VICTORIAN

Autumn 2012 Issue 54 & C atc h ment M anag ement

INVASIVE PLANTS AND ANIMALS FEATURE Banishing bridal creeper Fox baiting for biodiversity Weed control on the urban fringe Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management

A u t u m n 2 0 1 2 I s s u e 5 4

9 Contents

03 From the Minister

04 Banishing bridal creeper The story of how a shire and a Landcare group are working with local students to eradicate bridal creeper from the Echuca area.

07 Sallow wattle targeted The Laharum Landcare Group has joined forces with Conservation Volunteers Australia to tackle sallow wattle north west of the Grampians.

08 Is your pretty garden plant a noxious weed? Find out how to identify some of the state’s very worst weeds. Hawkweed (Hieracium genus). 12 Tackling serrated tussock in the north east A review of a long-term project to control serrated tussock within the Indigo Shire has some good lessons for designing effective weed control projects.

14 18 Fox baiting program a win-win for productivity and the environment Two conservation management networks in the Goulburn Broken catchment have been successful at using a whole of landscape approach to fox control.

20 Collaborative weed control on the urban fringe The Urban Fringe Weed Management Initiative is attempting to achieve better weed control by building effective partnerships between government agencies, local councils and the community.

22 Around the State News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators.

Work experience student Caleb Barlow surrounded by gorse near Yarram.

18 Editorial Advisory Committee This publication is copyright. No part may be Karen Brisbane Victorian State Landcare Team, reproduced by any process except in accordance Melissa Whitelaw Landcare Australia Limited, with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Tracey Koper Victorian Catchment Management Authorised by the Victorian Government, Council, Katie Eldridge DPI, Susi Johnson FTLA, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. Jessica Barnes DSE, Cathy Heycock DSE. Editorial contributions ISSN 1327 5496 Carrie Tiffany, PO Box 1135, The State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee Mitcham North 3132 Phone 0405 697 548 that this publication is without flaw of any kind or is E-mail: [email protected] wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and Cover photograph therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other A fox near a cape weed covered rabbit warren consequences which may arise from you relying on any on a hillside at Gooram, by Joshua Smith. information in this publication. A red fox in the box ironbark forests of © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability The State of Victoria acknowledges contributions made by the Goulburn Broken catchment. and Environment 2012. private enterprise and other persons or groups interested in Landcare. Acceptance of these contributions, however, does not endorse or imply endorsement by the State of Victoria of any product, service, or view offered by contributors.

2 | victorian landcare and catchment management From the Minister

Another exciting issue of the magazine, with our environment. The Victorian Coalition successful in the Victorian Local Landcare something for everyone – I’m particularly Government values Landcare for its Facilitators Initiative. This initiative provides interested in the inspirational stories on strong community linkages and positive funding for an additional 60 Landcare the groups and networks tackling invasive relationships with government and facilitators across Victoria. It’s terrific to see plants and animals. The way we manage business. that these positions are currently being this issue is really important and I hope you filled and that they will provide additional Contributing to Landcare’s success are get as much out of the articles as I have. support for the great work that Landcare the facilitators who play an important role does every day. We often see the most successful results in helping secure funding for projects and from projects like this, involving partnerships providing support to Landcare groups During a visit to the North East CMA between landholders, community groups on project development, management, region in February, I had the chance to and public land managers. communication and administration. meet with the Friends of Willow Park. It was great to be out and about getting It’s these strong, effective partnerships In December 2011, I had the pleasure of to know the people delivering such great that deliver real on-ground results for announcing the 60 organisations that were results for the environment. The trip also included a visit to some local wetlands and catch ups with those working on local projects such as Waterwatch and with the Rutherglen Landcare Group. I share their view on how important community partnerships are and look forward to working closely with them, and you, in the future. Congratulations are due to the four Victorian Landcarers who received medals of the Order of Australia in the 2012 Australia Day honours list. Lindsay Smith of Horsham was recognised for his service to conservation, the environment and the community in the Wimmera, while Barry Clugston of Stawell received his medal for service to regional Victoria through water industry and environmental organisations. Rob Youl has been involved in Landcare since the early 1980s and is the chair of Australian Landcare International. Sue Marriott was recognised for her service to conservation and the environment through the Secretariat for International Landcare. The dedication and commitment they have shown to Landcare is inspiring and we have all benefited from their efforts.

Ryan Smith From left, Julie Hind from the Friends of Willow Park, Emma Nilsson from the North East CMA Minister for Environment and and Victorian Environment Minister Ryan Smith testing water quality at Willow Park, Wodonga. Climate Change

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 3 Banishing bridal creeper –

VCAL students lead the way By Rhonda Day

Tackling a weed as serious as bridal creeper – one of Australia’s 20 Weeds of National Significance – requires dedication and lateral thinking. This is the story of how a shire and a Landcare group worked with local students on a project to eradicate bridal creeper from the Echuca area.

Bridal creeper is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential for spread and economic and environmental impacts. Originally entering the country as a garden plant, it can grow on a wide range of soils, preferring sandy, well-drained soils with good moisture. The plant dies back over summer – but don’t let it fool you, it will return from its vigorous root system, which accounts for over 85 per cent of the plant’s bulk. Bridal creeper is a perennial climber or scrambler, growing up to three metres high, with long, wiry stems. It has glossy green leaves and thick mat of underground fleshy tubers – these impede root growth of other plants and prevent native seedlings from establishing. In 2007 the Echuca Landcare Group and the Shire of Campaspe identified major infestations along the Campaspe River within the Echuca township. Biological control was seen as the best way forward, taking into account the individual patches of bridal creeper and extensive costs involved with other methods of control (chemical and mechanical). In 2007 the Echuca East Primary School participated in a State Government Weed Warriors program, breeding leafhoppers and releasing them beside the Campaspe River. The leafhopper (Zygina sp.) was the first natural enemy of bridal creeper to be released in Australia. They have proven to be effective locally, but results have been sporadic. Although the children thoroughly Echuca Landcare Group and VCAL students worked together to make rust fungus spore enjoyed working on the project, there are water and sprayed it on bridal creeper infestations last year. now minimal signs of hopper impact in the release area. for release in Australia in 2000. It is host In 2008 the bridal creeper leaf beetle Hoppers, beetles and fungus… specific, will not attack any economically was also released but was soon ruled out important or native plant species and is the as a future control method as it has only Later in 2007 DPI Frankston, in conjunction second natural enemy of bridal creeper persisted at one site across Australia. with the Shire of Campaspe and the to be released in Australia. Rust fungus Echuca Landcare Group, made rust fungus In early 2010 five students in the St affects the vigour of bridal creeper plants, spore water to spray on infestations. Rust Joseph’s College Victorian Certificate of reducing growth and seed production. fungus (Puccinia myrsiphylli) was approved Applied Learning (VCAL) program engaged

4 | victorian landcare and catchment management The 2012 VCAL group will continue with the project, assisting with revegetation and community awareness. The students have been invaluable to the project and illustrated a real commitment to the local environment.

Rust fungus at work on a bridal creeper infestation. in a bridal creeper mapping project. After In March 2011 the VCAL student The 2012 VCAL group will continue with an in-class presentation and field visit to group marked out quadrants, recorded the project, assisting with revegetation give them some background the students information and took photographs. In April and community awareness. The students mapped infestations along the western side National Bridal Creeper Co-ordinator have been invaluable to the project and of the Campaspe River through Echuca. Shauna Potter and DPI bio-control expert illustrated a real commitment to the local The students noted any impacts on native Greg Lefoe presented a community session environment. The Shire of Campaspe and vegetation, fauna, other weeds and visible on the methods of biological control. St Joseph’s College Echuca were awarded signs of previous biological control. They the 2010 VCAL State Partnership Award In June the students physically removed found infestations of bridal creeper had for excellence in the category of VCAL bridal creeper plants, ensuring all tubers increased significantly over four years, but partnerships. were taken from underground and the that in the areas where rust fungus had plants were bagged for disposal. Within The Echuca Landcare Group is also keen been sprayed in 2007, it was having an each quadrant, indigenous grasses and to continue the project. They aim to effect on infestations. groundcover species were planted. involve Echuca Secondary College students The student group presented its findings to Over coming months the quadrants were in 2012 and work to raise awareness of shire representatives, the Echuca Landcare monitored and by the end of the year, this terrible weed for future years, with the Group, school teachers, family and friends. no bridal creeper plants had grown back. aim of eradicating it from the area forever. The VCAL mapping project helped to The VCAL students purchased equipment For further information contact determine the extent of infestations and for making rust fungus spore water and Rhonda Day on 5481 2804 or visit guide future direction for control and infected plants for making spore water www.weeds.gov.au applications for funding. were sourced near Murrabit. A community A Caring for our Country bid was successful spore water making session was held and the Banishing Bridal Creeper Project – in August with VCAL students, Echuca co-ordinated by the Shire of Campaspe and Landcare Group, Campaspe Shire and the Echuca Landcare Group – got underway. Parks Victoria staff and members of the public attending and learning how to The aims of the project were to trial spray spore water on bridal creeper various methods of control to determine infestations. Results in the months following the best for the area – physical removal, were pleasing, with plants showing clear biological (using rust fungus), chemical or evidence of rust fungus. fire. The target was to remove and/or control 50 per cent of bridal creeper in the A local contractor was engaged in the project area by June 2012. spring to spray large sections of the project Student research underway area. There was strong evidence in the months following to suggest this had a Very little research had been undertaken detrimental effect on the bridal creeper. into methods of control in inland Victoria. An infestation of bridal creeper growing A hot burn is planned for autumn 2012 The project area was split into four areas up a eucalypt in the Echuca area. to see what effects this has on the plants. with control methods trialled in each.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 5 Careful management is needed where erosion and weed infestations can occur after soil disturbance.

Rabbit Buster co-ordinator Simone Ulstrup discusses harbour destruction works with excavator operators Shorty Terrip (left) and Michael Kopanica. Long-term rabbit busting

in the Strathbogie Ranges By Janet Hagen

The Hughes Creek Catchment and government in the Hughes Creek “An integrated control program is essential, Collaborative Landcare Network has been catchment has been over $1.6 million. follow up shooting, poisoning and fumigation co-ordinating the Rabbit Buster Program are all tools that are used in a co-ordinated In the early days farmers ripped warrens in the granite country of the southern way to support the initial warren destruction.” with their own tractors. Today heavy duty Strathbogie Ranges for 18 years. Over this Greg Wood from DPI has supported the time the area has changed from rabbit and excavators with specialised tynes are hired Rabbit Buster Program by introducing bracken infested marginal farmland to prime to deep-rip warrens. Bracken removal with hard hitting compliance projects targeting real estate with high biodiversity values. herbicide is no longer used as remnant bracken is considered to be wildlife habitat 100 properties in rabbit hot spots each The Landcare network has played a large rather than rabbit harbour, but blackberry year. This strategy has been very effective part in reducing the number of rabbits bushes are still controlled each year. in convincing non co-operative property in the landscape through the delivery of owners to join the program. the Rabbit Buster Program. The program The need to balance harbour destruction According to the current Rabbit Buster has involved employing a dedicated with the protection of native species co-ordinator, Simone Ulstrup, the challenge co-ordinator and control measures such habitat, especially on fragile rocky outcrops, for coming years will be eradicating the as 1080 carrot campaigns, warren ripping, is an issue. Careful management is needed rabbits that are surviving along roadsides, in harbour removal, co-ordinated shooting where erosion and weed infestations can heaps of fallen timber or under buildings. days and education. occur after soil disturbance. More is being learnt each year on how to control rabbits “We need to control these rabbits before Harbour removal and warren destruction in high value biodiversity areas; for example they re-populate the landscape. New have been successful in reducing rabbits making sure native grasses are supplied to techniques are needed as we can’t use heavy from the plague numbers of over 128 per be sown over the ripped area. machinery in these areas,” Simone said. kilometre transect in 1994 to manageable numbers of less than 4 per kilometre President of the Landcare network and For further information contact transect in 2011. The total investment excavator contractor Michael Kopanica Tony Kubeil at the Goulburn Broken to date on rabbit control by landholders feels strongly about rabbit control. CMA on 5761 1619.

6 | victorian landcare and catchment management Sallow wattle produces huge numbers of seeds annually, particularly with disturbance, and the hard-coated seeds can remain viable for decades.

A Conservation Volunteers Australia group from Woodcroft College in South Australia removing sallow wattle on a property at Laharum. Laharum Landcare Group tackles sallow wattle By Joel Boyd

The Laharum Landcare Group has joined According to Laharum Landcare Group forces with Conservation Volunteers president Bruce McInnes sallow wattle has Australia (CVA) to target sallow wattle become a major problem in burnt areas of on more than 6000 hectares of privately the Grampians, spreading along waterways The McInnes property at Wartook. owned bushland north west of the with last year’s major floods. Grampians National Park in the Wimmera. The sallow wattle project is supported “Physical removal of the plant takes a lot of by the Wimmera CMA and the wider time and energy and the good work and Wimmera Landcare community. support of Gail Weston and her team at CVA has been tremendous,” Bruce said. Sallow wattle is an invader of heathlands, control program for sallow wattle which woodlands and riparian habitats. It tolerates The Laharum Landcare Group area south we will extend to all uncropped land a wide range of soil types, exposed positions of Horsham is a cropping and grazing abutting the Grampians National Park in the and seasonal dry spells. The ability of area, with cut-flower plantations, vineyards Laharum Landcare Group area,” Bruce said. sallow wattle to fix nitrogen has allowed and olive groves. Some landholders have According to CVA project officer Gail it to invade nutrient-poor environments placed covenants on their land and the Weston the CVA aims to meet the needs such as the northern Grampians. area has high native riparian vegetation and waterway values. The area is an important of a range of groups by engaging them Sallow wattle produces huge numbers link between the upper Wimmera in activities that have positive outcomes of seeds annually, particularly with catchment, the Grampians, the Wimmera for the natural environment, the local disturbance, and the hard-coated seeds can Heritage River corridor and the threatened community, families and individuals. remain viable for decades. The nutrient ecological vegetation communities of the “Laharum’s sallow wattle project is a really enrichment caused by sallow wattle is south-west Wimmera. good example of that,” Gail said. altering the heathlands of the Grampians and causing secondary weed invasion by “Through our experience on private For further information contact Joel Boyd introduced grasses. covenanted land we are developing a at the Wimmera CMA on 5382 1544.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 7 Is your pretty garden plant a noxious weed?

Just like a strawberry sending out a runner, plants are designed to move into new areas and take over ground to ensure their ongoing survival. Unfortunately, many of the attributes that have made plants attractive for gardeners to buy – drought tolerance, hardiness and rapid growth – are also often the same attributes of the very worst weeds in Victoria.

In 2003 a number of garden plants were Knotweed (Fallopia japonica, declared as state prohibited weeds under Fallopia sachalinensis, Fallopia the Catchment and Land Protection Act x bohemica) 1994. These plants are prohibited from Knotweeds are fast growing, semi-woody sale because they pose a significant risk to perennials that can form dense leafy our waterways, food production, parks and thickets and smother understorey species. social values. Knotweeds flower in summer with most of the foliage dying back over winter. The The following state prohibited weeds have long-lived rhizomes grow to six metres been in trade prior to 2003 and may still in depth and spread 20 metres laterally. be found in gardens today. Knotweeds can also grow from small fragments or cuttings. In Scotland, mortgages have been denied for properties containing knotweed infestations as the plant can damage building structures. There has been no recorded damage to houses in Victoria at this stage. In 2011 a keen eyed DPI officer noticed a knotweed plant growing on a roadside at Beech Forest in the Otway Ranges. The single plant, extending three metres high and seven metres wide, straddled a roadside culvert. A survey of the area indicated no other infestations. The plant was treated by DPI and the site will be continually monitored for any re-emergence. Mexican feather grass (Nassella tenuissima) Mexican feather grass is a hardy drought- tolerant tussock that is unpalatable to stock. In 2008, Mexican feather grass was inadvertently sold by a number of Mexican feather grass retail stores in Victoria. DPI was able to recover around 80 per cent of the seed and plants that were sold; however, there Hawkweed (Hieracium genus) are still potentially 800 properties that have Hawkweeds are a highly invasive Mexican feather grass. species that can tolerate a wide range Discoveries in the last two years have of temperatures and growing conditions shown that gardens where Mexican including full sun, part shade, frost or snow. feather grass has seeded have a lot of Three species of hawkweed (king devil, new plants emerging and in some cases orange and mouse-ear hawkweed) have Knotweed lawns have been covered with this naturalised to a limited extent in Victoria’s invasive plant. alpine regions at Falls Creek and Mt Buller.

8 | victorian landcare and catchment management Is your pretty garden plant a noxious weed? By Sarah Partington

Hawkweeds have harmed biodiversity Good progress is being made by the group values in the alpine areas of New Zealand’s and a decrease in the total number of South Island, and have the potential for infestation sites has been recorded. similar damage to Victoria’s highlands. In the lower altitude areas of Victoria, A Victorian alpine group has formed to hawkweeds have been found in Ballarat, co-ordinate hawkweed eradication at Bacchus Marsh, Melbourne, Foster and Falls Creek and Mt Buller. This group Trentham. includes representatives from DPI, Parks Horsetail (entire Equisetum genus) Victoria, the resort management boards Horsetails have the potential to become and ski lift companies. Weekly surveillance, a persistent weed in wetlands and other monitoring and treatment are undertaken low-lying areas in southern Australia. All from November to March each year to species are thought to contain chemicals coincide with the key flowering period. that are toxic to livestock.

Horsetail

Horsetails have extensive underground root systems that allow them to travel up to two metres in depth and 100 metres laterally. Horsetails have been known to grow through bitumen and concrete. Horsetails, sometimes mistaken as bamboo, were very popular in the 1990s as a garden plant. Other declared state prohibited weeds that could be in your garden include alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides), water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and salvinia (Salvinia molesta). For a full list and pictures of state prohibited weeds in Victoria go to www.dpi.vic.gov.au/weeds If you suspect you have seen any of these state prohibited weeds contact DPI immediately on 136 186 with details of where the plant is located. DPI will arrange for the safe treatment and removal of the Hawkweed plant at no cost to the landholder.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 9 Building nest boxes attracts

new volunteers to Landcare By Sue Wansbrough

Distress at the number of trees destroyed by the 2009 fires motivated the Monbulk Landcare Group to undertake a nest box building project in their local community.

The project was funded by a Landcare Volunteer Recruitment Initiative grant and as well as providing homes for native animals it has attracted new volunteers to Landcare.

Initially the project started by building 100 nest boxes with Bayswater Bunnings and Bayswater Secondary College, with the nest boxes being built in the Bayswater Bunnings store. This program is now into its second year and has expanded further with the Ringwood branch of the Students from Bayswater Secondary College built nest boxes at Bayswater Bunnings Salvation Army and Billanook College in for the Monbulk Landcare Group. Mooroolbark also offering their assistance and contributing to a further 43 nest boxes. In a six-month period we were able to An excursion, courtesy of Rob Fallon build, install and monitor 143 nest boxes. from the Shire of Yarra Ranges, took a We focused heavily on providing larger Salvation Army group into a bushfire boxes suitable for greater and yellow area and provided insights for them bellied gliders as there is concern that into the plight of our native fauna. these species are disappearing. We have A talk given to students at Belgrave Heights also provided boxes for crimson rosellas, Christian School encouraged them to get brushtail possums, feathertail gliders, involved. The school has now built 20 The project has had a kookaburras and sugar gliders. boxes along the creek line adjacent to their strong community education The boxes were mainly installed on school. The school has also approached the component. The environmental public land, but some were placed local council about setting up a new friends on private land adjacent to wildlife group to operate along their creek frontage. volunteers’ stand at the corridors. Alex Maisey from the Friends As the project has unfolded and more and of Sassafras Creek Lyrebird Survey Group more people became interested we were Kallista Market was used has mapped the boxes and has taken on able to attract new funding. The Shire the enormous task of monitoring them to showcase the importance of Yarra Ranges has funded an infrared into the future. Alex’s assistance, along camera on a stick to be shared between of nest boxes and provide with Vicki Boyle from the Southern the different environmental groups for Dandenongs Landcare Group, has been information to people wanting monitoring the nest boxes. invaluable to the project. to learn how to build them. The project has had a very positive response The project has had a strong community from our partners and the community. education component. The environmental We are keen to continue it into the future. volunteers’ stand at the Kallista Market was used to showcase the importance of nest For further information contact boxes and provide information to people Sue Wansbrough by email at wanting to learn how to build them. [email protected]

10 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Bitou bush is one of By Sue Wansbrough Australia’s 20 weeds of national significance. It is a highly competitive weed that smothers and out-competes native vegetation, totally eliminating native ecosystems.

