spoke about how Landcare activities in our area are not just about sustainable agriculture, soil health, protection of riparian areas and weed removal, but also about creating wildlife corridors and bioinks and linking people. Sophie Bickford, who is on our committee and also from Central Victorian Biolinks explained how the work we intend to do creating biolinks, will tie in with larger projects within Central Victoria to protect and connect remnant vegetation.

It was a fantastic opportunity to let her know of the important work we are dong and how vital it is to continue funding this work.

For local media on the visit go to http://www.elliottmidnews.com.au/story/3132223/rock-review-to-begin/

 

 

FAREWELL TO LANDCARE PIONEER JOAN KIRNER

 

In 2014 Joan said that “Landcare was built on sustainability. It’s now national and international. And it’s based on community ownership of community change principle. I’m very proud of Landcare.”

The principles of local action, practical solutions, and working together are her legacy and still guide Landcare today.

 

Joan Kirner at the Launch of Landcare 25th November 1986 with Alan Malcolm, Joan Kirner, Minister For Conservation,and Andrew Cameron from the Victorian Farmers Federation.  Photo source:Landcare in Victoria by Rob Youl,via Victorian Dep.Archives.

 

 

 

The article below appeared in a Landlink publication recently and may be of interest to many of you as it explains Joan Kirner’s involvement in the foundation of Landcare.

 

It is with fondness and admiration that we remember Joan Kirner today as an inspirational figure for many, and a true Landcare pioneer.

Joan Kirner will undoubtedly be remembered as Victoria’s first female premier, however she will also be remembered in the heart of every Landcarer as an innovative politician, who recognised the value and importance of implementing Landcare as a policy – leading to its adoption as a national initiative years later.

Minister for Conservation, Forests and Lands at the time, Joan Kirner worked together with Heather Mitchell, then president of the Victorian Farmers Federation to spearhead the initiative. Through this partnership, Joan learnt that there was a pressing need to develop a program that would reverse the degradation of farmland, public land and our waterways.

A story recounted in Andrew Campbell’s book, “Landcare – Communities Shaping the Land and the Future”, outlines how the name Landcare came about.

A group of staff tasked with drafting a proposal for a program based on neighbourhood groups, tossed around some names and proposed to Joan Kirner, the name ‘Total Land Care’. The story goes that Joan Kirner retorted that she did not want to be known as “The Minister for TLC”, so it became simply ‘LandCare.’

With the generous support of community members, farmers and Departmental officers, Heather Mitchell and Joan Kirner were able to launch ‘Landcare’ in central Victoria in 1985. By the end of 1986 there were about ten LandCare groups in Victoria. By 1989, LandCare was launched as a national program, and today, there are upwards of 5,000 groups across the country.

Joan Kirner continued to support Landcare throughout her lifetime, and just before her death wrote to the editor of the Landcare magazine and said -“As an early participant in the creation of Landcare, I felt that I had to write and tell you how delighted I am with the program, its longevity, results and the new initiative in Indigenous Landcare. My former colleague, the late Heather Mitchell would be delighted too! Please pass on my congratulations to all landcarers.”

Below are two articles that have been written about Joan Kirner’s involvement with Landcare for those who would like to learn more about her involvement with the Landcare movement.

Victorian Landcare Website –http://www.landcarevic.net.au/news/vale-joan-kirner

• Weekly Times – http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/news/politics/joan-kirner-remembered-as-architect-of-landcare/story-fnkerdda-1227379531996
• The Conversation – https://theconversation.com/joan-kirner-united-farmers-and-conservationists-to-care-for-the-land-42746

 

 

 

2015 State & Territory Landcare Awards

 

Celebrate a local Landcare project or hero!

Nominations are open in Victoria until June 21st.
Celebrating a silver milestone this year, the awards celebrate the achievements of Landcare across a number of diverse areas, including sustainable farming, Coastcare, Junior Landcare, Indigenous land management, and more.

With nine national categories to choose from, you’ll find one to fit any kind of Landcare project or local hero, and all winners at a State and Territory level will proceed as finalists to the 2016 National Landcare Awards.

If you are involved in protecting or improving your local environment, farm, coastline, bushland, wetland, waterway, school, region, catchment or backyard, there is a category in this year’s awards to suit you.