Contractors with experience in weed control in extreme locations are being used to remove Bitou bush at Davey’s Bay. Bitou bush project requires

extreme weed removal By Simon Denby

Hanging from cliffs using rope climbing “We have the opportunity to remove equipment isn’t the usual method for this population of Bitou bush for good removing weeds, but drastic measures are because it is a relatively small and isolated required when you are dealing with one of population,” Anne said. the worst weeds in Australia. An infestation of Bitou bush in coastal NSW. Bitou bush is one of Australia’s 20 weeds DSE, in partnership with Frankston City of national significance. It is a highly Council and the Shire of Mornington competitive weed that smothers and Peninsula, are working to eradicate out-competes native vegetation, totally the noxious weed Bitou bush along a eliminating native ecosystems. The Davey’s 1.3-kilometre stretch of Crown land Bay infestation is one of two located in between Frankston and Mount Eliza. Victoria. The other, at Bastion Point in spreads easily from seed and debris and Mallacoota, is also being treated as part of people should not attempt to remove the According to Anne Dennis from DSE the the project. plants themselves. eradication program will take place on the steep coastal land between Davey’s Bay “The work is part of a national strategy to The project is being undertaken in Yacht Club and Olivers Hill. control Bitou bush and will be carried out partnership with Frankston City Council, over the next three years. We will then the Shire of Mornington Peninsula, East “Because of the nature of the terrain monitor the sites for the next 7 to 10 Gippsland Shire, East Gippsland CMA this plant grows on, we are using some years to ensure the infestation has been and Parks Victoria with funding provided extreme measures – including employing completely eradicated,” Anne said. through the Caring for our Country contractors to use rope climbing initiative and support from the Victorian equipment to access the steep cliffs. The community is encouraged to report Government. The plants will be cut off at the base and Bitou bush in and around their own poisoned to minimise soil disturbance, and property in both the Davey’s Bay and For further information or to report then disposed of at quarantine landfill to Mallacoota areas. DSE can provide suspected Bitou bush call the Bitou prevent the spread of seeds. assistance with removal. Bitou bush bush hotline on 0467 734 174.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 11 Tackling serrated tussock in the north east – some lessons learned

By Shay Simpson Serrated tussock is a regionally prohibited weed and one of the 20 weeds of national significance due to its invasiveness, potential for spread and economic and environmental impacts. Serrated tussock currently affects 82,000 hectares of Victoria. In the north east catchment serrated tussock is limited to 14 known sites, all within Indigo Shire. The majority of these outbreaks are located on roadsides, with six having spread into adjoining freehold land. Total eradication at this scale is

difficult, but achievable.

Shay Simpson (left) and Jenny Davison identifying serrated tussock on the Indigo The Rutherglen Chiltern Serrated Tussock The project has focused on securing Gooramadda Road at Rutherglen. Project was set up in 2008 and is due funding for on-ground treatment of to continue until 2015. The project is a roadside infestations, community partnership between local natural resource education including identifying landholders management agencies, council and the in target areas and mail outs of community. It is managed by a project information, supporting DPI to undertake steering committee with representation property inspections, installing roadside from the main stakeholders. enviromarkers to identify infestation areas, and encouraging best practice A recent review of the project has helped to reduce spread. to evaluate progress and provide direction for the remaining four years of the The review’s first recommendation project. The review was commissioned by was that existing mapping data should Indigo Shire Council and funded by Caring be rationalised. Two different sets are for our Country. maintained – one by DPI and one by

The review of the on-ground control works highlighted that although treatment has reduced infestations by up to 80 per cent, eradication is difficult and time-dependent.

Tim Enshaw flags serrated tussock plants to assist with eradication.

12 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Tackling serrated tussock in the north east – some lessons learned

Watch out for serrated tussock

Serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma) its establishment. The weed has a wide available. Formerly productive pastures is a species of tussock-forming grass climatic tolerance, but is most vigorous can be rendered more or less useless that has spread over approximately two in cooler climates with 450–1000 for stock when they are densely infested million hectares of south east Australia. millimetres of annual rainfall. by this weedy grass. Serrated tussock is Climate modelling suggests that the weed known for establishing in native grassland has the potential to infest up to 32 million Serrated tussock is unpalatable to remnants – reducing the conservation hectares. Serrated tussock is similar in livestock, has very low nutritional value, value of this already threatened appearance to many native tussock and will only be eaten if no other feed is vegetation type. grasses which makes identification difficult. Because of this infestations are often well established before it is realised that the plant is a weed. A single plant can produce an estimated 100,000 seeds per year, which can potentially persist in the soil for up to 20 years. Seeds are mainly spread by wind, although it is common for new infestations to be caused by the transport of infected fodder and seeds attached to vehicles. Serrated tussock is drought tolerant with wind-blown seed readily establishing in pasture or grassy woodland communities, especially when areas of bare ground are available. Drought conditions and overgrazing provide ideal conditions for

the spray contractor engaged for roadside knowledge of serrated tussock identification treatment, which is then given to and management. It recommended Indigo Shire. In addition, the future data that one-on-one extension by DPI be requirements need to be clearly defined continued to engage landholders in and to ensure that new mapping is effective. around known infestations. Other recommendations The review of the on-ground control Other recommendations include works highlighted that although treatment continuing with local information stands include continuing with has reduced infestations by up to 80 per run by Landcare groups, developing local information stands cent, eradication is difficult and time- extension materials on preventing weed dependent. Involving the community in incursion into the region, and working to run by Landcare groups, the meticulous monitoring of sites was engage reluctant landholders. developing extension materials suggested. In addition, education regarding the risk of slashing known sites needs to The success of the project to date is due on preventing weed incursion be undertaken in a timely manner. Burning to the effective collaboration of a range could be trialled as a control method and of stakeholders – all sharing responsibility into the region, and working to integrated control for other weed species for eradicating serrated tussock from the engage reluctant landholders. should also occur, particularly in high region. conservation areas. For further information and copies of The review revealed that the project has the evaluation report contact Shay Simpson been effective for increasing community on (02) 6028 1128.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 13 Moyne gorse project brings partners together

By Lisette Mill

The Moyne Weed Eradication Network is part of the St Helens Landcare Group. As the network’s gorse project officer I have recently visited private property holders on the Moyne, Merri and Hopkins Rivers to discuss treatment plans for riparian gorse. The network is running a dollar for dollar funding round for gorse control. Treatment will involve a combination of herbicide and mulching/grooming. The network is aiming A gorse infestation at Rosebrook on the Moyne River. for a title-neutral gorse control program where everyone on the land is responsible them in planning their gorse control along Weed Eradication Network and private for helping each other to treat and remove these waterways and their conduits. landholders are all working together to gorse – including Crown land managers too. tackle the problem,” Richard said. According to Richard Hodgens from The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Flood Recovery Moyne Shire Council an ongoing gorse The network is also hosting a demonstration Employment Program has also provided treatment program has been in place for of an Ecoblade gorse machine on a private assistance to landholders to manually remove roadsides in the area for many years. property where untreated gorse has been emerging gorse seedlings that appeared after growing for ten years. The machine is a heavy “But there is little point in treating a the January 2011 flooding of the Hopkins River. duty slasher that applies chemicals through the thin strip on a public road reserve if blade as it cuts. The network will report the In addition to private landholders, the there are massive patches just over the results of the demonstration to its members. Moyne Weed Eradication Network has fence on private land. This project is an contacted Crown land managers including excellent example of integrated catchment For further information contact V/Line, Victrack, DSE, Warrnambool City management where Council, DSE, Lisette Mill on 0423 792 471 or by Council, and Moyne Shire Council to assist the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, the Moyne email at [email protected] Gorse control gets serious on the

Gippsland coastal plains By Samantha Monks

With the wetter conditions, new and old spring and autumn. A mature bush can gorse infestations are thriving. However, produce over 40,000 seeds from its seed a strong partnership between Yarram pods. Gorse is a highly flammable plant, Yarram Landcare Network and the capable of invading native bushland, Victorian Gorse Taskforce is continuing pastures and plantations. It spreads along to grow following successful funding roadsides, waterways and railways. for the third year of the Gippsland Work experience student Caleb Barlow The Gippsland Coastal Plains Gorse surrounded by gorse near Yarram. Coastal Plains Gorse Control Program. Control Program has significantly The program was developed to help increased community awareness, the local community specifically target momentum and willingness to remove gorse. The priority focus areas are and control gorse across the Yarram to avoid reinfestation on treated areas. Yarram, Alberton, Port Albert, Tarraville, Yarram Landcare Network area. Since Photo-point monitoring is conducted Woodside, Darriman and Seaspray. December 2009, the program has by network staff to help gauge the Gorse (also known as furze) (Ulex treated over 600 hectares of gorse effectiveness of the works. Electronic europaeus) is a weed of national infestations on private land. mapping is being used to track the reduction of gorse cover in the future. significance. The plant was first Participants in the program are eligible introduced to Australia during the to receive funding incentives of 50 per For information and assistance with early 1800s for hedges and ornamental cent towards the cost of physical and/or gorse control in the Yarram Yarram planting. Gorse is a dense spiny shrub chemical removal of gorse. Participants Landcare Network area contact that can grow up to three metres must agree to undertake subsequent Samantha Monks on 5175 7895 or by high. It has yellow pea-type flowers in spraying or removal of gorse regrowth email at [email protected]

14 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Bounty seekers support fox and wild dog control

By Caleb Hurrell

Late last year a $4 million fox and wild dog bounty was announced for Victoria – rewarding hunters for their efforts in fox and wild dog control.

Eligible Victorian hunters can claim a $50 Panyyabyr Landcare Group bounty reward for each wild dog killed leads the way and $10 for each fox killed, subject to the The Panyyabyr Landcare Group fox terms and conditions of the bounty. Eligible baiting program is a good example of participants can submit entire fox scalps at an integrated approach. The program 21 designated fox collection centres and involves repeated pulse fox baiting on DPI Biosecurity Officer Terry Auton completing bounty application forms. wild dog skin pieces at seven designated private property, in timber plantations wild dog collection centres at scheduled and within the Victoria Valley in the collection times. Grampians National Park. According to DPI Biosecurity Officer Terry The public-private land collaboration can get their dogs out in the paddock Auton feedback from bounty seekers has between the Grampians Ark project, and hunt foxes,” Lisa said. been largely positive as claims have been funded through Parks Victoria, and Caring For more information contact processed quickly. for our Country has seen the project DPI on 136 186 or go to “However, a small number of applicants extended beyond its original area to www.dpi.vic.gov.au/bounty continue to present incorrect body parts cover more than 50,000 hectares. for reward and are not eligible to collect Group secretary Lisa McIntyre said the the reward. Applicants for the bounty project is a win-win situation. must provide proof of eligibility which includes photographic identification and “Parks Victoria is happy because control proof of residency in Victoria, land lease on private land limits foxes travelling or membership of a nominated hunting across the valley, entering the national group,” Terry said. park and killing native animals. Private landholders are happy because the impact DPI Biosecurity Manager for Established on their livestock has been reduced.” The Panyyabyr Landcare Invasive Animals John Matthews said Group fox baiting program protecting vulnerable livestock and native Co-ordinated baiting on 91 per cent of animals from the impact of foxes and wild land in the Victoria Valley has been the key is a good example of an dogs required an integrated approach. to the progam’s success. High participation integrated approach. The rates means less work for each individual “This means utilising all available involved and a lower bait density required program involves repeated management practices including on each property. poison baiting, trapping, exclusion pulse fox baiting on fencing, fumigation and appropriate According to Lisa funding for a co-ordinator private property, in timber animal husbandry. Hunting can play an has produced high participation rates. important role in supporting an integrated plantations and within “Door-knocking every property in management approach. the project area has helped to get the the Victoria Valley in the “Sustained and co-ordinated community maximum number of people on board. Grampians National Park. baiting programs implemented at the same Ben Holmes from Parks Victoria has also time, on a landscape scale and supported been great; we couldn’t have done this by other control techniques, remains the without him. And we let local hunters best way of achieving a sustained reduction know when baits have been removed in fox and wild dog numbers,” John said. during the pulse baiting cycle so that they

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 15 In 2006 it was estimated that at least 30 per cent of the property was heavily infested with mature boneseed plants. In 2012 this figure has been reduced to 10 per cent.

Students from St Joseph’s College pulling boneseed at Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary.

Batesford boneseed challenge By George Belcher

Controlling a boneseed infestation has been a major project at the Dog Rocks Flora and Fauna Sanctuary at Batesford, north west of Geelong.

The 83-hectare largely uncleared Invaluable assistance with weed control Boneseed removal has mainly taken property, formerly known as Lilydale and other works has been received from place during the cooler months. Mature House Sanctuary, had become heavily Green Corps, Conservation Volunteers plants have been removed by pulling, infested with boneseed. The property Australia, community volunteers, students digging and cutting and painting, with was placed under a Trust for Nature from St Joseph’s College, Covenant the removed foliage being piled up and covenant in 2006. At the same time we College, Geelong Grammar School and burnt. Where the fire is hot enough, were successful at getting a DSE Bush the Geelong Landcare Network. The much of the seed bank attached to the Tender grant for a five-year project Batesford/Fyansford/ Stonehaven Landcare burnt plants is destroyed. When the focusing on boneseed control. Group provided both managerial and ground is left clear the regeneration of physical support. In 2007 a Green Corps Jobs team, native plants is accelerated. under the leadership of Stuart Quick, In 2006 it was estimated that at least A second removal of new seedlings is undertook a six-month project removing 30 per cent of the property was heavily attempted within two years, with third weeds including boneseed, boxthorn, infested with mature boneseed plants. and subsequent, hopefully, diminishing blackberry, blanket weed, serrated tussock In 2012 this figure has been reduced picks to occur every two years. and olive trees. At the same time family to 10 per cent. As the area cleared of members Ted Thornley and Jo King mature boneseed plants expands, the George and Lit Belcher are the custodians headed up an assault on boneseed over challenge to keep the cleared area free of of the property. For further information the rest of the property. seedlings increases. The recent end to the go to www.dogrockssanctuary.org prolonged drought has seen the rate of seedling germination explode.

16 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Support for community-led weed action By Kristy Roche

Victorian Landcare and community-based environment groups are partnering with DPI to control established weeds and pest animals within their local areas.

Community-led action is being supported community concern and also supports the Between July and December 2011 DPI by DPI through regulatory enforcement protection of agricultural, environmental inspected 2768 properties for established where groups have demonstrated a and social assets. weeds and rabbits over a total of 249,794 sustained and co-ordinated effort over a hectares. As a result of these inspections, Enforcement activity in 2011–2012 number of years to achieve a common 644 properties were issued with is focused on widespread established standard of weed and pest control. enforcement notices directing landholders species that have high levels of community to control established weeds and pest Community groups co-ordinate control concern: blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), animals. programs that invite landholders to control gorse (Ulex europaeus), serrated tussock pest species voluntarily. DPI then supports (Nassella trichotoma), ragwort (Senecio Where appropriate, enforcement projects this effort with enforcement activity jacobaea), Paterson’s curse (Echium are undertaken with assistance from local targeted at those landholders who have plantagineum) and rabbits (Oryctolagus councils, CMAs, public land managers invasive species present on their land, cuniculus). and linear reserve managers such as rail but do not participate in the community companies, who also undertake invasive Within Victoria, declared noxious weeds and programs. species control in target areas. This pest animals are listed under the Catchment provides comprehensive treatment within Invasive species can only be managed and Land Protection Act 1994. Under the a given area for a target species. successfully when all landholders in the Act, landholders and managers have legal area address the threat. Enforcement responsibilities for the management of For further information contact DPI action by government addresses weeds and pest animals on their property. 136 186, or go to www.dpi.vic.au/weeds

Invasive species can only be managed successfully when all landholders in the area address the threat.

Gorse control work being completed as part of community-led action on weeds.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 17 The fox baiting program has received positive feedback from local people, largely due to the benefits for agriculture in this predominantly sheep production district.

Fox baiting program a win-win for productivity and the environment

A review of a fox baiting program that In the Broken Boosey and Whroo out on an individual basis with little or no links biodiversity, science and agriculture Goldfields Conservation Management co-ordination between landholders. The is showing good results in the box Networks the fox baiting program connects Broken Boosey and Whroo Goldfields ironbark forests of the Goulburn Broken biodiversity protection with farming practice Conservation Management Networks catchment. Around 200 landholders across and reaches those landholders who may not recognised that a whole of landscape approximately 80,000 hectares within the normally prioritise biodiversity in carrying approach would be more effective. Broken Boosey and Whroo Goldfields out their land management activities. Foxes The networks provided the connection Conservation Management Networks have are the major predator of many threatened between public land managers, such as been fox baiting for the past six years. species, so addressing the fox population is Parks Victoria and the Department of vital to the survival of our native fauna. Conservation Management Networks work Defence Army base at Puckapunyal, and across private and public land, recognising Bringing public and private private landowners so that baiting could that plants and animals – especially pests landholders together be co-ordinated across large areas. – exist everywhere and we all must work While some farmers in the area already Private landholders were engaged through together to tackle the problem. baited for foxes, it was usually carried local media and Landcare groups, who were strong supporters of the program. All landholders within the project areas were offered places in an accredited Farm Chemical Users Certificate and 1080 Endorsement course so they could obtain the necessary permits and access the required number of 1080 fox baits to bait in a co-ordinated manner on private land across the project areas. The training (funded by the Broken Boosey and Whroo Goldfields Conservation Management Networks) has built the capacity of the community for fox baiting in the long term and will have a positive impact on all threatened species in the area. A Broken Boosey fox bait collection day at Picola.

18 |  victorian landcare and catchment management The program also helped to raise the profile of the threatened species in the area by highlighting the problem of fox predation on carpet pythons, bush- stone curlews, brush-tailed phascogales and brolga chicks.

Whroo Goldfields Conservation Management Network fox baiting co-ordinator Ian McClaren with landholder Pat Keaveny who participated in the project.

Fox baiting program a win-win for productivity and the environment By Janice Mentiplay-Smith

The training days brought lifestyle Management Network, 54 foxes were farmers and traditional farmers together. sighted on the pre-baiting survey and 36 Motivations for engaging with the project on the post-baiting survey. This indicates were varied. A sheep farmer and long-time a significant decrease but an efficient, resident said, “We don’t have any sheep properly funded monitoring program is at the moment, but I’ll bait for your little needed so hard data can be obtained. (carpet) pythons.” A new lifestyle farmer The fox baiting program has received said they had become involved because A red fox cub leaving an earthen den in positive feedback from local people, they wanted to fit in with the farming the box ironbark forests of the Goulburn largely due to the benefits for agriculture community and to do the right thing. Broken catchment. in this predominantly sheep production Since the baiting program began, the land district. Warby Range Landcare Group manager of Winton Wetlands, Goulburn- member and sheep producer Doug James Murray Water (now Winton Wetlands reported a 10-15 per cent increase in Landholders were able to hear the latest Inc) has joined the project by baiting lamb survival after the baiting in 2006. research findings on fox control at a Foxpo approximately 3000 hectares around the Raising the profile of Expo, where fox behaviour researcher Winton Wetlands, further enhancing the threatened species Andrew Carter from Charles Sturt efforts of landholders in the Broken Boosey The program was also a social success. University presented his findings to 80 Conservation Management Network. Landholders felt that they were not locals. Dr Carter’s research is being used Gaps identified operating in isolation in tackling the large by the conservation management networks The review identified the need for a fox population; they were part of an and partners to improve practices such rigorous and scientifically sound monitoring organised, co-ordinated program, and as bait placement and density so the program to track the impact of the fox were playing their part to address a local effectiveness of the program is maximised. baiting program. Pre- and post-baiting and well-known problem. The fox control program has provided a spotlight monitoring was carried out in The program also helped to raise the practical focus for bringing local people both network areas during the first two profile of the threatened species in the together around the issues of productivity years but it was on an ad hoc basis. and biodiversity. area by highlighting the problem of fox The spotlight data showed that in 2006 (the predation on carpet pythons, bush-stone For more information contact Janice first year of baiting) in the Chesney Vale curlews, brush-tailed phascogales and Mentiplay-Smith on 5761 1644 or by district of the Broken Boosey Conservation brolga chicks. email at [email protected]

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 19 Collaborative weed control

on the urban fringe By Simon Denby

Tackling weeds successfully and in a cost- effective way depends on many different people working together across both public and private land. This is a big ask, but one which the Urban Fringe Weed Management Initiative has been able to overcome. There are many obstacles to collaborative, cross-tenure approaches to weeds – these can include the lack of an agreed strategy, funding requirements that don’t allow for cross-tenure investment; differences in occupational health and safety standards, conflicting public liability insurance requirements, data sharing problems across organisations and insufficient resources. The Urban Fringe Weed Management Initiative is a four-year program set up by the Victorian Government to address these barriers. It aims to achieve better weed control in the urban fringe area by building effective partnerships between government agencies, local councils and the community. Members of the Cardinia Project Working Group with local councillors and friends group members. Weeds are being tackled that threaten key public land assets across seven local government areas in Melbourne’s $4 million over the four years with local Judy Smith from the Friends of Cardinia peri-urban areas. The state is contributing councils providing matching funds. Creek Sanctuary agrees. Seven working groups with members “We have been working tirelessly along from agencies and community have been the reserve for 14 years, and although established to lead the decision making for council has been there to support us, the each project, including asset identification, Urban Fringe Weed Management Initiative weed prioritisation and determining and has allowed for more weed control evaluating project activities. achievements with significant funding High threat weeds and a collaborative effort.” targeted at Cardinia The Cardinia Catchment Landcare Weeds are being tackled The Cardinia Creek Riparian Rehabilitation Group and other community groups are Project aims to control high threat weeds also involved in the project. Funding has that threaten key public between Cardinia Reservoir and the Berwick been made available for training in weed land assets across seven township. This means that high threat weeds surveillance and reporting, weed control are not only managed within the various parks techniques and other activities. local government areas in and reserves that contain high biodiversity Other projects funded as part of the Melbourne’s peri-urban areas. values, but the source of these weeds will initiative include the Dandenong Ranges also be controlled wherever possible. The state is contributing $4 Weed Management Project, Kinglake According to Marianne Sawyer from – Warrandyte Habitat Corridor Weed million over the four years Cardinia Shire Council, co-ordinating works Management Project, Arthurs Seat with neighbouring land managers means the Escarpment Weed Management Project, with local councils providing chances of reinfestation are reduced. Grasmere – Walsdorf Creek Catchment matching funds. Weed Management Project, Lower “This project will produce longer lasting Werribee River Corridor Restoration outcomes for the environment and more Project and the Moonee Ponds Creek effective use of our time and money. In Corridor Weed Management Project. the past we have often battled the same weeds in the same places year after year For further information contact the DSE because they keep coming back.” Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

20 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Disease threat looms Legal for Victorian trees protection Victorians are being urged to keep watch for a fungal for volunteers disease which poses a serious threat to forests in the

Otway and Gippsland regions. The new Equal Opportunity Act (2010) came into effect in 2011, giving all employers and service Myrtle rust was first found in Australia susceptible plants. The first signs of myrtle providers a positive duty of care to on a cut flower property on the central rust infection are tiny raised spots that take proactive and reasonable steps coast of New South Wales in 2010. It has are brown to grey, often with red-purple to prevent discrimination, sexual since been found on over 100 Myrtaceae haloes. Up to 14 days after infection, the species in the natural environment. Plants spots produce masses of distinctive yellow harassment and victimisation from at risk include gum trees, bottlebrush, tea or orange spores.” happening. tree, lilly pilly, paperbark, myrtle, guava, Myrtle rust can be spread by the Importantly, the Act also protects midyim, rose apple, brush box and New movement of infected plant material such volunteers and unpaid workers Zealand Christmas bush. as cuttings and contaminated equipment from sexual harassment, in the According to Wendy Coombes from DPI such as chainsaws, as well as by animals, same way it protects paid staff. Biosecurity myrtle rust has been detected wind, water, vehicles, clothing, shoes and Sexual harassment is unwelcome at production nurseries and wholesale jewellery. conduct of a sexual nature. It includes outlets around metropolitan Melbourne. DPI must be immediately notified of behaviour that could reasonably “Myrtle rust poses a threat to Victorian any plants in Victoria suspected of being be expected to make a person feel trees because, under the right conditions, infected. To avoid spreading the disease, offended, humiliated or intimidated it could slow regeneration of the state’s do not touch, move or collect samples of and can be initiated by an employer, native forests after harvesting or bushfire the suspect plant. staff member, fellow volunteer or and even change the biodiversity of our Reports can be made by calling the service user. forests. Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881, Prevention is best. Taking care and “All members of the Myrtaceae plant or by emailing photos of the suspect using good practice when dealing family are potential hosts. It attacks young, material, together with a contact phone soft, growing leaves, shoot tips and number and the plant’s location, to plant. with volunteers is essential. stems, as well as the fruits and flowers of [email protected] Organisations should have an internal complaints procedure that demonstrates a commitment to fair treatment, takes complaints seriously, guarantees confidentiality, identifies who will handle any complaints and outlines intervention options. It is best to know what to do before it happens. For further information visit www.humanrightscommission. vic.gov.au. You can also email the Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission at [email protected] or call the enquiry line on 1300 292 153.

Graham Wood and Faye Tuchtan in front of the dam they built on their property at Bass. The dam has ended their reliance on mains water. A myrtle rust infection on a melaleuca.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 21 Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators

Mallee Landcarers have been busy progressing The draft Regional Catchment Strategy The region has five new facilitator positions their Victorian Landcare Grant projects. will also be a focus. under the Victorian Local Landcare In March the local Landcare community For further information contact Facilitator Initiative. The new facilitators helped celebrate the 50th anniversary Doug Evans on 9712 2296. will assist local Landcare groups to focus of the Wimmera Machinery Field Days on what they do best – achieving at Longerenong. The event provided North East on-ground works. an opportunity to introduce our new The Ovens Landcare Network, Kiewa Landcare facilitators and to celebrate the Catchment Landcare, Friends of Willow Four of the positions – northern Mallee, positive contributions of Landcare over Park and Mitta Valley Landcare Group eastern Mallee, south eastern Mallee and the past 25 years. were successful in their applications for south western Mallee – will be based funding from the Victorian Local Landcare within consortium arrangements with each The big milestones keep coming for Facilitators Initiative. consortium made up of four to seven the Wimmera as we build up to the Landcare groups. The consortiums have 15th anniversary of Project Hindmarsh and a Groups in the region have been busy nominated the CMA as the host organisation, huge mid-year bash on the Wimmera plains. developing projects for submissions to the which will supplement the funding so that For further information contact CMA’s grant process, National Biodiversity the positions can become full-time. Joel Boyd on 5382 1544. Fund and Caring for our Country Business The fifth position is a stand alone part-time Plan. A wide range of funding opportunities Port Phillip and Westernport is good news for groups. position with the Murrayville Landcare With the new Community NRM Group. All of the new positions will be Co-ordinator team now established, a The CMA recently completed a survey assisted by the Mallee Regional Landcare wide range of Landcare activities and of landholders who have participated in Co-ordinator based at the CMA. Groups events is being delivered in the region regional soil health projects over the last are looking forward to a flurry of new including several Catchment Advisory six to eight years. The survey identified activity in the Mallee – the dust you’ll see Round Tables. The round tables aim to that over 80 per cent of the respondents won’t be coming from wind erosion, but improve co-ordination and co-operation have implemented knowledge or skills from Landcare groups once again hitting across Landcare groups and local natural learnt through these projects – a significant the ground running! resource management agencies. level of practice change brought about by For further information contact Landcare. The survey report is available at The first round tables brought together www.necma.vic.gov.au Kevin Chaplin on 5051 4344. representatives of Landcare groups, local Corangamite government, Melbourne Water, Parks For further information contact Landcare networks and groups in the Victoria and DSE. Participants got to establish Tom Croft on (02) 6024 9107. region have been busy with project personal connections through meeting face- Goulburn Broken to-face, and gained a shared understanding submissions for Australian and Victorian The Goulburn Broken Landcare community of what each organisation is doing. Government funding initiatives. has been busy with a series of sustainable Nine groups in the region were successful Future round tables will concentrate farming, dryland farm management, pasture in securing a share of the Victorian Local on the natural resource management cropping and native grass workshops held Landcare Facilitator Initiative to assist them plans and aspirations of the participants. across the catchment. over the next four years. There has been a series of successful community events and workshops across the region. Topics discussed include pest plant and animal management, waste management, soil health, carbon farming, land stewardship and native habitat protection. The region is also active on social media. Many groups are now engaging with their communities through regular updates on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube. For further information contact Tracey McRae on 5232 9100. Wimmera The vital role Landcare plays in protecting and restoring the landscape has been highlighted in consultations conducted by Around 40 horse owning landholders attended a series of land management weekend courses run the CMA for the development of a new by the Mitchell Shire and Goulburn Broken CMA in February. The courses were presented by Jane Regional Catchment Strategy. Myers and included theory as well as a tour of local horse properties.

22 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators

A series of courses on land management for horse owners has been run in the Mitchell Shire. Darley Horse Stud has continued their support for Landcare this year, assisting with projects in the south west Goulburn. Projects for wetland and bog preservation and biolinks have received funding in the Strathbogies. We welcome Judy Watts to the Landcare team. Judy will be based at Yea and will work part-time for the Upper Goulburn Landcare Network. For further information contact Tony Kubiel on 5761 1619. West Gippsland Six new part-time Landcare positions have been funded across the region through the Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative. The positions are with the South Gippsland Landcare Network, Bass Coast Landcare Network, Yarram Yarram Landcare Network, Maffra and District Landcare Network, Latrobe Catchment Landcare Network and the Avon Landcare Group Consortium. The positions will help our Landcare communities to continue the great natural resource management work that they do. Congratulations to the Landcarers across From left, Stuart McLean from the North Central CMA Board, Derek de Vrieze from bankmecu, the region for their stellar achievements at Tamsin Byrne from the Sutton Grange and Axe Creek Landcare Groups and Maurie Dynon from the 2011 Victorian Landcare Awards. the Guildford Upper Loddon Landcare Group cut the North Central’s 25th Landcare anniversary For further information contact cake. Both Tamsin and Maurie are on the Victorian Landcare Honour Roll. Phillip McGarry on 1300 094 262.

Glenelg Hopkins North Central East Gippsland The CMA is working with RMIT University More than 190 people attended a The region’s new facilitators funded through to produce a book on the history of dinner at the Bress Winery at Harcourt the Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Landcare in the region. This book will look to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Initiative are busy carrying out post works at how Landcare has evolved in the region Landcare late last year. The evening site surveys on projects funded through the over the past 25 years. Old newspaper Caring for our Country Sustainable Practices articles and records will be researched and was a great opportunity for old friends project. Typical works include protective local Landcarers will be interviewed to to come together and to meet new fencing around remnant vegetation and capture their experiences and recollections. people all with a common interest – their commitment and enthusiasm for land class fencing to improve grazing Groups are underway with on-ground Landcare. management. Stock-proof fencing has also activities and events as part of their been erected to protect approximately Victorian Landcare Grant projects. There Landcare members who were nominated 52,000 indigenous seedlings. The seedlings are also some innovative activities planned for the Victorian Landcare Honour Roll will improve biodiversity values and create to celebrate the 25th anniversary of were also celebrated. connectivity through fragmented landscapes. Landcare in Victoria. The 25th anniversary of Landcare grants Volunteers have also been busy The region has received funding for has provided funding for 26 groups in attending biological farming and soil six positions under the Victorian Local the region to mark the milestone with health workshops, whole farm planning Landcare Facilitator Initiative. The CMA events that include tree planting days, sessions, a workshop on managing threats is looking forward to working with these weed control activities and nest box to endangered ecological vegetation groups and facilitators in the future. building days with local school groups. communities and an erosion day. For further information contact For further information contact For further information contact Tony Lithgow on 5571 2526. Jodie Odgers on 5440 1883. Sandie Brown on 5150 3581.

autumn 2012 issue 54 | 23 In brief

Landcare Community Grants Guide A Landcare Community Grants Guide has been produced to help natural resource management groups seek further funding for projects. The guide includes commonwealth, state, philanthropic and corporate funding options as well as volunteering opportunities by corporate bodies. The guide was put together by Landcare Corporate Partnership Facilitator Karen Brisbane with the support of DSE and the Goulburn Broken CMA and is based on similar grants guides produced in Members of the Elingamite-Cobrico Landcare Group gathered recently for a dinner at the several regions. Cobden Angling Clubrooms to celebrate the group’s 20th anniversary. Long-serving group The Landcare Community Grants members Les Kerr and Russell Smith were proud to cut the anniversary cake. Guide is available electronically on the Victorian Landcare Gateway. For hard copies contact your Regional Landcare The conference will be useful for those The next issue will also feature our Co-ordinator. involved in weed research, development, regular reader survey. We are keen to management and all levels of government. 18th Australasian Weeds Conference get your views on the magazine and There will be plenary, oral and poster make sure it is meeting your needs. The Weed Society of Victoria will be sessions as well as five field trips. holding the 18th Australasian Weeds By completing the survey, either online Conference from 8–11 October 2012 For more information or to register, or in the magazine, you will also be in at Albert Park, Melbourne. The visit the conference website at the running for some great prizes. conference is focusing on developing www.18awc.com/ Contributions to the next issue should solutions to evolving weed problems. Next issue – Recruiting new be sent to the editor by 8 June 2012. The conference will provide members and volunteers Carrie Tiffany, editor good educational and networking The next issue of the magazine will Victorian Landcare & Catchment opportunities. It will showcase recent feature stories on how groups and Management magazine advances in weed science, weed networks are attracting new volunteers management, education and policies and members. We welcome your PO Box 1135, Mitcham North 3132 across Australian and international contributions on this topic as well as Phone: 0405 697 548 communities and landscapes. your general Landcare news and views. Email: [email protected]

The Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine is published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment and distributed in partnership with the Farm Tree & Landcare Association and the Victorian Catchment Management Council. The magazine aims to raise awareness of Landcare and natural resource management among Victorian farmers, landholders, the Victorian Landcare community and the wider community.

Mailing list enquiries Executive Officer Farm Tree & Landcare Association Phone: 9207 5527 Fax: 9207 5500 Email: [email protected] To receive your copy via email alert Contact Jessica Barnes Phone: 9637 8190 Email: [email protected] Read the magazine online Back issues of the Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine can be found at www.dse.vic.gov.au/victorianlandcaremagazine The print size of the magazine can be enlarged online for easier reading.

Published on 100% recycled and recyclable paper VICTORIAN

Winter 2012 Issue 55 & Catchment Management

RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS FEATURE Yarrilinks – a multicultural success story Connecting children with nature Linking Landcare and business Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management

W int e r 2 0 1 2 I s s u e 5 5 Contents

4 03 From the Minister

04 Yarrilinks – a multicultural success story Many of the men, women and children who have contributed to the planting of 300,000 seedlings on the intensely farmed Wimmera plains have been refugees from war-torn nations. The Yarrilinks community planting weekends have been underway since 1999 and have involved volunteers from 24 different cultures.

06 Bringing Landcare and business together A Landcare facilitator’s perspective on how partnerships between Landcare and business can help to strengthen local communities.

07 Connecting children with nature Bayside Enviro Kids is a grassroots Friends group that operates in an urban From Sudan to Murtoa: Safa helps to area with a focus on young children, their parents, guardians and wider family plant yam daisies in the Wimmera. members including grandparents. The kids take part in environmental educational activities and their parents are encouraged to participate.

08 Building a biolink on the Mornington Peninsula 6 Ann-Heather White from the Manton and Stony Creek Landcare Group tells the story of a five-year project to connect local areas of isolated bushland by encouraging landowners to create corridors of habitat across their land.

10 Reader survey Complete our quick and easy reader survey and win great prizes for your local group or charity.

15 A challenging gig helps ELMA pull together Beth Mellick from the Elphinstone Land Management Association explains how a social function helped to increase membership, share information, raise the profile of the association and show that Landcare can be great fun.

Funding from a local horse stud helped 20 Around the State students from St Joseph’s Primary School in News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators. Nagambie to revegetate the school’s grounds.

Editorial Advisory Committee This publication is copyright. No part may be Karen Brisbane Victorian State Landcare Team, reproduced by any process except in accordance 18 Melissa Whitelaw Landcare Australia Limited, with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Tracey Koper Victorian Catchment Management Authorised by the Victorian Government, Council, Katie Eldridge DPI, Susi Johnson FTLA, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. Jessica Barnes DSE, Cathy Heycock DSE. Editorial contributions ISSN 1327 5496 Carrie Tiffany, PO Box 1135, The State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee Mitcham North 3132 Phone 0405 697 548 that this publication is without flaw of any kind or is E-mail: [email protected] wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and Cover photograph therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other Anna feels the texture of an urchin shell at a consequences which may arise from you relying on any Bayside Enviro Kids activity, by Kerstin Begley. information in this publication. © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability The State of Victoria acknowledges contributions made by and Environment 2012. private enterprise and other persons or groups interested in Landcare. Acceptance of these contributions, however, does The Otway Agroforestry Network’s three not endorse or imply endorsement by the State of Victoria farm tree expos have attracted around 300 of any product, service, or view offered by contributors. new members and increased the profile of the group in the local community.