To nominate, please go to the online entry portal . You will need to set up an account in the portal, which will allow you to save your entry as you go, and finish it at a later stage. Refer to the ‘entry requirements ’ and ‘entry rules and conditions ’ documents for detailed guidelines, terms and conditions relating to all entries.

Entries close in  Victoria on June 21st

Who Can Enter?

Anyone involved in projects that care for our land or water is welcome to apply.  Landcare is a movement of individuals and groups focusing on managing the environment in their local area. Within the Landcare Awards, the term ‘Landcare’ refers to all groups, individuals, organisations and activities that care for the land.  This includes, but is not limited to: Landcare, Coastcare, Bushcare, Dunecare, Rivercare, ‘Friends of’ groups, farmers, professional farming systems groups, natural resource management, Junior Landcare (including day care centres, primary and secondary schools, youth groups, scout groups, etc.), Urban Landcare and Indigenous Landcare.

National Categories

There are nine national categories, which are open to each state and territory – aside from ACT, where the Coastcare category isn’t available.  Some states and territories also have their own additional categories. Please click on the list below for a summary of each category.  Please see the online entry portal for detailed criteria for each category or download the entry brochure for each state or territory in the coordinator section below.

• Australian Government Individual Landcarer
• Australian Government Landcare Facilitator or Coordinator
• Australian Government Innovation in Sustainable Farm Practices
• Australian Government Partnerships with Landcare
• Coastcare Award
• Junior Landcare Team
• Young Landcare Leader
• Indigenous Land Management
• Landcare Community Group

Victoria

Landcare Network Award – $500
This award will be made to an outstanding Landcare network that is working towards sustainable land use through the development or adoption of sound land management practices on public or private land, and/or is undertaking on-ground work to protect, enhance or restore a significant area on behalf of the community.

Dr. Sidney Plowman Travel and Study Award – $4,000
The Dr. Sidney Plowman Travel and Study Award will be awarded to one employee of the Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning (DELWP), Department of Economic Development, Jobs Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) or a Victorian Catchment Management Authority.

VFF/FTLA Heather Mitchell Memorial Fellowship – $4,000
The Heather Mitchell Memorial Fellowship is open to community members and Landcare support staff (i.e. Landcare facilitators, coordinators, project officers) of Victorian Landcare (or other community-based NRM) groups or networks. The Fellowship is not open to State Government employees.

Your 2015 State & Territory Landcare Award Coordinators

 

VICYvonne Ryczkowski Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning Ph: 03 9637 8480 E: cel.hub@delwp.vic.gov.auDownload the VIC Landcare Awards brochure here.

 

 

 

 

Pasture Management & Multi-species Pasture Cropping Field Day 16 June 2015

Baynton Hall

 

The North Central Catchment Management Authority is hosting a Pasture Management & Multi-species Pasture Cropping Field Day at the Baynton Hall on Tuesday 16 June from 9.00 am – 4.00 pm.

 

At the field day you can:

• Hear from the pioneer of pasture cropping.
• Learn more about grazing management.
• Find out how these innovative techniques can increase on-farm productivity.
• Visit local farm site.

 

Participants will hear from Colin Sies, founder of pasture cropping. Multi-species pasture cropping uses a group of plant species that produce good quality forage, have a range of different root systems, includes legume species, flowering plants and species that will add to organic matter on the soil surface and in the soil as root mass.

 

Multi-species pasture cropping involves sowing several different plant species with similar growing times – instead of sowing one species into dormant grassland – with the aim of producing better quality forage and improving soil health. Colin will be joined by Graeme Hand who is passionate about regenerating perennial pastures and grasslands using planned grazing management.

 

Graeme has a special interest in working with family farms, to manage holistically, helping to create profitable, regenerative farm businesses which are enjoyable to work in.

 

To RSVP, or for more information and a flyer, go to the North Central CMA website HERE.

 

Free event: the geology of Hanging Rock – Sunday 14 June by woodendlandcare How did Hanging Rock form? How big was it at birth? How long until it erodes to nothing? For the answers to these questions and more, join the Friends of Hanging Rock for a tour and presentation on the fascinating geology of Hanging Rock, led by Professor David Philips, Head of the School of Earth Sciences at University of Melbourne. All welcome; no reservations necessary. 11:00 am – 12:30 pm, Sunday 14 June The Hut, Hanging Rock Reserve (The Hut is 100m north of the Hanging Rock Café)

 

 

 

And finally  The May edition of the North Central chat is now available on the Victorian Landcare Gateway website.