2 | victorian landcare and catchment management Minister’s foreword

The latest issue of the magazine has plenty plant 1.5 million trees across parklands and workshop allowed the facilitators to get of interesting stories and people who other open public space in metropolitan OH&S training, community engagement, highlight just how much is being done in Melbourne and half a million trees along partnership building, as well as funding and the Landcare space. waterways in regional Victoria. reporting information that will enable them to do their job in their local communities better. The focus on how groups and networks The project is supporting tree planting recruit and retain members and volunteers projects run by councils, schools, The 2011 Victorian Landcare Award is particularly relevant as we are all looking community and Landcare groups and winners will be heading off to Sydney in at ways to achieve the best outcomes for volunteers, committees of management early September for a national conference and the announcement of the 2012 the environment and community. and other public land managers. National Landcare Awards. These sorts The stories really demonstrate the way I encourage you to visit of networking opportunities are of great Victoria’s Landcare groups have used www.dse.vic.gov.au or email benefit for people working on the ground. some creative approaches to getting [email protected] for more We wish our Victorian Landcarers the people involved – speed planting for singles, information. music gigs, playgroups, walks, talks, expos, best of luck! treasure hunts and mass planting days aimed I’ve also heard some great feedback at getting new migrants into the bush. from the induction workshop for the 68 new local facilitators organised by One of the projects I’m keen to share with DSE in partnership with the Victorian you is the 2 Million Trees initiative, which I Landcare Council in June. launched during National Volunteers Week. Ryan Smith The Victorian Government is working Close to 80 per cent of the facilitators Minister for Environment and with organisations throughout the state to attended, which was great. The two-day Climate Change

Minister Smith (right) and Chris Jones Weatherly at the launch of 2 Million Trees at BRITE services nursery in Broadmeadows during National Volunteers Week in May.

winter 2012 issue 55 | 3 Yarrilinks recruits new friends to

Landcare – from all over the world By Joel Boyd

Last year Safa, a Sudanese/Australian girl, planted a yam daisy in the Wimmera sunshine as a mark of respect for the Indigenous people who once lived in the area. Yam daisies were a plentiful food plant pre-settlement, but these days they are rare. The yam daisies were planted on a Yarrilinks community planting weekend where people from Melbourne help local farmers to plant trees and restore the landscape. Many of the men, women and children who have contributed to the planting of 300,000 seedlings on the intensely farmed Wimmera plains have been refugees from war-torn nations. The Yarrilinks community planting weekends have been underway since 1999 and have involved volunteers from 24 different cultures. Every August, partner organisations including Adult Multicultural Education Services (AMES) and the Sudanese Australian Integrated Learning program (SAIL) help bus Melbourne-based refugee families to small towns in the Yarriambiack Shire region to stay with host families and plant side by side with local residents. Last year Sudanese, Ethiopian and Karen people (from Burma) were among those to lend a helping hand on two sites at Murtoa (population 950). For many of them Yarrilinks provided their first taste of rural Australia and the Landcare movement. The planting is just one aspect of the weekend. After planting on Saturday the volunteers enjoy an evening of local entertainment and a meal prepared by Melbourne’s Lentil as Anything restaurant. From Sudan to Murtoa: Safa helps to plant yam daisies in the Wimmera. On Sunday they are given a tour of the region before heading back to the city. “We do our best to promote the land; it’s about caring for the people who According to Minyip local and Yarrilinks Wimmera as a place to settle and work tend the land. Co-ordinator Rae Talbot many of the and we’ve had some success in that area. Nhill in the northern Wimmera now “By strengthening communities and cultural volunteers have developed close ongoing experience we can achieve much-needed relationships with their host families. benefits from the 100 Karen people who live in the town. Sixty Karen people work social and economic outcomes while we “Some volunteers come back year after at the Luv-a-Duck facility thanks to the improve the environment. We’ve been year to stay with the same families. They support of Luv-a-Duck manager John culturally isolated in the Wimmera and it’s have a lovely time catching up on news Millington. One family group has recently been a privilege to meet new volunteers and seeing the kids as they grow up.” purchased a house in Nhill. The town has and hear amazing stories of survival and been very welcoming and it is wonderful their dreams of a new life in their new Rae believes that it is important to always to see them starting to put down roots.” country,” Rae said. be mindful of how farmers, volunteers and communities will benefit from the For Rae and her Yarrilinks colleagues, Yarrilinks has benefited from strong revegetation projects. Landcare is not just about caring for the partnerships with many organisations

4 | victorian landcare and catchment management Many of the men, women and children who have contributed to the planting of 300,000 seedlings on the intensely farmed Wimmera plains have been refugees from war-torn nations.

Rae Talbot checks a patch of buloke on a property between Rupanyup and Minyip. Rae’s passion for conserving the bulokes has brought her into contact with people from all over the world through the Yarrilinks community planting weekends. including the Wimmera CMA, DSE, Wimmera Landcare, Ace Radio, Greening Australia, Lentil as Anything, AMES, Tips for working with volunteers SAIL and Initiatives of Change. These partnerships have been crucial to the • The best way to enthuse and recruit • Think carefully about how your activity ongoing success of the project. people is through face-to-face might be interpreted and understood communication by someone from another culture Rae, often accompanied by her husband Joe Talbot, is a passionate advocate for the • Planning and organisation are crucial – • Make sure volunteers fill roles that project and has spread the word far and make it easy for people to be involved suit and benefit them – people need wide. Rae has spoken to other Landcare a sense of achievement • Build relationships with well-organised groups and networks across Victoria, support organisations that can provide • Embrace people’s differences politicians, corporations, social support access to potential volunteers • Be patient, prepared to listen and to organisations and corporations. share lots of laughs The Yarrilinks team is hopeful that the Yarriambiack Shire will continue to support the project as a model for integrating native vegetation protection and restoration works within Australia’s highly developed grain producing region. The project will also benefit from a part-time facilitator funded through the 2012 State Government’s Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative. Yarrilinks community plant-outs are held in Yarriambiack Shire on the first weekend of August each year. Host families are usually based in Rupanyup, Murtoa, Minyip, Warracknabeal and Horsham. For more information on Yarrilinks and advice for working with volunteers from diverse cultural backgrounds contact Rae Talbot through the Wimmera CMA on 5382 1544. A planting group at Sheep Hills takes a well-earned break.

winter 2012 issue 55 | 5 Bringing Landcare and

business together By Karen Brisbane

I’ve been Victoria’s Landcare Corporate Partnership Facilitator since 2009. My work involves encouraging businesses, corporations and philanthropic bodies to become involved with natural resource management through partnerships

with community group projects. St Joseph’s Primary School students enjoyed a tree planting day funded by a local business.

There are many ways that corporations minded businesses and organisations. plants to local community groups. The can get involved in Landcare type projects. The Bunnings nest box project is a great plants donated are part of a program aimed Providing skills can be of great assistance. success story. Twelve Bunnings stores are at reducing the carbon footprint of bike We’ve seen accounting firms support not- involved with the project and some stores events including the Ausbike Bike Expo. for-profit community groups with accounting are also assisting local community groups My role is to link organisations with issues and project audits. Donating equipment with National Tree Day. local community natural resource for on-ground works can also be very helpful In 2011 Darley horse stud supported management groups so they can join to groups as well as volunteering time. South West Goulburn Landcare by helping forces and collaborate on local projects. Volunteers have come from many walks them with junior Landcare educational The connections created by the different of life – from scientists working for the projects based in the Nagambie and projects are having a positive impact on Commonwealth Serum Laboratories to Broadford regions. Darley also sponsored the environment and providing multiple retirees who are members of Melbourne- the Hughes Creek Boggs and Bandicoots rewards for students, community members based Rotary groups. Partnerships can project in Ruffy and a walking track and and corporate staff. also be forged at a local level with schools signage project in Avenel. If you have an idea that you would like joining forces with local Friends groups to The bikeTREES organisation – a self- support for from an alternative funding work on joint projects. funded, industry-based tree planting and source or you know of a business that might Financial support has been received from reforestation program – is working with like to support a project in their region a range of environmental and community- the Ovens Landcare Network on donating contact Karen Brisbane on 5820 1134.

The connections created by the different projects are having a positive impact on the environment and providing multiple rewards for students, community members and corporate staff.

Teachers from St Joseph’s Primary School in Nagambie demonstrate tree planting techniques to students. Funds from Darley horse stud allowed the Nagambie Landcare Group to help revegetate the school’s grounds.

6 | victorian landcare and catchment management Enviro Kids is a way for families to be involved in their local environment without making a long- term commitment to volunteering.

Young Enviro Kids participants watch the ducklings at Basterfield Park.

Connecting children with nature By Barbara Jakob

Enviro Kids is a grassroots Friends group that operates in an urban area with a focus on young children, their parents, guardians and wider family members including grandparents. The kids are between three and nine years old. They take part in age-appropriate environmental educational activities and their parents are encouraged to participate.

Enviro Kids is run as a family event on Enviro Kids is a way for families to be Sunday mornings. The focus is on local involved in their local environment indigenous plants and wildlife. Activities without making a long-term commitment include researching the living conditions to volunteering. It also links children and for frogs in a local pond and learning their parents to the work of the many about worms. Taking a closer look at local Friends groups and helps to the banksia trees leads to discovering strengthen relationships. how the Bunurong people used them. Enviro Kids is part of the Bayside In spring the children weave nests and Environment Friends Network. There admire the skills of birds. The varieties of are 17 Friends groups in the urban seabirds on the foreshore are investigated suburbs of Bayside. In 2010 the Friends and the children test what shape beaks groups decided to actively connect with suit different food. The subjects chosen young people and their parents in the are linked to the seasons and to the work municipality and Enviro Kids was formed. Coastcare co-ordinator Hakan Dellal of the local Friends groups who come demonstrates the use of drippers for along to share their knowledge. It is these Enviro Kids is advertised through a collecting seawater to research microbes. interactive activities for children coupled direct mailing list and on Facebook. with education that supports behaviour There are plans to branch out into other change towards sustainable living practices. suburbs. New facilitators are welcomed and Friends groups are encouraged to Children and their parents develop make contact. an understanding of the importance of bushland in urban areas. These For further information contact families then become advocates for Barbara Jakob by email at open spaces in the community. [email protected]

winter 2012 issue 55 | 7 A small biolink is a huge challenge

Despite its proximity to Melbourne and a reputation as the city’s playground, the Mornington Peninsula retains significant areas of natural habitat – both in state and national parks and in pockets of uncleared private land. These areas provide habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna.

However, the rising demand for Our sponsors – power group Jemena, Port in consultation and discussion with weekender and lifestyle properties and Phillip and Westernport CMA, Melbourne landowners working towards agreement. the growth of vineyards and tourism Water and Landcare Australia Limited – Using a fauna consultant has also been enterprises increases the pressure on have every reason to be proud of what successful. Our personable and expert these pockets of natural habitat and there they have achieved. But it has required a local, Malcolm Legge, can brilliantly explain is a danger they can become isolated great deal of patience from our sponsors that wildlife includes not just koalas, from each other. and from our committee. wallabies or kangaroos, but lots of small, The Manton and Stony Creeks Landcare Working with lifestylers often nocturnal creatures, including tiny Group works with the two creek systems The first lesson we learnt is that mouse-like dunnarts, bats, skinks and that flow from the highlands of Arthur’s landowners on lifestyle properties have lizards. Seat and Main Ridge down to Westernport different values to those involved in Bay. Thanks to some good landowners and commercial farming. support from Melbourne Water the creeks Economic arguments can be used in are in good condition and provide natural commercial farming operations – giving up wildlife corridors. a strip of productive land for a shelterbelt It looked easy on the map – a few well- can provide other economic benefits for placed biolinks could connect the area’s the landholder with increased shade and isolated sites with each other and with shelter and improved soil fertility. Lifestylers several pockets of preserved bush on and weekenders don’t farm for profit and private land. Only a few kilometres of their barriers to getting involved in a biolink links were needed to create a matrix of have more to do with their emotional connected habitats. Yet five years later the relationship with the property. major strands of the link are only just being The size and shape of properties was also planted. an issue. Most properties are small (from 4 to 40 hectares), narrow and often run down to the creek. A 15-metre-wide biolink is a more obvious intrusion on these properties and can be quite close to the house. Convincing people of the need to use our local flora was an issue as it isn’t as eye- catching as the brighter blooming natives like grevilleas and callistemons. The local Views are critical for varieties are plainer and scrubby-looking. lifestylers and weekenders. Views are critical for lifestylers and weekenders. It is important to recognise It is important to recognise where a planting may limit ocean or valley where a planting may limit panoramas to which the landowner is attached. ocean or valley panoramas None of these issues is insurmountable. to which the landowner is The owners are generally sympathetic to attached. environmental protection and with a bit of give and take agreement can be reached. Fauna can convince All of the issues need to be thoroughly David Maddocks and Ann-Heather White talked through. The Manton and Stony from the Manton and Stony Creek Landcare Creek Landcare Group President, David Group beside a fence installed to exclude Maddocks, has spent hundreds of hours cattle from a corridor to Stony Creek.

8 | victorian landcare and catchment management on the Mornington Peninsula By Ann-Heather White

Group profile

The Manton and Stony Creek Landcare expert have stimulated an interest in Group formed in 2003. It is made up membership. of 52 families on about 310 properties. One of the group’s biggest challenges is These properties range in size from 0.2 getting volunteer labour for projects due hectares to 110 hectares. to the age of the members and the fact Properties in the area generally have that they are weekenders. some remnant bush and some grazing. The group communicates with the local There are a few remaining apple orchards community through a newsletter, articles and recent olive and grape plantings. in the local newspaper and emails to The majority of group members are members. A stand at the Red Hill School weekenders who are retired or semi- annual carnival has been good at attracting retired. Property management issues interest. The group also has good links David Maddocks and Ann-Heather White don’t hold much interest, but building with the Mornington Peninsula Shire, the alongside Stony Creek. The creek’s permanent nest boxes, the biolink and community Red Hill Community Action Group and water is critical for wildlife. The creek can now talks and slide-shows by a local fauna be reached through a biolink created across the Red Hill Consultative Group. private properties and remnant bush.

This is often a turning point for property biolink that connects both Manton and these areas. We hope that the last owners. When they understand that Stony Creeks and links up with some well- remaining piece of the jigsaw will be corridors are not only for robust animals vegetated roadside verges. A link through a tunnel under Tucks Road, the only like kangaroos, but also for tinier creatures one property at the headwaters of the major obstacle to safe travel for small too vulnerable to cross open paddocks, system connects it with the extensive Main creatures. they begin to appreciate that all fauna are Ridge Reserve. The whole area incorporates Ann-Heather White is secretary of the part of a mutually sustaining ecosystem. approximately 70 square kilometres. Manton and Stony Creek Landcare group. Connecting the creeks and verges It has probably been a century or more For further information email Ann-Heather Seven properties now provide a lengthy since there was a continuous link across at [email protected]

One of the group’s biggest challenges is getting volunteer labour for projects due to the age of the members and the fact that they are weekenders.

Members of the Manton and Stony Creek Landcare Group at a planting day.

winter 2012 issue 55 | 9 Hikers discover Reader survey – have your say Landcare on Grand

In 2001, 2006 and 2009 we asked readers to complete a survey to help us refine the Strzelecki Track magazine and make sure it meets the needs of the Landcare community. The results told us that readers saw the magazine as a good source of practical and The opening of an iconic 110-kilometre innovative advice about Landcare and a place to share and showcase Landcare stories. walking track through the Eastern The surveys have provided us with a huge number of suggestions from readers about the Strzelecki Ranges in Gippsland has stories they wanted to see featured in the magazine and we have been working through given the Merriman Creek Landcare these as we plan each issue. Sub Group a chance to promote its work to a vast audience. The It’s time for a new survey. Please take a few minutes to tell us who you are and what you think of the magazine. We are really keen to get your feedback. Suggestions on topics that Grand Strzelecki Track traverses five are interesting and relevant for us to follow up are very welcome. catchments that connect two national parks and the highest point in the range, In this survey we’d also like to find out if it is possible for us to further reduce the costs and Mount Tassie, which stands 720 metres resources involved in producing paper copies of the magazine by encouraging more readers above sea level. The track is expected to take up the option of reading the magazine online. to become one of Victoria’s premier bushwalking and camping destinations. The Merriman Creek Landcare Sub Group has sponsored one of Great prizes the interpretive signs located at the headwaters of Merriman Creek near If you complete the survey by 1 September 2012 you’ll go into the draw to win Balook. One of the primary focuses of one of the following prizes: the group is to maintain and improve the health of Merriman Creek. With • $500 from the DSE Victorian 250,000 visitors to the parks each year Landcare Program for your they saw the opportunity to sponsor local group or other charity the sign as a great way of promoting of choice. their group to an audience that values Victoria’s natural assets. • Six bottles of Tahbilk Marsanne donated by the Tahbilk Winery. The sign is situated in cool temperate Established in 1860 and located rainforest at the foot of one of the in the Nagambie Lakes region largest mountain ash trees in the area. of Central Australia Tahbilk is The Merriman Creek is approximately one of Australia’s most beautiful 85 kilometres long and ends at and historic wineries. Tahbilk is Seaspray where it meets Bass Strait. also committed to Landcare. Scientists are electronically tracking the Tahbilk manages the extensive For further information go to endangered Freshwater Catfish in the wetlands on the property for Tahbilk billabongs. www.grandstrzeleckitrack.org.au/ their environmental values.

According to Tyson Stelzer of Wine Taste Weekly the 2011 Marsanne is a particularly outstanding vintage. “Fresher and zestier than ever and carrying a wonderfully persistent texture.”

• A copy of Birdscaping Australian Gardens – A Guide to Native Plants and the Garden Birds they attract by George Adams

The online survey is quick and easy You have the choice of filling out the sheets opposite and using the reply paid envelope, or you can complete the survey online by logging on to www.dse.vic.gov.au/victorianlandcaremagazine and clicking on the reader survey link. Completing the survey online is the most cost-effective method of participating as it saves on postage and automatically collates the results.

10 | victorian landcare and catchment management Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management Magazine Reader Survey 2012

1. Please provide your name and a contact phone number or email if you want to go into the draw to win a prize. We will not pass your details on to any third party nor use this information for any other purpose.

Name Phone number or email

2. What is your age and gender? (Optional) Age Gender

3. Which one of the following best describes you? (Tick box and comment if ‘other’.)

Dryland farmer – broad-acre Lifestyle or hobby farmer Dryland farmer – intensive Urban/town resident Irrigation farmer Other

4. Where do you live? (Tick one box only.)

Rural area Urban/rural fringe (peri-urban) Country town or regional city Melbourne/Geelong

5. What is your interest in Landcare?

Member of a Landcare or similar group Agribusiness person Landcare co-ordinator/facilitator/support staff Landcare sponsor VFF member Teacher/educator Local government employee or councillor Researcher State or Federal Government employee Other CMA employee

6. Do other people read your copy of the magazine? Yes. How many? No

7. Rate the different types of stories in Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine (1 – very interested, 2 – quite interested, 3 – not very interested, 4 – not interested).

News from Landcare groups and networks Practical stories on innovative approaches, or how to achieve best practice Individual farmer case studies Lessons learned from past Landcare projects New research findings Revisiting case studies from past issues of the magazine Regional roundup ‘In brief’ section News from DSE/DPI and the FTLA Minister’s foreword

Comments 8. Rate the different topics explored in Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine (1 – very interested, 2 – quite interested, 3 – not very interested, 4 – not interested).

Biodiversity conservation Soil health and soil carbon

Climate change Food security and community gardens

Sustainable agriculture Water and drought

Pest plants and animals Victorian Landcare Awards

Regional and community development Future Landcare and Landcare’s changing audience

Carbon management opportunities Landcare planning

Indigenous involvement in Landcare Farm forestry

Eco-markets and market-based instruments Organic and biodynamic farming

Biodiversity conservation Landcare conferences and seminars

The social side of Landcare Landcare group/individual profiles

9. What other topics are you interested in?

10. Currently we produce three editions of the magazine a year. Each edition is 24 pages long. What would you prefer?

Number of editions Number of pages

More Fewer Same More Fewer Same

11. Is there anything to prevent you from reading the magazine online?

Please tick this box if you would prefer to receive the magazine via the online email alert

Email address:

12. Do you have any other feedback about the magazine? Are there other ways it could be improved for you?

13. What do you think are the current challenges for Landcare in Victoria? Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management Magazine Reader Survey 2012

STOP! Before you start this survey, did you know that you can complete it online? It’s quick, easy, and saves us time and money. Please note: • It is the customer's responsibility to check that the artwork is correct, please check the delivery address details and the addressee details below the barcode. Contact Australia Post if any changes are required. • Failure to adhere to correct addressing and formatting standards will result in higher customer charges or cancellation of service. • Refer to the Reply Paid Service Guide or visit www.auspost.com.au/replypaid • Please check the artwork details thoroughly. Australia Post is not responsible for any errors.

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Delivery Address: PO Box 500 EAST MELBOURNE VIC 8002

Reader Survey Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management Magazine Department of Sustainability & Environment Reply Paid 500 EAST MELBOURNE VIC 8002

Reader Survey Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management Magazine Department of Sustainability & Environment Reply Paid 500 EAST MELBOURNE VIC 8002

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Summary: Envelope Paper Requirements: No print content can appear in the bottom 15 mm on the front of the article or 20mm on the rear of the article. WARNING Filename: D66303140013229324Y120601.pdf- weight of 65 to 100gsm; date: 01/06/2012 16:51:00 Changes to this artwork not complying with - thickness of 0.08 to 0.18 mm; Reply Paid Service Guidelines may result in - stiffness: machine direction of 3 mN; and, cancellation of your Reply Paid service. - stiffness: cross direction of 1.5mN.

Summary: Envelope Paper Requirements: No print content can appear in the bottom 15 mm on the front of the article or 20mm on the rear of the article. WARNING - weight of 65 to 100gsm; Changes to this artwork not complying with - thickness of 0.08 to 0.18 mm; Reply Paid Service Guidelines may result in - stiffness: machine direction of 3 mN; and, cancellation of your Reply Paid service. - stiffness: cross direction of 1.5mN. Landcare groups that are able to apply for funds towards interesting and innovative projects shouldn’t be afraid to give it a go.

Hard work and good fun: an ELMA community planting day at the Jimmy Ball Flora Reserve, Elphinstone. A challenging gig helps

ELMA pull together By Beth Mellick

Over the years I’ve noticed how important In the end it was a fantastic night. social functions can be for strengthening More than 200 people attended the gig. community and environmental groups. We signed up new and lapsed members Being able to enjoy Landcare is integral to and promoted our Landcare projects. Shane Howard played on at the Elphinstone maintaining an active membership. Groups Sometimes Landcare can experience some pub despite heavy rain and a fire that burnt have run speed plantings, rave plantings, down the pub’s kitchen. community dissatisfaction – ELMA went curry nights, Landcare bingo, and all sorts through that last year. Some locals were of dinners and lunches. concerned our tree planting was increasing the fire risk for the town, cat lovers were With this in mind, the Elphinstone gig showed that ELMA members were unhappy about the trapping of feral cats, Land Management Association (ELMA) able to pull together, kick up their heels, some locals disliked cape broom removal applied for a grant to hold a gig at the and put on a community shindig worth from their roadsides and we hadn’t solved local pub. The objective was to increase remembering. membership, share information, raise the the rabbit problem. In spite of this the profile of the group, and to show that I believe the Landcare movement is Landcare could be great fun. currently in transition. It needs big vision projects to make a real difference to We managed to secure Australian About ELMA species decline across the landscape. singer-songwriter Shane Howard to act as But it also has to cater for its members, The Elphinstone Land Management our main attraction. Things were looking both current and future. This may require Association is located in central Victoria. good, but a week before the gig the pub’s some thinking outside the box, so Landcare Major projects include the development kitchen burnt down. Then, on the day of groups that are able to apply for funds of an indigenous arboretum, the the gig, it bucketed with rain. With only towards interesting and innovative projects establishment and care of a flora outside facilities available since the fire, shouldn’t be afraid to give it a go. we considered cancelling the show. reserve, managing and restoring remnant vegetation, weed control Beth Mellick is the Executive However, Shane was still willing to play adjoining a state forest, in-town plantings Director of the Norman Wettenhall and bookings had been made. We erected and help and advice for landholders on Foundation and a member of ELMA. a number of gazebos and tents, put on our pest plant and animal control. For further information go to www. gumboots and rain jackets and pushed on. elphinstonelandmanagementgroup.com

winter 2012 issue 55 | 15 Otway farm tree expo links

friends and experts By David Curry

Multipurpose trees and shrubs can protect and enhance existing farm productivity, increase the diversity of farm products and improve the sustainability of natural resources.

The Otway Agroforestry Network The theme for our 2012 expo was (OAN) was set up by farmers in 1993 bioenergy and included the potential for to encourage and support other farmers agroforestry to contribute to domestic to get involved in agroforestry. heating and the production of electricity via gasification (greenhouse gas neutral The OAN uses peer group mentoring energy). The theme also included where long-term experienced farmers and information on sequestering carbon on tree-growers assist other farmers. The farms using productive trees and soils. network has 20 mentors and more than Biochar, a by-product of gasification, was 250 members. also discussed. For the past three years the OAN has Other activities at our expos have included run an annual farm tree expo. The first lectures on wildlife conservation in two expos were in Birregurra and the productive systems; the risk of myrtle rust third was held on the Bambra Agroforestry in Victoria; walnuts and truffles as part of Demonstration Farm owned by Rowan A farm walk on the Bambra Agroforestry Farm a productive tree system; climate science and Claire Reid. This expo was also the during the 2012 Otway Agroforestry Network and the environmental and commercial 25th anniversary of the Bambra farm farm tree expo. prospects of sandalwood. since agroforestry was introduced. All three expos have attracted about We’ve had outdoor displays and talks 300 participants and brought us new on shiitake mushrooms grown on thinnings The 2012 expo included a second day, members and volunteers. from hardwood plantings; cut flowers primarily for interstate visitors but well and foliage integrated into shelterbelts; attended by locals, on one of the older native food products; honey from properties in the Deans Marsh district. flowering trees and shrubs; nurseries; Yan Yan Gurt West has established establishing trees on farms; productive multipurpose trees and shrubs integrated tree management including pruning; into the existing system for optimum firewood production; furniture making, benefit. Yan Yan Gurt West is under the musical instrument making, specialty stewardship of the Stewart family and wood master-craftsmen; and falling and Andrew Stewart is the OAN Co-ordinator. milling timber with a mobile mill. Food and music are important ingredients for the expos. The focus is on local talent and products. The success of the expos can be attributed to the range of activities Food and music are important and, more particularly, to the network’s emphasis on learning, development and ingredients for the expos. innovation. OAN mentors and members The focus is on local talent have a passion for landscape sustainability and the expos are a great way for them and products. to share that passion. A member recently suggested that OAN is more of a fellowship than a network. This gives an insight into the social bonds created. OAN also keeps in close contact with key stakeholders and experts. It is a group with a focus on people, their ideas, continual learning and innovation.

Alice Springs chef Athol Wark serving up some For further information go to delicious morsels flavoured with native plants. www.oan.org.au

16 |  victorian landcare and catchment management The first Landcare for Singles events run in the Yarra Valley were well attended. Participants said they were great fun and provided a good introduction to Landcare. Kit makes Landcare for Singles events easy

Landcare for Singles events provide an opportunity for environmentally conscious people on the lookout for someone special to try a unique form of speed dating, or in this case speed planting.

They are also a great way of attracting new partnership with Kim Boswell of the Yarra volunteers and spreading the word about Valley and Dandenong Ranges Network, the work your group is doing for your local has developed a project kit to assist groups environment. to run Landcare for Singles and Coastcare for Singles events. The first Landcare for Singles speed The kit provides a planting events were run by the Yarra The kit provides a comprehensive guide on Valley and Dandenong Ranges Landcare how to run a Landcare for Singles event and comprehensive guide on Network in 2011. Two hugely successful includes posters, registration forms, tickets, how to run a Landcare for planting days attracted over 100 banners, flyers, name badges, invitations and participants, 95 per cent of whom were feedback forms. To download the kit go to Singles event and includes completely new to Landcare. A party was www.landcareonline.com.au posters, registration forms, also hosted afterwards to give the singles Landcare Australia Limited is keen from both planting events the opportunity tickets, banners, flyers, to keep track of how many Landcare to come together and mingle. for Singles events are taking place. name badges, invitations Following on from the success of these Please email event details to events, Landcare Australia Limited, in [email protected] and feedback forms.

winter 2012 issue 55 | 17 I knew we were on to something that would be positive and emotionally satisfying, but I have to admit I had no idea how much of an impact it would have on so many people

The Macedon Ranges community celebrated their mums at the Trees for Mum planting event organised by the Woodend Landcare Group. Woodend residents honour

their mums with trees By Angela Van Dam

The inaugural Woodend Trees for Mum event took place on Mother’s Day in May with more than 150 people planting 120 Rowena Glenister gets a hand with tree native trees and grasses at Five Mile Creek Reserve in Woodend. planting on Mother’s Day from Bella and Lachlan.

The event was a huge success and even According to co-creator Lauren Adlam the forecast rain held off until the last tree support for the idea has been unequivocal. Participant Sarah Adair said the event was was planted. “I knew we were on to something enjoyable and had personal resonance. “It was a wonderful morning out. What that would be positive and emotionally “Thanks to the Woodend Trees for Mum a great way to celebrate Mother’s Day,” satisfying, but I have to admit I had no idea team we had a special moment planting said local mum Liesl Frankenberg. how much of an impact it would have on trees for two very special mums, who have so many people,” Lauren said. The Trees for Mum initiative was started now become grandmas, but are no longer by two friends and work colleagues from Woodend and Mildura hosted Trees for with us,” Sarah said. Sydney in 2002. Deena Raphael and Mum events for 2012. The Woodend Given the positive feedback from the local Lauren Adlam had both lost their mothers event was made possible due to generous community the Landcare team are planning to cancer and they came up with the funding from the North Central CMA and towards a Trees for Mum event in 2013. concept as a way of paying tribute to the enthusiastic support of the Woodend their special mums. Landcare crew. If you are interested in attending next year email Angela Van Dam at Interest has grown in the event since then The event was a rewarding experience for [email protected] or and Trees for Mum days have been run everyone involved. It gave people an visit the Trees for Mum Woodend Facebook in many states across Australia with more opportunity to create a living legacy on page. For further information about than 20,000 people planting trees as Mother’s Day and made the day less Woodend Landcare sign up for Landcare tributes to mothers who have passed away, painful for many who were remembering blog at www.woodendlandcare.wordpress. or to celebrate those who are still alive. mothers who have died. com/ or call Peter Yates on 5427 3221.

18 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Giving and gaining – working with disabled volunteers By Lisette Mill

Harris-on-Merri is a parcel of Crown disability in south west Victoria, held reserve adjoining the Merri River in a planting day at the reserve for members Warrnambool City. Once a rubbish dump, of the groups and local residents. it has been carefully rehabilitated over the past seven years by members of the Twenty-nine people turned out to help extend some existing areas of vegetation Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Group The Harris-on-Merri Crown Reserve in with support from Warrnambool City as well as fill in the gaps with extra cover. All capacities were catered for. I worked Warrnambool benefited from revegetation works Council. undertaken during a recent social inclusion day. alongside the Karingal volunteers. We Where rubble and garden waste once shared knowledge about using a tree cascaded down the bank onto the planter, how to make tree guards, how estuarine saltmarsh, now sheoaks and to step out the gaps between plants, how correa cloak the rises. Poa and kennedia to use a stake pusher and how to stay edge the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail hydrated. The Karingal volunteers helped I encourage all Landcare groups to Trail that runs through the reserve. us with a steady supply of guards and kept consider not just what we can gain The reserve was recently the site for a us motivated with stories and jokes. from volunteers, but what we can give. pilot project encouraging Landcare to In my years of experience with Landcare in The Basalt to Bay Landcare Network is engage with disability support groups. Australia and New Zealand I have worked seeking to extend this program to other community agencies in the future. We The Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare alongside many people with different hope to spread the positive experience Group, funded by the Basalt to Bay attitudes and abilities. I thoroughly enjoyed of Landcare as widely as possible. Landcare Network and in partnership with the curiosity, enthusiasm and fun my crew Karingal Community Living, an organisation brought along with them on our social For further information email that offers support services to people with a inclusion day. Lisette Mill at [email protected]

FTLA update By Susi Johnson

More than 60 members and guests attendees stayed on to participate in Topics will include employment attended the 2012 Farm Tree & the Landcare employment forum. and employer responsibilities, group succession planning, member Landcare Association (FTLA) forum and The 2012–13 FTLA committee is: recruitment and retention, management annual general meeting in February, with President David Clark, Vice President almost half of the participants attending Karen Alexander, Treasurer Peter and occupational health and safety for the first time. FTLA President Berrisford, Secretary Artur Muchow and responsibilities for staff and volunteers, David Clark greeted the attendees, Ordinary Members Richard Jamieson, Alex managing finances, keeping annual welcomed the new Landcare Facilitator Arbuthnot, Terry Hubbard and Melanie and project accounts and managing funding as well as the opportunity to Husada. The Immediate Past President acquittals, legal obligations of contribute to the State Government’s is Susan Campbell. Aurel Dessewffy committees of management and office Victorian Landcare Program Strategic was thanked for his service and Melanie bearer roles and duties. Plan. David also spoke of changes to the Husada was welcomed to the committee. Renewal reminder Incorporated Associations Act which will Renewal notices were issued in early affect some groups, and reported that Secrets to successful groups – training June and were due 30 June 2012. If you the process of bringing the occupational The FTLA is running its Secrets to Successful Groups Training Program are unsure whether your group has health and safety laws of the different again in 2012. DSE is supporting renewed call the FTLA on 9207 5527 states into line has been delayed. ten sessions across Victoria to assist or email [email protected]. In the past Attendees benefited from presentations Landcarers improve the capacity and some groups have assumed they were on the biodiversity fund, carbon farming health of their groups and networks. The covered by the FTLA insurance and and from DSE on state government training is part of the State Government’s subsequently discovered they were investment in Landcare. A number of Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative. non-financial.

winter 2012 issue 55 | 19 Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators

Corangamite After months of hard work compiling project applications, several Landcare groups and networks have received long-term funding through the Victorian Government’s Communities for Nature program and the Australian Government Biodiversity Fund. The Landcare community has played a vital role in the development of the new Regional Catchment Strategy which will shape the future of natural resource management in the region. More than 125 landholders, students and staff attended two workshops on farming healthy soils with Dr Maarten Stapper. The workshops covered topics on landscapes, farming, food quality and Dr Maarten Stapper (centre) with Colin Hacking (left) and Hayden Findlay from Surf Coast food security. and Inland Plains Network at a farming healthy soils workshop. For further information contact Tracey McRae on 5232 9100. and courses held, 500 hectares of drought wetlands that have come back to life North Central affected pasture renovated, 250 hectares after the last couple of favourable seasons. It has been a busy quarter in the North of saltmarsh protected and seven strategies There are many reports of the return of Central CMA region. Applications for the revised and produced. threatened flora, such as chariot wheels 2012–13 Victorian Landcare Grants have Our networks have been conducting a and fauna such as the carpet python, closed and once again we’ve been inundated series of soil field days across the region regent parrot and bush stone curlew. with submissions, reflecting a Landcare as part of the Healthy Soils Program. This Growling grass frogs are back after they community keen to undertake projects. year Landcare has delivered ten field days were thought to be lost forever after In April the Regional Landcare on diverse topics including determining the such a prolonged drought. These positive Co-ordinator and the Regional Waterwatch need for lime and farm scale composting. sightings are injecting renewed enthusiasm Co-ordinator held the first of three Annual back into the Mallee Landcare community Landholder interest has been very positive Water Science Forums in Newstead. More which augurs well for a flurry of local with 375 people participating in the soil than100 people travelled from across the activities in the months to come. field days. Soils are a hot topic in the region to learn about frogs, frog diets and region and Landcare is right in there For further information contact how to create frog-friendly habitats. getting people’s hands dirty! Kevin Chaplin on 5051 4344. The 2013 Forum will focus on native fish. Landcare continues to develop Wimmera The inaugural Woodend Trees for partnerships with landholders, agencies, Wimmera Landcare is delighted that Mum event took place on Mother’s Day schools, corporates, local business and Yarrilinks has been supported through in May. More than 150 people planted government at all levels across the region. the Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator 120 native trees and grasses at Five Initiative. A terrific Landcare support For further information contact Mile Creek Reserve in Woodend. The team has taken shape in the region with Phillip McGarry on 1300 094 262. event, supported by the CMA, was a huge all Landcare positions working well success due largely to the enthusiasm of Mallee together. the Woodend Landcare crew. The State Government’s Local Landcare Winter is community plant-out season Facilitator Initiative is having a positive For further information contact in the Wimmera. This year’s program impact on group activity right across the Jodie Odgers on 5440 1883. includes 15th anniversary celebrations for Mallee. Groups are focusing on strategic West Gippsland Project Hindmarsh, the flagship project planning for the next three to five years During 2010–2011 Landcare work across of the Hindmarsh Landcare Network. by revisiting previous plans, reassessing the region saw 217,000 trees planted, The Hindmarsh Landcare Network priorities and identifying new areas of 62 hectares of revegetation established, pioneered the concept of bringing city folk interest or concern. 77 kilometres of fencing built, 82 farm to the country to form friendships and and soil management plans completed, Pest plants and animals are still at the top partnerships that benefit communities and 373 hectares of remnant vegetation of the list for most groups, but others are the environment. The network will launch protected, 8880 hectares of weeds now working on remnant areas of native a number of exciting initiatives at the suppressed, 57 field days, workshops vegetation and existing waterways and August 18–19 event.

20 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators

Local groups have wrapped up their projects moving ahead over the coming In late March two community seminars successful 2011–2012 Victorian Landcare four years. were run in Pakenham and Ringwood Grants projects. It is an exciting time in the East. The seminars, ‘Give me some credit: For further information contact region with many good projects underway climate change and the local person on Tony Kubeil on 5761 1619. and strong community input into the the land,’ featured speakers from CSIRO, development of our Regional Catchment East Gippsland DPI, and local farmers. More than 100 Strategy. A number of events were held across people including full-time farmers, part- the region in autumn. The topics time farmers and landowners with rural For further information contact included pasture cropping, resources lifestyle properties attended the seminars. Joel Boyd on 5382 1544. for isolated rural women, rabbit control, The feedback from participants was North East CloverCheque, revegetation strategies for overwhelmingly positive. Congratulations to the Upper Murray threatened ecological vegetation classes For further information contact Landcare Network and the Mid Ovens and breeding stock for profit. Doug Evans on 9712 2296. Landcare Groups for gaining funding through the Victorian Local Landcare More than 90 entries were received for Glenelg Hopkins Facilitators Initiative. Six Landcare and the East Gippsland Landcare Network Groups have been busy finalising their related community groups were also Amateur Photographic Competition. The applications for the 2012–2013 Victorian successful in gaining over $704,000 in winning photograph will be published in Landcare Grants Program. Our best wishes funding from the State Government’s the next edition of the magazine. go to representatives from Friends of the Communities for Nature grants. The Carbon Farming Initiative Roadshow Great South West Walk and the Panyyabyr A new Wodonga Urban Landcare is continuing to provide information and Landcare Group who will be attending the Network is forming, with a large number clarity on this complex topic. The Far East National Landcare Awards in Sydney on of community groups interested in joining. Victoria Landcare Network was nominated 4 September. The North East Landcare Consortium has for a Sustainable Communities Award at The Glenelg Hopkins Landcare Conference been running a range of events in the region the Sustainability Expo in Orbost. will also be held during September. This including an energy expo, sustainability In partnership with Fishcare, Waterwatch, event will provide an opportunity for tours, landlinks and short courses. Coastcare, the CMA and Land for Wildlife, groups to meet key stakeholders and farm The Baranduda Landcare Group is using the region’s volunteers were recognised service providers. The conference will recently acquired pole cameras for nest for their efforts with a Care Day on the feature presentations from groups in the box monitoring. The group has installed Mitchell River. region and a variety of guest speakers. 200 nest boxes for a range of species on Upcoming events include an integrated pest For further information contact roadsides and reserves. The cameras will Tony Lithgow on 5571 2526. simplify the monitoring and recording of management workshop at Lindenow on the box dwellers. For information, images August 15–16, a wildflower identification and videos go to www.landcarevic.net.au/ weekend at Cape Conran on October northeast/baranduda. 13–14, courses on managing horses on small properties at Stratford, Bairnsdale and For further information contact Orbost from November 24 to 28 and the Tom Croft on (02) 6024 9107. Environmental Film Festival Melbourne in Goulburn Broken Orbost from November 9–10. The Landcare team was busy talking For further information contact Landcare with the Minister for Amanda Bartkowski on 5150 3851. Environment and Climate Change in June. The Hindmarsh Landcare Landcare staff and network chairs were Port Phillip and Westernport given an opportunity to show Minister A number of successful Landcare events Network pioneered the Smith a range of different projects during have been run in the region. concept of bringing city his two-day visit to the catchment. In February, 53 people representing folk to the country to form There have been a number of changes 30 different community groups and of Landcare staff in recent months. We networks, and five agencies, gathered friendships and partnerships will be working with networks to ensure at the Melbourne Museum for a that benefit communities good support and training are provided workshop on revitalising Landcare groups. during the transition. Some of the region’s Representatives from the Pentland Hills and and the environment. Conservation Management Networks Three Creeks Landcare Groups shared and environment groups had good results their landholder engagement success with their recent State Government stories and Les Robinson of Enabling Communities for Nature and Australian Change led the audience through his Government Biodiversity Fund grant seven steps for creating an inspiring pitch applications. We look forward to these to invite landholders to take action.

winter 2012 issue 55 | 21 In brief

Vale Ruth Henshall National Landcare Conference Ruth Henshall, who was working in one The Department of Agriculture, of the new Victorian Landcare Facilitator Fisheries and Forestry is hosting the Initiative positions at the Upper Mount 2012 National Landcare Conference to Emu Creek Landcare Network, be held from 3 to 5 September at the was tragically killed in a car crash at National Convention and Exhibition Penshurst on 14 July 2012. Centre in Sydney. Ruth and her young daughter Emily had The conference theme is ‘Landcare – become a feature at many kitchen tables the future in our hands’. The conference during her short time with the Network. Never short of an idea, or an opinion, will bring together people who are Ruth’s warm and engaging manner interested in creating sustainable was bolstered by a huge heart and a landscapes for the 21st century. This commitment to what Landcare is all includes Landcare and community about; improving landscapes and building groups, land managers and farmers, strong communities. industry, regional bodies and government representatives from across Australia. Ruth’s colleague David Clark from the Lexton Landcare Group said she had For further information go to described her new position as her www.daff.gov.au/landcareconference dream job. 2012 Victorian Landcare Forum “She was a treasure of ideas and had The Victorian Landcare Council is the right attitude to get stuff done. running a Victorian Landcare Forum, We will all miss her terribly,” David said. hosted by the Corangamite CMA. Ruth spent time volunteering for The theme of the forum is ‘Landcare – Parks Victoria in the Ballarat and living and learning together’. Warrnambool areas, participated as a The forum will provide a professional Landcare volunteer in Warrnambool and worked with Local Government development opportunity for Landcare climate adaptation programs. facilitators, co-ordinators and group members. The forum will be held in The Network has been receiving Geelong from Monday 29 October Atem from Sudan (front) and Albert donations from friends and family in to Wednesday 31 October 2012. from India (rear) having a lot of fun honour of Ruth and will undertake a at a Yarrilinks community planting project in her memory in the coming For further information contact weekend at Murtoa last year. See the planting season. Tracey McRae on 5232 9100. story about Yarrilinks on pages 4 and 5.

The Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine is published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment and distributed in partnership with the Farm Tree & Landcare Association and the Victorian Catchment Management Council. The magazine aims to raise awareness of Landcare and natural resource management among Victorian farmers, landholders, the Victorian Landcare community and the wider community.

Mailing list enquiries Executive Officer Farm Tree & Landcare Association Phone: 9207 5527 Fax: 9207 5500 Email: [email protected] To receive your copy via email alert Contact Jessica Barnes Phone: 9637 8190 Email: [email protected] Read the magazine online Back issues of the Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine can be found at www.dse.vic.gov.au/victorianlandcaremagazine The print size of the magazine can be enlarged online for easier reading.

Published on 100% recycled and recyclable paper VICTORIAN

Spring/Summer 2012 Issue 56 & Catchment Management

INTERNATIONAL LANDCARE FEATURE African Landcarers meet in Mafikeng Landcare rebuilds in Indonesia after volcano tragedy

Sharing conservation stories in Montana spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 1 Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management

SPRING/SUMMER 2012 I ssue 5 6

6 Contents 03 From the Minister

04 Environmental detectives on the Bass Coast Bass Coast Landcare groups are helping local schools with their environmental studies as a way of connecting with young people and encouraging them to get involved in Landcare.

06 Volunteer wisdom from the Friends of Westgate Park According to Tony Flude from the Friends of Westgate Park respect is one of the main reasons the Friends have been so successful at recruiting and retaining volunteers. “We treat all volunteers with respect. We give them interesting and worthwhile activities to complete and take the time for a chat.”

Footscray City Primary School students 09 African Landcarers meet in Mafikeng have fun at Westgate Park last year. Delegates from Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Rwanda, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe attended the Republic of South Africa’s fifth biennial LandCare Conference in Mafikeng recently.

11 12 A grand vision in Waikato delivers local wisdom Geoff Park reflects on some lessons learnt during his travel and study fellowship to New Zealand.

16 Landcare in Germany Beate Kretinger and Marie Kaerlein report on the development of Landcare in Germany where supporting regional identity is a priority.

18 Sharing landscape-scale conservation stories in Montana A workshop in the Blackfoot watershed of Montana, USA brought landholders, agency and community members together to share different experiences of landscape-scale collaborative conservation projects.

20 Landcare success in a Tongan village The challenging Merapi slopes in Central Java. The Rotary Club of Frankston North is supporting a community Landcare project in the Tongan village of Popua.

22 Around the State 19 News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators.

Editorial Advisory Committee This publication is copyright. No part may be Karen Brisbane Victorian Landcare Team, reproduced by any process except in accordance Melissa Whitelaw Landcare Australia Limited, with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Tracey Koper Victorian Catchment Management Authorised by the Victorian Government, Council, Ugo Mantelli DPI, Susi Johnson FTLA, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. Jessica Barnes DSE, Tara Dalton DSE. Editorial contributions ISSN 1327 5496 Carrie Tiffany, PO Box 1135, The State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee Mitcham North 3132 Phone 0405 697 548 that this publication is without flaw of any kind or is E-mail: [email protected] wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and Cover photograph therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other Chris McDonough discussing farming Ugandan Landcare farmers welcome participants consequences which may arise from you relying on any systems and needs with Eritrean farmers. to a Landcare master class held at Mbale, information in this publication. 250 kilometres east of Kampala in March this The State of Victoria acknowledges contributions made by year, by Rob Youl. private enterprise and other persons or groups interested in © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability Landcare. Acceptance of these contributions, however, does and Environment 2012. not endorse or imply endorsement by the State of Victoria of any product, service, or view offered by contributors.

2 | victorian landcare and catchment management From the Minister

In this edition, we pack our bags for Since getting started last year, the Red Cliffs an international adventure to see how Community Landcare Group, made up of different countries have picked up Landcare students, teachers and parents, has been and successfully run with it. focusing on local actions that benefit the wider community. We look to Africa, New Zealand, Tonga, Indonesia and Germany to find out how Activities such as the sustainable garden, communities have adapted Landcare to suit built to grow the produce used in the their own culture, landscape and natural school cooking classes, are a great way During Landcare week in resource management priorities. of using resources and I congratulate September, I launched the everyone involved for their contribution to The international uptake of Landcare is a the environment and wider community. Victorian Landcare Program testament to those pioneering Landcarers who travelled abroad to share their At the beginning of October I had the Strategic Plan, which knowledge and expertise, as well as privilege of launching a new plan to hosting study tours back home to share co-ordinate $1 billion worth of works will guide the Victorian their lessons and experience. over the next five years across the state’s Government’s key program waterways to improve the health of the During Landcare week in September, I Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay. of support to strengthen launched the Victorian Landcare Program Strategic Plan, which will guide the The plan of action – A Cleaner Yarra River Landcare. Victorian Government’s key program of and Port Phillip Bay – sets out a clear path support to strengthen Landcare. of investment, action and responsibility to improve the quality of the Yarra and Bay. Working in partnership with the Landcare I hope you will take the opportunity to community, the Victorian Government have a look at the plan, which can be welcomes the opportunity to continue found at www.dse.vic.gov.au working towards achieving the goal of the Victorian Landcare Program, which is to As the warm weather settles in, I’d like to have a shared responsibility for a healthy wish you a safe and happy festive season environment. as we all look forward to more inspiring Landcare stories and successes in 2013. The strategic plan was developed with the input of the Landcare community with feedback coming in from all across the state, and I would like to thank everyone for their valuable contributions. During a visit to the Mallee CMA region in September, I visited the area’s newest Landcare group, which runs out of the Red Ryan Smith Cliffs Secondary College, thanks to funding Minister for Environment and provided by the Victorian Landcare Program. Climate Change

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 3 The program highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy environment by investigating the little creatures that we often don’t think about.

Wonthaggi Primary School students conduct a macro invertebrate survey at the Wonthaggi wetlands. Bass Coast Landcare groups enlist local students as environmental detectives By Sara Van Stokrom

Covering transport costs and providing up their properties as monitoring sites to land management,” Nick said. technical knowledge and equipment and volunteer to help tutor students The network sees the program as a have been the key to getting local school with monitoring techniques alongside way of connecting with young people students involved in Landcare in the Bass trained Landcare staff. Other funding and encouraging them to get involved Coast area. has been contributed by DSE through in Landcare activities in the future. a Landcare Volunteer Action Grant The Bass Coast Landcare Network Project to help with purchasing equipment For more information go to (BCLN) has been involved with schools kits and to subsidise transport costs. www.basscoastlandcare.org.au or in the network area since it was set up in contact Sarah Van Stokrom on 5678 2335. 2004, but it had always been on an ad hoc According to Nick Sibly, a teacher at basis. The relationship between BCLN Wonthaggi Secondary College, the and local schools has been significantly program fits into the environmental science strengthened through the development of component of the horticulture course an environmental detectives program. taught in year nine at the college. Students search for bugs in local wetlands, “The students respond very well to the count worms in soil samples, squish mud hands on aspect of the activities and through their fingers to determine soil type, gain much insight into a world that they listen for frog calls and watch the flight previously had not been aware of. of birds in a local patch of remnant bush. “The program highlights the importance The activities are provided as part of a set of maintaining a healthy environment by list that is aligned with school curriculum. investigating the little creatures that we A major barrier to schools participating in often don’t think about. It shows students Landcare activities has been the cost of that if the environment is healthy at the transport and lack of technical knowledge macro level, then we can be confident Students from Wonthaggi Secondary College and equipment. Each of the 10 Landcare that the land practices are heading in the gain insight into the work of Landcare with groups in the network sponsor schools in right direction. If the results are poor then activities at the local wetlands. their area every year to help with bus hire. it challenges the students to think about Group members also open what may need to change with regards

4 | victorian landcare and catchment management Controlling holly is difficult as its waxy leaves make it resistant to sprays. Trees have to be cut and the stumps painted. Cut branches will regrow if they come into contact with the ground.

Holly in the otherwise pristine Back Creek at Blackwood. Holly is a thorny enemy in Blackwood By Shane Scanlan

Holly enjoys a positive reputation with The weed is grown ornamentally in the public, which makes it a difficult gardens throughout the town. The environmental weed to combat in our Garden of St Erth grows the weed in Landcare region based around Blackwood well-manicured hedges while only a few in the Wombat State Forest. hundred metres away, holly dominates the bed and banks of the shaded Back Blackwood Landcare Group member John Creek, a tributary of the Lerderderg River. Davies has been at the forefront of the battle against invasive weeds in the Blackwood area. Holly was allowed to flourish for decades John is working with Melbourne Water to clear (possibly even more than a century) and had Back Creek of holly. colonised vast areas of our local waterways before any serious attempt at eradication The group is gearing up for a public was undertaken. In recent years Melbourne education campaign to target the emotional Water has been spending significant sums in attachment that local gardeners have for the battle against this destructive weed. holly. We are also talking to the Shire Controlling holly is difficult as its waxy of Moorabool about other options to leaves make it resistant to sprays. Trees assist with control of holly and other local have to be cut and the stumps painted. problem weeds. Cut branches will regrow if they come into The fight against weeds needs to be contact with the ground. assessed at a local level. Most landowners within our shire are primarily concerned It costs up to six times more to tackle holly with serrated tussock, but it’s not a than weeds which respond to chemical problem for our group. Some people sprays. Holly is not a declared or regional wouldn’t give holly a second thought. priority weed as it will only flourish in specific micro-climates. It is a major Shane Scanlan is the president of the This immaculately maintained holly hedge is concern for the Blackwood and Barry’s Blackwood and Barry’s Reef Landcare within several hundred metres of the infested Reef Landcare Group as we are aware of Group. For further information email Back Creek at Blackwood. the environmental damage it causes. [email protected]

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 5 We treat all volunteers with respect. We give them interesting and worthwhile activities to complete and take the time for a chat.

Footscray City Primary School students have fun at Westgate Park last year. Respect is the key to working with volunteers at Westgate Park

Tucked under Melbourne’s The Wesgate Park site is managed by Parks Green Job Corps volunteers, Women Victoria, with the Friends of Westgate Park from the Good Shepherd Foundation’s Westgate Bridge is a gem who are delivering the revegetation project Outlandish Program which assists across the 40-hectare park. The aim is marginalised people, adults with minor of a park that has been for maximum biodiversity, with volunteers disabilities fostered by Central Bayside gradually converting the park to appropriate Community Health Services, other diverse created almost entirely ecosystems closely resembling the cultural, youth and religious groups and pre-settlement vegetation, with regionally birdwatchers. by volunteers. Westgate indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses. Park was established in The Friends program averages 1000 volunteer hours each month. A few 1985 to mark the 150th regular Friends contribute up to 150 hours monthly, with others managing 10–20 anniversary of the founding hours. More significant is the wide variety of support that the Friends group has been of Melbourne. By 2000 the able to attract from the wider community. park was badly degraded. Strong relationships with corporations whose employees are paid to participate Much of the vegetation that in community projects have brought huge numbers of volunteers to the park, had been planted fifteen sometimes accompanied by generous donations. A number of these major years earlier was dying and corporations have been returning to complete different activities at the park weeds had a stranglehold. for more than seven years. Other volunteers include work-for- the-dole participants, retirees seeking worthwhile and satisfying activities, school children, local and overseas people enlisted by Conservation Volunteers Australia, Westgate Park neighbours spread mulch clients of Landcare Australia Limited, with staff from Boeing.

6 | victorian landcare and catchment management IBM staff appreciated the physical workout and a day in the park as they moved mulch for their centenary celebration in June 2011.

Respect is the key to working with volunteers at Westgate Park By Rob Youl

According to Friends group member Tony a chat around the fire – it’s a good way to Flude there are two main reasons why get to know people.” the Friends have been so successful at The Friends target activities to particular recruiting and retaining volunteers. groups. Corporate teams are often made “First of all we have this terrific site very up of energetic young people who like close to Melbourne. It is a surprisingly to get stuck in and achieve a lot. Other beautiful place to be. People get a real volunteers work at a different pace, but sense of satisfaction from working here and may be more inclined to return to the if they come back they can clearly see how park and make a long-term commitment. things are improving and what they have The Friends group has retained work-for- achieved. the-dole volunteers after their obligations “Respect is the other critical ingredient. We have finished. treat all volunteers with respect. We give “Five of our most active and regular them interesting and worthwhile activities Friends originally came to us through Staff from PricewaterhouseCoopers chat to complete and take the time for a chat.” work-for-the-dole and have kept on while they plant trees at Westgate Park. Respect is evident in how volunteer coming,” Tony said. activities are planned. All tools and According to George Fotheringham, equipment are on hand and occupational president of Friends of Westgate Park, health and safety training is conducted. the impetus for attracting volunteers to They picked us and have helped us to find Members of the Friends group explain the the park came from Landcare Australia the funding to make the project work.” different tasks to volunteers and what their Limited in the late 1990s. contribution will achieve. George admits that this has placed an “The Melbourne office was fielding obligation on the group to perform well, “We don’t just ask people to plant trees,” numerous enquiries from people wanting but they don’t regret a minute of it. Tony said. to work for the environment. They were “Working to transform the park provides “We talk about what we are planting and looking for a long-term, iconic project near us with an enormous sense of satisfaction. why. We explain the sort of bird species the city that was close to public transport. Being able to share that with so many different plants will attract. And social They wanted a project with interesting other people has been a gift.” activities are critical. All of our activities human dimensions, that was flexible and start and finish at the depot with tea, reliable and that gave volunteers an insight For further information visit coffee and biscuits. In winter we have into the complexity of Landcare. www.friends-of-westgatepark.org.au

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 7 Site visits recruit new members

in the Southern Dandenongs By Vicki Boyle

The Dandenongs are a tourist drawcard with their tall mountain ash forests and lush fern gullies. However, tourist and residential pressures are taking their toll with environmental weeds threatening to change the nature of the forest unless their spread can be halted.

Most of these weeds are garden escapes such as ivy, holly, sycamore maple, honeysuckle and agapanthus. The Southern Dandenongs Landcare Group had a large email list but needed to recruit more hands-on members to the cause. The group used a DSE Landcare Volunteer Action Project Grant to offer free site assessments for local landholders who joined the group. The assessments were seen as a positive way to connect with people and introduce them to Landcare. Group members were trained to do the basic site assessments by local ecologist and group member Darcy Duggan. The focus was the sustainable management of environmental weeds and protection of remnant indigenous vegetation to protect local biodiversity. Each participant received a written their particular interests. This included the assessment report and a resource file with local food harvest group, visual platypus information on sustainable living. Group monitoring, wildlife monitoring, community members underestimated the time each nursery, stormwater management and assessment would take, finding some various Friends groups. blocks much larger than others and some The assessments were a great opportunity very steep with accessibility problems. to welcome participants into the Landcare Participants were eager for general group and explain to them that managing environmental information. their property sustainably makes a huge Group members found they needed to impact on the protection of significant have a good knowledge of exotic garden environmental assets such as the plants as well as indigenous plants and to Dandenong Ranges National Park. be able to answer questions about fruit According to the group secretary, Anne and vegetable gardening, permaculture, Elizabeth, the assessors also benefited local by-laws, indigenous fauna, the from their participation with increased management of stream frontage and other confidence and skills. local Friends groups. The resource file just kept expanding. “It has been a really worthwhile endeavour for all concerned. We will continue The site assessments provided the group the project as part of our long-term with good information on localised weed community education and engagement infestations and arrangements were program. We would like to thank DSE and made to have many of these removed Port Phillip and Westernport CMA who by the landholder or a contractor. Advice helped to fund the project and encouraged was given on the protection of locally Southern Dandenongs Landcare Group us to try something new.” member and ecologist Darcy Duggan training threatened orchid species and other locally volunteer site assessors in an area infested rare plants. The assessments also allowed For further information email Vicki Boyle by Tradescantia fluminensis, a common for participants to be referred to other from the Southern Dandenongs Landcare environmental weed. community groups for assistance with Group at [email protected]

8 | victorian landcare and catchment management African Landcarers meet in Mafikeng

By Mieke Bourne and Clinton Muller

Delegates from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Rwanda, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe gathered in Mafikeng, in October to attend the Republic of South Africa’s fifth biennial LandCare Conference, at which Australian Rob Youl spoke on Landcare across the world. The African Landcare Network (ALN) held its third meeting during the conference. ALN is a network of individuals, institutions, government and non-government organisations committed to championing Landcare in Africa. The main goal of ALN is to build and support a network of country Landcare programs across Africa. The ALN is chaired by South Africa and Members of the African Landcare Network held their third meeting during the recent Republic of the secretariat is housed at the World South Africa’s fifth biennial LandCare Conference. Agroforestry Centre in Nairobi, Kenya. South Africa Landcare’s support for the network is and the communities that drive it,” Jan said. and the ALN demonstrates that there are a wonderful example of the multiplier effect no boundaries or borders when sharing The Mafikeng conference was a great stemming from Australia’s investment in Landcare experience and the value of South African Landcare that started in 1997. opportunity for delegates to share ideas doing so should never be underestimated. and approaches. Awadh Chemangi from With the support of ALN many more African Kapchorwa District Landcare Chapter in Mieke Bourne and Clinton Muller countries will be able to further adopt and Uganda said, “The conference also gave me work for the World Agroforestry Centre develop the Landcare model to assist in the understanding that Landcare could be in Nairobi which provides secretariat achieving community empowerment, project carried to where we used to think it could support for the African Landcare sustainability and improved food security. not be applied, such as the dry pastoral Network. For further information go to The introduction of more developed lands in the northern parts of Uganda.” www.worldagroforestry.org/projects/landcare Landcare programs to other countries is a According to Dr Joseph Mutua from Kenya or email Mieke or Clinton on cyclic process. Jan Smit, a Landcare Manager the most important part of Landcare is the [email protected] or [email protected] from Western Cape in South Africa, recently inspiration. attended the National Landcare Conference in Sydney and witnessed the bottom up “It gives you the energy and drive to move approach of Landcare. your process a step higher. The biggest steps in establishing Landcare in Kenya “The thing that hit me the most is the have happened after seeing other places foundation that I saw. In Australia Landcare and sharing experiences,” he said. is built on honesty, trust, respect and voluntary work in the community to All of the delegates left the conference manage the natural resources in support having had a positive cross-learning of livelihoods, the caring for your land, experience. The success of the conference The introduction of more developed Landcare programs to other countries is a cyclic process.

A field trip to Eska-Newham and Kgokojane in the north-west province of South Africa to look at veld improvement projects.

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 9 Landcare rebuilds in Indonesia

after volcano tragedy By Victoria Mack

On 26 October 2010 Indonesia’s most active volcano, Mt Merapi, erupted and 353 people lost their lives. It was the worst eruption in 100 years. More than 300,000 people were evacuated from a 20-kilometre exclusion zone around the volcano’s core, leaving crops, livestock and livelihoods untended for many weeks.

The eruption also destroyed plant Merapi Landcare is run solely by Indonesians. to communicate with villagers and biogas nurseries and more than 14,000 shrubs, Landcare support has been provided since installations to provide alternative energy grasses, timber, fruit and coffee trees 2009 on a voluntary basis by the Victorian for cooking and lighting. established by Indonesia’s first Landcare non-government organisation, the Secretariat Since the eruption, the Landcare project program – Merapi Landcare. for International Landcare (SILC). has gradually returned to its agenda Merapi Landcare, with its four operational Merapi Landcare works like any Australian although the momentum and direction Landcare groups, is centred on the villages Landcare network with a cluster of self- have changed. The installation of biogas of Samiran and Lencoh within the larger governing groups setting goals, strategies plants, the upgrading of the radio station, village of Selo on the northern slopes of and implementation plans. In Samiran and support for the women’s enterprise Mt Merapi in Central Java. The area is Lencoh these goals have included planting group and value adding to the village dairy home to 7000 people. deep-rooted vegetation to prevent land production are now top priority. These villages were not in the direct slips and erosion after torrential rain, new The biogas project involves collecting deadly path of the eruption, but they were crops to diversify and improve economic methane from housed dairy and beef significantly affected by damaging ash which opportunities, women’s enterprise groups cattle. The manure from one or two cows blanketed the northern slopes. The ash to improve family incomes, nurseries to can power more than 50 per cent of the also wiped out farmers’ crops and set back propagate trees, shrubs, grasses and crops, energy needs of one home. It reduces the the lives of the villagers, and the Landcare value adding to existing crops and dairy time-consuming harvesting of timber from program, by over 12 months. production, a community radio station surrounding reserves and national parks.

Merapi Landcare works like any Australian Landcare network with a cluster of self-governing groups setting goals, strategies and implementation plans.

Indonesian delegates at the National Landcare Conference in Sydney in September 2012, Sartono,Uyung Pramudiyanto and Sutar.

10 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Two years on Landcare members are still cleaning up after the eruption.

The challenging Merapi slopes in Central Java.

It also saves extra money spent on understanding of how Landcare works kerosene or LPG for cooking. Biogas in Australia. They tell me their visit has improves the health of women who had re-energised their Landcare plans. previously worked over smoky kitchen SILC plans to continue to support the fires. Manure can also be sold to other Indonesian Landcare program in coming villagers who do not have cows, requiring months and years in collaboration with only a small amount each month to power the Indonesian Landcare team, which a domestic unit. is currently based in Yogyakarta. A study The radio station is now fully operational. tour to Indonesia for interested Australian In September 2010 a $500 donation from Landcare volunteers is also planned in the Dhurringile and District Landcare 2013. Group from the Goulburn Broken region Victoria Mack (along with Sue Marriott) in Victoria helped Merapi Landcare to A community radio station staffed by farmers repair a broken radio transmitter. Locals is a Director of SILC and provides Landcare support to the Merapi Landcare Project. on a voluntary basis helps spread the went on to purchase additional radio Landcare message. equipment with their own funds and the For more information please contact station, run by farmers on a voluntary Victoria Mack at [email protected] roster, now broadcasts daily. The women’s enterprise group started a catering service and has now completed training in the vacuum frying of vegetable The Secretariat for International Landcare and fruit chips from indigenous persimmon and farmed carrots. The Secretariat for International Landcare demonstrating what is possible; what (SILC) Inc. is an Australian non-profit ordinary people can do. SILC creates Two years on Landcare members are still organisation based in Victoria, Australia. opportunities for positive and informed cleaning up after the eruption. The ash sets like concrete when wet and much work After working with South Africa between interaction between the existing Landcare still needs to be done clearing drainage 1995 and 1997, the founding directors movement and emerging international lines and waterways. The groups meet of SILC realised the potential benefits interest in Landcare. of extending the principles of Landcare regularly and organise working bees on One of SILC’s strengths is that it is a internationally. When SILC started there community and environmental projects. small and dedicated group that is able was no organisation, government or non- to respond to enquiries quickly, flexibly Three members of Merapi Landcare government, dedicated to showcasing attended the National Landcare Australian Landcare to other countries. and effectively. SILC is highly collaborative Conference in Sydney this year supported and has extensive networks throughout by AUSAID’s International Seminar Support SILC has been a major driver of the the international Landcare family. Scheme. The delegates participated in the international Landcare movement since For information contact www.silc.com.au full six-day program including Landcare 1998. A key component in Landcare is field trips aimed at increasing their

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 11 The entrance to Maungatautari, New Zealand’s largest ecological island.

A grand vision in Waikato delivers local wisdom My career in natural resource management has been long, varied and always interesting. As one of the developers of the Investment Framework for Environmental Resources (INFFER) I have been involved in efforts to improve the rigour and transparency of environmental decision making across Australia and internationally in Canada, China and New Zealand.

For the past 10 years I have also been people doing innovative and inspiring a trustee of the Norman Wettenhall work on community-based biodiversity Foundation, a philanthropic organisation conservation. One of the highlights was dedicated to enhancing and maintaining the my visit to the Maungatautari Restoration vitality and diversity of Australia’s natural Project. Located in the Waikato region near living environment. In recent years the Cambridge, this is the largest ecological foundation has committed to supporting project in the country. grass-roots approaches to biodiversity During the ten-day study conservation. The project is engineered to remove all non-native pest mammals and predators and tour I visited projects in the In September 2009 I was honoured to restore endangered native flora and fauna to North Island and met people receive the Dr. Sidney Plowman Travel Maungatautari. This is a community project and Study Award. I used the award to that includes private land and a government- doing innovative and inspiring examine community-based approaches owned scenic reserve administered by to biodiversity conservation in New Waipa District Council. work on community-based Zealand. Regional councils in New Zealand biodiversity conservation. are superficially similar to Australian CMAs, With 47 kilometres of predator proof but they have greater statutory power fence enclosing 3400 hectares of largely and autonomy in decision making. I was intact native forest, Maungatautari is the keen to explore these arrangements largest ecological island on mainland New and learn how they have influenced Zealand. The project is a truly community- community participation in decision driven initiative, involving a complex array making compared with Australia. of stakeholders. During the 10-day study tour I visited My visit to Maungatautari highlighted projects in the North Island and met the importance of having a grand and

12 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Travel and study fellowships on offer

Entries for the Victorian Landcare Awards will be open in 2013 and applications will be sought for the Heather Mitchell Memorial Fellowship and the Dr Sidney Plowman Travel and Study Award. Norman Wettenhall Foundation Trustees on a field trip near Castlemaine. Geoff Park hopes he can bring lessons learned from his study tour to New Zealand back to the work of community The Heather Mitchell Memorial organisations like the Norman Wettenhall Foundation. Fellowship is open to community members and support staff of Victorian Landcare (or other community natural resource management) groups or networks. The fellowship is awarded A grand vision in Waikato delivers local wisdom By Geoff Park to a Landcarer who has demonstrated a substantial contribution to Victorian community Landcare at a group or My career in natural resource management has been long, varied and always interesting. As one of the developers of the Investment Framework network level and is to be used for for Environmental Resources (INFFER) I have been involved in efforts to improve the rigour and transparency of environmental decision making travel, study or some other form of professional development. across Australia and internationally in Canada, China and New Zealand. The fellowship honours Heather Mitchell, a former Victorian Farmers compelling vision underpinned by The tour gave me a chance to reflect on Federation president, who was appropriate governance and decision- many aspects of my work, it re-energised fundamental in the formation of the making structures. The project is me and affirmed the direction I thought I Landcare movement. managed by a board of adjoining should take. Looking back three years later landholders, community representatives, I realise what a wonderful opportunity The Dr Sidney Plowman Travel and Mana Whenua (the local Maori people it was. I pay tribute to Dr Plowman for Study Award is presented to an with territorial authority), conservation establishing the award and encourage employee of DPI, DSE or a Victorian agencies and the district council. The level others to apply. CMA who has demonstrated an of volunteer effort involved in the project outstanding contribution towards is inspirational. reversing land degradation on farms. The award can be used for a study tour The trip to New Zealand has had a More information on the or professional development. number of impacts on my work back in Maungatautari Ecological Trust is Australia. It has made me more aware that available at www.maungatrust.org Further information will be available we live in a world of complexity, where The Norman Wettenhall Foundation when the Victorian Landcare interwoven ecological, social and economic website is www.nwf.org Awards are announced next year. factors often hamper the ability of people Go to the Landcare Gateway at and communities to work together for INFFER is a natural asset-based www.landcarevic.net.au productive outcomes. approach to environmental planning. It integrates community and scientific Over the years a number of my friends knowledge, bringing a transparent, and colleagues have received the study evidence-based and pragmatic award and hearing about their experiences approach to natural resource motivated me to apply. A 10-day trip may management. Go to www.inffer.org seem like a minor detour in a 25-year career, but this was not the case.

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 13 A week of Landcare guidance in Uganda

In March this year the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF) organised a Landcare master class at Mbale, Uganda, 250 kilometres east of Kampala. The five-day master class included a field day examining successful Landcare projects at Kapchorwa on the slopes Eastern Ugandan Landcare by Rob Youl. Master class participants and local farmers on the slopes of Mt Elgon. The two groups represented were the Kaplelko Agro Forestry Farmers Group and of Mt Elgon. Juwa Kali Sunflower Farmers Association.

The master class attracted participants from Australians Dennis Garrity, Mieke Bourne, shared and analysed the lessons that had Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Malawi Julian Prior, Theo Nabben, Mary Johnson, been learned in these areas. Sessions on and Ethiopia. They included national-level Bruce Lloyd, Rowan Reid and myself were building effective community groups and policy makers, community facilitators, involved in facilitating the master class. facilitation skills were well received along existing Landcare partners and staff from East African facilitators included Joseph with the role of women in Landcare. non-government organisations. Mutua, Charles Lyamchai, Awadh Simon, During the final master class sessions the Simon Nyangas, Awadh Chemangei and Participants met empowered Landcare different groups produced basic Landcare Masingita Chauke. groups and examined some of their activities plans for their home countries. ICRAF is which included domestic dairy cattle coupled The training covered Landcare principles, assisting the African Landcare Network to with biogas plants, honey production to policy, organisational and financial run a master class for Southern Africa next help stabilise park and forest boundaries, management, fundraising, incentives, year. Other international Landcare partners agroforestry and sunflower oil co-operatives communication, technology, monitoring, are looking at classes in other parts of the and tackling streamside erosion. evaluation and networking. The Australians world.

Kapchorwa’s mayor, Sam Cheptoris (centre), a great advocate for Landcare, speaks to the master class students and local farmers.

14 |  victorian landcare and catchment management A week of Landcare guidance in Uganda By Rob Youl Community-owned catchment

By James Barnett Australian Landcare International management in NZ

Australian Landcare International (ALI) is a not-for-profit organisation started in 2008. Its members have been involved Water quality is a key issue in New Zealand and pressure in Landcare in Australia at policy, program is building among many water users, which in some cases and operational levels for more than 20 years. has resulted in conflict and division. The goal of ALI is to use our collective Landcare experience to support people in other countries to manage their land The National Policy Statement achieve effective, sustained change. and water resources more sustainably. on Freshwater Management that It outlines the role and value of ALI promotes Landcare to national and was released by the New Zealand community ownership, and addresses international organisations, trains overseas strategic approaches as well as participants in Landcare within Australia Government in 2011 specifies the practical actions. In addition, a series and in home countries and makes requirements for regionally set connections between people and minimum standards before 2014 of master classes will build upon projects in Australia and overseas. and further regulation is inevitable. aspects of the guide and provide This will help clarify the issue, but an opportunity to discuss ideas. Australian Landcare International tension around the needs of primary The ultimate aim of the new draws upon expertise through its producers is also likely to increase. specific database of members, its initiative is to highlight genuine value wider network and its relationships with There are water management of community engagement within various organisations, both corporate success stories in New Zealand and catchment level projects and how and government. ALI manages a travel they often share a common theme this approach offers long-term benefits fellowship, funded by private donors, – collaboration. Established in 1996, that can improve the quality of New for an experienced Australian Landcarer the New Zealand Landcare Trust Zealand’s freshwater resources. has been involved in a number of to visit a nominated country. Fellows James Barnett is the community driven projects where have visited Sri Lanka, USA, New Zealand, Communications Manager at collaboration has played a major South Korea and Kenya. the NZ Landcare Trust. Further role. By engaging and working with ALI members have made visits to information is available at farmers, landowners, industry, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Tonga, the www.landcare.org.nz or by emailing local authorities, iwi (tribal people), Philippines, South Korea and the United [email protected] scientists, recreational users and States to discuss the implementation of a Landcare approach to sustainable food conservationists, the Trust has helped production and resource conservation. communities to identify their own solutions. With help from Landcare International, ALI is currently developing a plan for With this in mind the NZ Landcare a professional multinational bureau to Trust was approached by the Ministry promote Landcare. It also continues to for the Environment and asked to seek funding from the corporate and produce a publication and education government sectors to develop new program to highlight the benefits projects. Anyone can become a member of community engagement in rural and companies or organisations can also catchment management projects. get involved. The theory of community engagement For further information visit may sound great, but delivery is far www.australianlandcareinternational.com from straightforward. Community- owned Rural Catchment Management: A guide for partners is a publication that examines common themes Rob Youl has been involved in Landcare running through successful projects. in Australia since its formation. He is a The guide underlines the idea that forester and the chair of Australian Landcare Graham communitiesWood and Faye must Tuchtan own inan front issue of tothe International. For further information email dam they built on their property at Bass. The Rob at [email protected] dam has ended their reliance on mains water.

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 15 Landcare in Germany – working together for varied

landscapes By Beate Kretinger and Marie Kaerlein

Landcare got underway in Germany in 1985 with the The Lichtenfels Landcare Association organised a hill race to raise awareness for an endangered formation of the first Landcare Association. There are beetle, Sandlaufkäfer. The participation of a 155 Landcare Associations – at least one in every federal world champion created community interest. state across the country.

The Landcare Associations are made up Supporting regional identity is one of the Landcare in Bavaria is co-ordinated of farmers, environmentalists and local aims of Landcare in Germany. In Bavaria by a state facilitator, employed at the authorities and they work closely with local one of the Landcare priorities is to keep German Association of Landcare (DVL), and regional communities. ecologically valuable orchards in use by the the umbrella organisation of all regional exchange of old and new knowledge (tree Landcare Associations. The Landcare Associations act as advisers pruning and the use of apple collectors), and mediate schemes on private and planting new orchards and supporting the In Bavaria the DVL manages a project community land. They give nature regional processing and marketing of the called Bayern Ureinwohner – a public conservation advice for biodiversity cider and apple-juice products. relations campaign focusing on the region’s protection and plan measures to improve rare animal and plant species. Inventive and the ecological value of man-made Ecologically valuable grazing grounds are creative events such as hill races, concerts landscapes. also being enhanced and protected by and art shows organised by Landcare introducing regional marketing projects for Associations help to raise awareness The work of the associations can include lamb meat to support local sheep farmers for environmental issues in the wider planting hedges and preserving orchards, and co-operating with local restaurants, community. mowing wetlands and cutting scrub on hotels and butchers. With the help of ecologically valuable grazing grounds. farmers and community, bushes and trees For further information contact The Landcare Associations open up are cut back on grazing grounds to create Beate Krettinger by email at financial resources (European and/or state open habitats for endangered herbs. [email protected] funds) and co-ordinate the implementation of works mainly done by local farmers. More than 20,000 farmers work for nature protection within our Landcare Associations in Germany each year. The success and popularity of the associations is based on the fact they are non-government organisations, they work on the basis of parity (there are equal numbers of environmentalists, farmers and local politicians on the boards) and all participation is voluntary. Landcare Associations only offer advice to local authorities, farmers and other private landowners on request. Landcare in Bavaria The idea of Landcare started in Bavaria in the mid-eighties. There are now 55 Landcare Associations in Bavaria, working together with 3500 farmers and 220 shepherds. More than 60 per cent of the state-funded Landcare measures are implemented by the Landcare Members of the Landcare Association of Central Franconia clearing scrub at Hesselberg, Associations. the highest peak in Central Franconia.

16 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Australia’s Master TreeGrower course heads to Africa By Clinton Tepper

Australian forester Rowan Reid ran the first Master TreeGrower course in the Otways in 1996. Since then he has run 98 courses across Australia involving 2000 Australian landholders and more than 100 contractors, extension staff and professionals who work with them.

The course is considered to have changed and two Americans currently working in the nature of farm forestry extension in Niger to Victoria for the two-week course. Australia. The first week was spent in Gippsland and In 2010 Rowan Reid and Jon Lambert included tours of various forestry projects were invited to participate in an and sawmills. The African participants saw agroforestry workshop in Nairobi, Kenya. how farmers are taught about markets, Jon, a forester and former student of measurement and the management Rowan’s, is the director of the non-profit of trees on farms. The second week Christian development organisation, was spent with the Otway Agroforestry Beyond Subsistence. Beyond Subsistence Network and focused on the design of provides forestry and agroforestry expertise revegetation projects that reflect the and support to aid organisations operating interests and aspirations of landholders. in developing countries, particularly Africa. The participants visited nurseries, farms Jon and Rowan recognised the immense and native forests and had a chance to Participants and supporters of the first African need for knowledge about tree growing in experience Australia’s unique wildlife and Master TreeGrower course from top left: Africa and made a commitment to try to rural hospitality. At the conclusion of the Andrew Stewart, Niguse Gebremedhin, get the Master TreeGrower course up and course all of the African nationals felt the Sammy Carsan, Joy Tukahirwa, Clinton Tepper, running. The first step was to invite a group course could be adapted to suit the needs, Tafere Desta, Arron Thacher, Jon Lambert, of African extension agents and researchers aspirations and opportunities facing farmers Peter Cunningham, John Ballantyne, Steve to Australia to see how the courses are run and foresters across Africa. Sywulka, Bokang Ntloko and Rowan Reid. and explore how they could help design Beyond Subsistence is now raising funds and promote the course back in their for courses to be run in Uganda and Niger home countries. Jon and Rowan believe that trees and shrubs in 2013. These preliminary courses will have a significant role to play on African With funding and support from a range of involve researchers, extension agents and farms, but they don’t necessarily know what groups including the Crawford Fund, Beyond leading local farmers and will kick start a species will work or the most appropriate Subsistence brought five African nationals series of local courses run by Africans in management options. These are decisions from Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya and Lesotho, their own communities. that farmers will need to make for themselves as they explore the local issues and potential solutions through the course. Like the Australian Master TreeGrower, the course will not be promoting forestry on farms: it will assist farmers to explore opportunities for using trees to improve their livelihoods. In Africa the course has the potential to save the lives of many people who face starvation on a regular basis. For more information on the Master TreeGrower course go to www.agroforestry.net.au the Beyond Subsistence website is at www.beyondsubsistence.org.au or email Jon Lambert at Rowan Reid leading a mensuration exercise for the African Master TreeGrower course at Bunyip. [email protected]

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 17 Sharing landscape-scale conservation stories in

Montana By Jess Gardner

In September I attended a workshop in the Blackfoot From left: Jeff Bectell, Martin Goebel, Jess Gardner and Anne Truslow in a break-out watershed of Montana, USA to share different experiences discussion during the Blackfoot Challenge Workshop. of landscape-scale collaborative conservation projects.

Landholders, community and agency staff movement has provided. This has enabled Carcass composting brings ranchers from America, Canada and Australia met people to have many of the relationships and conservationists together at the workshop to share their successes in place and to gain confidence from A good example is the issue of predator and challenges. We discussed what has established successful projects when they management in the United States and worked, what hasn’t and had discussions begin to think and plan at a landscape scale. Canada. Trying to convince ranchers to around the reasons why. protect bears, wolves and prairie dogs The Blackfoot Challenge faces challenges when their domestic herds are under I represented Habitat 141 and Sarah Lance similar to, but much greater than, Habitat constant attack was causing conflict from the Department of Environment, 141 in working across political boundaries. between conservationists and ranchers. Water and Natural Resources in South The challenge project involves efforts to Australia represented Naturelinks. collaborate effectively across international Seth Wilson of the Blackfoot Challenge It was remarkable to see how similar the borders into Canada and Mexico where introduced a successful carcass composting challenges and issues faced by groups a whole raft of different issues come program to the Blackfoot Watershed tackling landscape-scale projects are across into play. They’ve had a lot of success where he works. After many discussions the world. All groups talked about the in transferring knowledge, ideas and the with local ranchers, they obtained funding importance of building trust between partners benefits of collaboration across the border. to employ a person with a truck to drive around and collect carcasses from the local before launching into serious collaborations. One of the key lessons learned by ranches once a week. This removed the Projects that are led by the community and community groups at the workshop is predator attractants from the ranch. landholders but supported by agencies and when tackling an environmental issue in the government were the most successful. your community, it’s best to focus on the The composting depot is predator fenced. It was acknowledged that there is no set majority issues that everyone agrees on and Bark chips and soil are added and after two model for collaboration and engagement; don’t use all your energy and efforts on the months all that is left of the carcasses is bones however, there are tried and true principles. minor issues of disagreement. Also, science is and high quality compost. Far less cattle and The Australian presentations emphasised definitely important but the real effort should sheep are falling prey to these predators and the strong foundation that the Landcare be put into the art of delivery on the ground. far less bears, wolves and prairie dogs are

Blackfoot Challenge Workshop participants.

18 |  victorian landcare and catchment management A carcass composting facility in the Blackfoot watershed of Montana. being shot when they venture out onto the A no till farming project is demonstrated in Eritrea. private lands. It’s a great example of how when listening to and respecting people’s concerns, really practical solutions can be found. This approach has much in common to the Using Landcare principles Landcare movement in Australia where we regularly get together to swap stories and learn from each other’s efforts. There was overwhelming interest in Landcare from in developing countries Americans and Canadians, but we also have much to learn from them. As a young Landcare officer in South to a new disease resistant variety to Australia in 1989 I worked with local increase yields). However, it is far less Key principles from the Blackfoot farmer, community and school groups effective as problems become more to help bring about lasting changes in complex, where poor farmers have Challenge Community Based our rural environments. The catch- less capacity to change and when Collaborative Conservation phrase was ‘working from the grass support services are extremely limited. Transferability Workshop included: roots up’. This involved engaging Having worked with farmers and all the local stakeholders with their agricultural extension workers on • Give everyone the opportunity to enthusiasm and often innovative come to the table various projects in Eritrea, Niger, Iraq ideas, bringing in new technologies as and Egypt a number of clear messages • You can’t achieve landscape resources were required and being emerge about top down approaches. conservation without landscape prepared to try things out and make These approaches often don’t meet conversation things work together. the majority of farmers’ real needs, • Show people rather than tell them My work now involves teaching which are much broader than • Local implementation teams make it participatory methods in developing receiving good technical information happen. countries. Many African and Middle and they generally do not respect the Eastern countries have traditionally local knowledge of the farmers. Many • Top down support is necessary so used top down approaches to farmers are reluctant to get involved the efforts on the ground are not agricultural development. Expert in these top down programs because let down researchers are told to find the they do not trust the government • Under promise – over deliver technical answers to problems, or workers, particularly when they are to bring in expertise from overseas, under more authoritarian regimes. • Politicians are always hearing which is then demonstrated on local complaints – put forward solutions The growth of Landcare activities research stations or key properties. across the world is testament to the • Listen and build trust wherever you can It is expected that innovative local fact that we have a great deal to offer farmers will see results and adopt the • Use science to target and measure through our own Australian Landcare new technologies, followed, in time, success experience. by the majority of other farmers. Chris McDonough is a farming This model can work well in areas systems consultant from Jess Gardner works for Greening Australia with obvious needs, and where the Rural Solutions SA. For more in the Wimmera. Her trip was funded solutions are affordable, available and information email Chris at by the Blackfoot Challenge, The Nature easy to implement (such as changing [email protected] Conservancy and Greening Australia. For further information contact Jess at [email protected]

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 19 Landcare success in a Tongan village By Bob Edgar

Tonga is a small independent Pacific kingdom damage and disease damage to crops, San Remo and Nuku’alofa (the capital with an economy that relies heavily upon but production was satisfactory with each of Tonga). The Rotary Foundation also international aid and family remittances. A family harvesting $20 per week of produce provided additional funding. problem with many aid projects in Tonga is during the initial six-week harvest. For further information contact Bob Edgar that they don’t satisfy real local needs and fall Unfortunately the harvest was cut short by the at [email protected] into disrepair soon after the donor leaves. arrival of Cyclone Jasmine in mid-February. A Landcare project initiated by the Rotary Flooding was made worse by recently Club of Frankston North in the village of constructed roads and some crops were Popua is proving a local success. The village destroyed. Culverts have since been installed of Popua was established for migrants from to rectify the problem and good yields were the outer islands who came to the Tongan obtained during the recent cool season. capital seeking work. Unfortunately the land Poultry shelters are currently being built. provided by the government is very low lying The shelters protect young chickens from and subject to storm surge and inundation roaming cats and dogs. The project aims during the regular tropical cyclones. to increase village poultry numbers and Landcare was seen to provide an excellent introduce improved strains of poultry to framework for developing vegetable and boost the amount of meat per bird while poultry production in the village. The Tonga retaining the flavour of the village chickens. Community Development Trust acted as Before: A site for a prospective Landcare garden The project budget provided for three the local manager of the project. Several in the Tongan village of Popua in April 2010. shelters but at a review and planning meeting meetings were held with the community to the community decided to build the shelters discuss, plan and review what was needed. themselves rather than buy kits from the The project complemented the community suppliers. Construction is underway and all structure of the village. The community 20 participants will now receive shelters. selected twenty families to take part. Four More families from Popua will be included work groups were established to spread in the next stage of the work and the the crushed coral and topsoil. Each model will be used in other villages. group was provided with a wheelbarrow and hand tools. This process achieved a The Crawford Fund for International high level of community participation and Agriculture funded the development of a ownership of the gardens. village Landcare plan and technical training in soils, plant propagation and protection. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food, Forests Further funding is being sought for tree and Fisheries provided training in compost growing, coastal protection and mangrove After: Tomatoes and carrots are growing well making and crop protection and provided rehabilitation works. by March 2012. The garden uses raised beds seedlings for the gardens. The first with topsoil placed on layers of crushed coral. vegetables were planted in September The project was initiated by the Rotary This method draws on experience in Tuvalu 2011 and grew through the wet season. Club of Frankston North and supported by and Kiribati where rising sea levels present a The wet season is challenging due to rain the Rotary Clubs of Croydon, Phillip Island- major problem.

National Tree Day at Strathallan

National Tree Day was a lot of fun for the children who climbed and played around this ancient yellow gum after the Strathallan Family Landcare Group’s planting project. More than 40 local volunteers attended the Shire of Campaspe sponsored project that saw 800 indigenous understorey shrubs and grasses planted before the adults shared a delicious lunch and the children enjoyed some tree play.

20 |  victorian landcare and catchment management By Bob Edgar Dedication and innovation recognised at Port Phillip and Western Port Landcare Awards

The winners of the 2012 Port Phillip are DSE, Melbourne Water and impressive examples of voluntary and Western Port Landcare Awards Landcare Australia Limited. natural resource management. were announced at a celebration Regional Landcare Co-ordinator “The awards are a great way for us to held at Melbourne Zoo in September. Doug Evans said the awards highlighted share that knowledge amongst Landcare The major sponsors of the awards innovation in Landcare and served as groups – what’s worked in one area could be applied in another – we want to demonstrate what’s possible.”

Port Phillip and Western Port Landcare Award winners, Barbara Setchell from Olinda Landcare Group, Robin Ford representing Deep Creek Landcare Group, Josh Blanchard representing Somerville Secondary College, Anthony Dufty President of Pentland Hills Landcare Group and Stanley Barker from Burke Road Billabong Committee of Management, Friends of Herring Island. Trevor Mills was absent. Report from the National Landcare Conference

By Susi Johnson

More than 550 people attended the National Landcare Conference held in Sydney during Landcare Week.

Social media was one of the conference themes and expert Mia Freedman encouraged Landcarers to become active on Twitter and Facebook. Her advice to hook onto an emotional entry point was referred to many times by other presenters and participants. The gala dinner where the Presenters at the Landcare – The Future in Our Hands session included Melissa George, Megan 2012 National Landcare Award winners Rowlatt, Doug Avery, Ian Thompson, Margie Jenkin and Ben Forsyth. were announced was the first time I ever felt the need to tweet! “…not in managing the lands, the air and Other highlights included the Women A session called ‘Landcare in the lunchbox’ the oceans, but the challenge in managing in the Landscape project in NSW, the looked at the link between healthy soils, ourselves,” Dr Suzuki said. Illawarra Youth Project, Tom Croft’s very healthy animals and healthy food, but also practical social media workshop, and The question and answer session afterwards the need for farmers to make a profit in Cam Nicholson’s presentation which was almost intimate as people expressed how order to be able to take care of their land. demonstrated the power of farmer-led inspired they felt. Conference participants research at Woady Yaloak. A fantastic presentation by David Suzuki Grahamchose Woodbetween and a Faye variety Tuchtan of different in front field of trips the via telepresence opened the second day. damand they workshops. built on their International property Landcareat Bass. The was Plenary sessions and presentations from Participants were spellbound as Suzuki damprominent has ended with their speakers reliance from on mainsNew Zealand,water. the conference are available to download talked about the challenges. Germany, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. from www.daff.gov.au/landcareconference

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 21 Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators

Wimmera groups applying for funds for the first time Week, Biodiversity Month, Spring into Project Platypus held a successful Carbon to conduct local on-ground works. These Nature and National Water Week. in Agriculture event in conjunction with projects have been supported by the new The four campaigns were successfully the network’s 2012 AGM, where a panel Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative combined for the first time this year. of carbon experts answered questions positions and the interest being shown by Events targeting soil health, wildlife, weed from the community on a broad range sporting and recreation clubs such as the identification, direct seeding and wetlands of issues. Project Platypus also used the Mildura 4WD Club and Sunraysia Field created considerable community interest. event to launch a new publication on the and Game is a positive development. Other events included the flood plain history of Landcare in the upper Wimmera. Landcare groups have been busy planning ecology course, Elmore Field Days and This outstanding story of community next year’s projects and applying for the Ausbike Expo in Melbourne. achievement is available on the Project Victorian Government Landcare Grants to Platypus website at www.platypus.org.au/ target important issues. Rabbits and weeds For further information contact Tony Kubeil on 5761 1619. Other Landcare highlights include are a priority as favourable conditions over endangered orchid recovery efforts and an the last couple of seasons have seen both North Central increase in junior Landcare activity. This is increase. Groups are keen to ensure that The Landcare team recently launched a direct result of the enthusiasm and hard they remain under control. the newly designed regional Landcare work of our Landcare Facilitators. Our For further information contact newsletter, now known as North Central local Junior Landcare group in the West Kevin Chaplin on 5051 4344. Chat. The monthly newsletter aims to Wimmera deserves credit for their efforts keep the community up-to-date with all to learn more about brolgas and frogs, Goulburn Broken of the north central Landcare news. The Goulburn Broken Victorian Landcare indigenous planting, and other issues of The Victorian Landcare Grants Program local importance. Grants have now been finalised and released to community groups and networks. is supporting 37 groups to undertake For further information contact projects in the region and assisting one Joel Boyd on 5382 1544. A number of staff and volunteers attended new network to form. Maintenance grants the National Landcare Conference have been provided for 46 groups. West Gippsland in Sydney. Attendees participated in Landcare has been busy with many local workshops, listened to guest speakers and The CMA Landcare team, in conjunction activities. A dinosaur dreaming event was attended the National Landcare Awards with Trust for Nature, hosted a Native Grass held in Korumburra, quoll corridors were and the launch of the new Landcare Identification Short Course in November. planted in Wonyip, a pizza and social media Community Service Announcement. This was the second year of this successful event was held in Briagolong, local birds course involving lectures, hands-on were spotted and discussed in Moe, a dealing The region celebrated 90 days of experience in the lab and a field trip. with landslips event was held in Leongatha biodiversity with more than 75 events For further information contact and an art exhibition celebrating 25 years run during September, October and Jodie Odgers on 5440 1883. of Landcare was held on the Bass Coast. November to incorporate Landcare Landcare network websites are the best way to find a group and get involved with events and activities. Bass Coast is at www.basscoastlandcare.org.au Latrobe Catchment is at www.lcln.org.au Maffra and District Landcare is at westgippsland.landcarevic.net.au/mdln South Gippsland is at ​www.sgln.org.au and Yarram Yarram is at www.yyln.org.au For further information contact Phillip McGarry on 1300 094 262. Mallee The Minister for Environment and Climate Change, the Hon. Ryan Smith, visited the Mallee in September to meet with the Red Cliffs Community Landcare Group and the Yelta Landcare Group and view their projects. The groups were appreciative of the Minister’s visit and of his interest shown in the local issues and priorities that were raised.

Interest in Landcare is slowly increasing in John Drinkwater’s flying duck orchid won first prize in the East Gippsland Landcare Network’s the peri-urban areas with a handful of new Amateur Photographic Competition.

22 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Co-ordinators

Glenelg Hopkins The Wodonga Urban Landcare Network A Landcare Gathering was held at has been formalised and many local Friends Hamilton in October. A number of and Landcare groups have joined. The Landcare groups in the region showcased network is planning a range of community projects that they have conducted over the activities for members and residents of the past twelve months. Presentations were Wodonga Council area. also given by CMA staff on their Redgum- The major fire and flood recovery projects Woodlands, Large Scale River Restoration in the Mudgegonga and neighbouring and Land Health Event projects. areas have finished up with a celebration FarmGate Signs are being allocated to each and booklet about the achievements. The Landcare group who placed an order for Landcare groups involved have achieved them. The signs are to promote group significant restoration works in their areas. membership and will be displayed on the For further information contact Tom Croft entrance to members’ properties on (02) 6024 9107. Funds have been distributed to 22 groups Port Phillip and Westernport under the Victorian Government Landcare The CMA’s Landcare and Community Grants. In addition, 50 groups have Outreach team has recently conducted received administration grants of either a round of Catchment Advisory Round $400 for groups or $600 for networks. Table (CART) sessions in different parts of For further information contact the region. This recent round encouraged Stella Sakkeus’s red gum won the choice Tony Lithgow on 5571 2526. collaboration between Landcare groups award in the East Gippsland Landcare and local agencies on natural resource Network’s Amateur Photographic Competition. Corangamite management projects. More than 120 farmers, service providers and government personnel attended the During the CART sessions each group and East Gippsland inaugural South West Soils Conference in agency shared their planned projects and Many events have been held across Warrnambool. The Caring for our Country activities in a simple but consistent manner, the region including Integrated Pest funded Corangamite and Glenelg-Hopkins located them on a large aerial photograph Management, Soil Health, Regenerative CMAs’ Regional Landcare Facilitators and then invited other organisations to Farming, Farm Track Design and Erosion and land health programs supported the indicate their interest in working with them. Control, Fireweed Identification and Heytesbury and District Landcare Network Collectively the three CARTs involved 54 Prevention, Managing Horses on Small to organise the DPI-facilitated event. people representing 29 different groups and Properties and Grass, Money and Livestock Scientists from Australia and New Zealand networks as well as five local governments, – Understanding how to Manage your conducted lectures on soil physics, agencies and consultants. The feedback Assets. The Environmental Film Festival chemistry and biology and provided an indicates that the CARTs were valued by all was hosted again by Far East Victoria interpretation of local farmers’ soil tests. of the participants. We plan to check if they Landcare (FEVL). have triggered new collaborations. Landcare is gearing up for the next round Over 90 beautiful photographs of local of the Caring for our Country initiative. For further information contact flora were submitted to the East Gippsland On behalf of the Victorian Landcare Forum Doug Evans on 9712 2296. Landcare Network’s Amateur Photographic committee, a huge thank you to all of the Competition. First prize was awarded to supporters and attendees. What a great John Drinkwater, second prize to Sean event! Phillipson and third prize to Fran Bright. Peter Murrell was highly commended and For further information contact the choice award went to Stella Sakkeus. Tracey McRae on 5232 9100. The primary schools category was won by North East Clifton Creek Primary School, with Annie All six Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Rogers taking out second and Jemma Initiative positions in the region are now Davies third. Congratulations to all of the operating with their groups and networks. entrants. The facilitators are training in peer learning Congratulations also to FEVL for winning and Landcare planning, to assist their a Gift Fund Prize, as part of the Keeping groups to prepare for future opportunities. Australia Beautiful – Sustainable Communities The CMA has submitted the Regional Award, in recognition of the innovative ideas Catchment Strategy and is now meeting presented at the Sustainability Expo. Scientists from Australia and New Zealand with Landcare and other partners to shared their knowledge at the inaugural For further information contact develop ways to implement the priorities South West Soils Conference in Warrnambool. Amanda Bartkowski on 5150 3851. together.

spring/summer 2012 issue 56 | 23 In brief

Victorian Landcare functions – operate effectively, engage the The resources are on the Farm Water Program Strategic Plan community, collaborate, do on ground Solutions page of the DPI website at The Victorian Landcare Program works and tell the Landcare story. www.dpi.vic.gov.au/farmwatersolutions Strategic Plan – launched by the Minister or by contacting Benita Kelsall on Through supporting these functions, the for Environment and Climate Change 5624 2218. Victorian Government, in partnership during Landcare Week – will guide the with the Landcare community, will Reader survey Victorian Government’s key program of continue working to achieve the goal of Thank you to our readers who took the support to strengthen Landcare. the Victorian Landcare Program, which time to complete the reader survey in The Victorian Landcare Program, is to have a shared responsibility for a the last issue of the magazine. We are managed by DSE, will provide targeted healthy environment. currently collating all of the responses support to help Landcare groups and and will provide a report on the results For more information go to networks achieve the program’s five key in the next issue. Congratulations to the www.dse.vic.gov.au/land-management/ three readers who won prizes in the land/landcare survey competition. Farm water resources now available Next issue – revegetation The DPI Farm Water Solutions project The next issue of the magazine will has produced a number of resources feature stories on revegetation. From relating to farm water for use by service mass planting events, to managing providers and farmers. The resources complex riparian vegetation, to the very include a farm water balance calculator, latest direct seeding techniques, we are agriculture notes, farmer stories, key interested in hearing the experiences of contacts and technical booklets that are your groups and networks. applicable to any farm situation at any time. Contributions to the next issue should be sent to the editor by 8 February The newest publication is Trading 2013. Water Licences for groundwater and unregulated surface water which has Carrie Tiffany, editor been developed in conjunction with Victorian Landcare & Catchment Southern Rural Water. In addition, there Management magazine is a Farm Water Planning Presenters PO Box 1135, Mitcham North 3132 Resource Kit. The kit is designed as an Phone: 0405 697 548 awareness-level farm water planning Email: [email protected] training session.

The Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine is published by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment and distributed in partnership with the Farm Tree & Landcare Association and the Victorian Catchment Management Council. The magazine aims to raise awareness of Landcare and natural resource management among Victorian farmers, landholders, the Victorian Landcare community and the wider community.

Mailing list enquiries Executive Officer Farm Tree & Landcare Association Phone: 9207 5527 Fax: 9207 5500 Email: [email protected] To receive your copy via email alert Contact Jessica Barnes Phone: 9637 8190 Email: [email protected] Read the magazine online Back issues of the Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine can be found at www.dse.vic.gov.au/victorianlandcaremagazine The print size of the magazine can be enlarged online for easier reading.

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