Landcare In Focus 1 February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4

Green Army to fight rice grass 5 DIVISION of the A part of round 3 of the Green Army has been Covering 130 Green Army Program, 6 assigned to the hectares, the rice Landcare Australia would like beautiful, but to assist Landcare groups in threatened,A Rubicon estuary in 7 grass infestation making an application. northern Tasmania to fight an Landcare Australia’s Green infestation of rice grass. in the Rubicon Army project officer Bruce Covering 130 hectares, the estuary is the Ashley says he is happy to 8 rice grass infestation in the second largest answer any questions people Rubicon estuary is the second may have – whether they are 9 largest in Australia. Introduced in Australia. farmers, members of commu­ in the 1930s to stabilise river nity groups, Landcarers or banks, rice grass has instead apply for Green Army teams to people working or volunteer-­ 10 become a major pest whose be involved in their projects. ing in related areas of Landcare choking growth destroys the Applications for the latest and heritage conservation. habitat of birds, fish, crabs and round of Green Army projects “We are inviting anyone 11 other estuarine plants. can be submitted until March who thinks they might be able It has the potential to 17, 2015. to benefit from the resources invade up to 650 hectares of Landcare Australia, in of a Green Army in their area 12 the Rubicon, one of Australia’s partnership with recruitment to contact us,” Mr Ashley said. most beautiful estuaries, which expert ManpowerGroup, is “We can answer any is also under assault from sea one of the program service questions you might have, and 13 spurge, marram grass, sea providers and responsible for explain how a Green Army wheat grass, broom, gorse and tackling rice grass in the territory. It now occupies estuary conditions and tides, it delivering more than 90 Green team may be able to help you cape ivy. mid-1990s, supported by about a fifth of its possible will be great to see some Army projects allocated since get the most out of the 14 The Green Army team’s task Landcare funding. Other range in Rubicon estuary. rewarding outcomes to reverse the Green Army Program was resources available. We can is to work across mudflats and communities and government Landcare Australia’s Green the spread of this nasty weed.” launched last year. also help you through the along foreshores to man­age agencies were tackling the Army project officer Bruce Landcare Australia is Manpower general manager round 3 application process to 15 weeds and restore the estuary’s problem around Tasmania up Ashley says it’s a great ramping up a host of Green Paul Bridgewater said: ”The become a Green Army project natural ecology, in a project until 2010, when funding for opportunity for the team to Army projects with strong Green Army Program as a sponsor.” 16 sponsored by Latrobe Council. rice grass control ceased. make a difference to the environmental and community whole provides great l People wanting to find out more about the The community of Port Without continual environment of the estuary. benefits this year and is opportunities for Australian Green Army’s round 3 can register their interest Sorell, which sits on the suppression, the weed has “Although it will be a bit of encouraging Landcare groups with Landcare Australia via greenarmy@ youth, and the Australian landcareaustralia.com.au or phone Bruce 17 Rubicon estuary, began reclaimed some of its former a challenge dealing with the to act as project sponsors and environment.” Ashley toll free on 1800 151 105. 18 Reducing heat 19 20 stress in livestock 21 RODUCTION losses along funded through the Australian with climate projections Government’s Filling the Psuggesting a rise in annual Research Gap program, along 22 average temperatures and an with contributions from state increase in the occurrence of government and universities, extreme weather events are private firms and industry bodies. 23 driving two separate research Heat stress occurs in projects into agricultural livestock when animals cannot adaptation and the reduction of effectively control their body 24 heat stress in livestock. heat and the body temperature One project conducted by rises to unsafe levels. It may the Dairy Futures Co-operative be observed when animals project is drawing upon readings) from 118 weather livestock enterprises in the June 2016. 25 Research Centre aims to eat less, become restless and 700,000 DNA marker stations in dairying regions future, should average temp- Filling the Research Gap identify dairy cows that have a production decreases. Other genotypes from 3700 Holstein around Australia. eratures rise and the number of funds nationally coordinated greater tolerance to heat stress symptoms include animals and 1241 Jersey herds to The University of extremely hot days increase. research to deliver practical 26 and will result in a genomic grouping, seeking shade, develop the genomic breeding Melbourne research builds on Established farm options for land managers breeding value being developed panting, slobbering or excessive values for heat tolerance, so previous studies where feed management strategies such to reduce greenhouse gas for tolerance to heat stress. salivation, foam at the mouth, young bull and heifer calves can additives were shown to reduce as the provision of shade, the emissions, build soil carbon 27 The second project open-mouth breathing, lack of be screened for their genetic the effects of heat stress on adequate supply of water and and adapt to changes in climate conducted by the University co-ordination and trembling. potential to cope with heat sheep, but which may be more even cooling systems help while improving productivity of Melbourne will determine The initial consequence stress. The project will draw suitable to intensive livestock reduce heat stress, but further and profit. 28 whether feed additives such of heat stress is reduced feed on production records such systems where administering effective management practices l More information on research projects as dietary betaine, chromium intake and loss of production. as milk yield, protein and fat additives daily to feed rations will likely be required in future under the Filling the Research Gap program and antioxidants can be used In extreme cases it can lead to percentage, and merge it with can be effectively managed. to safeguard animal welfare may be found at the Department of Agriculture to alleviate heat stress in dairy organ tissue damage and death. heat load data (specifically Heat stress may well be and farm productivity. Both website at: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ 29 cows and pigs. Both projects are The Dairy Futures CRC temperature and humidity a growing financial cost to research projects will finalise in climatechange/carbonfarmingfutures/ftrg 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38 1 Landcare In Focus February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3 Landcare briefs International Year of Soil 4 2015 is the International Year of Soil. Soils are often called 5 Almost 300 a neglected resource and a challenge to all is to take a moment and consider how our soils are involved in producing 6 food, fibre and energy. If we keep our soils healthy they can store water and reduce 7 flooding. Soils can also store organic carbon and slow the groups given release of carbon into the 8 atmosphere. They have a role in buffering climate change and rising temperatures. To 9 find out what is happening to celebrate the International Year of Soil in Australia visit the Soil 10 Science Australia website www. up to $20,000 soilscienceaustralia.com.au. Advisory Committee 11 with a strong agricultural focus practices on Kiana Station in The inaugural meeting COMMENT by BARNABY JOYCE of the National Landcare or a focus on delivering the Northern Territory. Advisory Committee was held ast year marked the positive environmental Other projects include the 12 25th anniversary of the in Canberra on Thursday, outcomes. Digging up the Dirt on Soil November 27, 2014. Members launch of Landcare Some of the successful health project, working with of the committee met for 13 nationally in Australia, projects include feral animal six farming families in central the first time following their Land in recognition and control in the Collombatti area Queensland, support for the formal appointment to discuss celebration of this important prickly acacia eradication in their role in implementing 14 milestone, the Australian the Gillat River, Queensland, the Australian Government’s Government announced a We know that and rabbit eradication at Mt National Landcare Program. 25th Anniversary Landcare Rothwell in Victoria. The committee will advise the 15 Grants Program to more than Natural Heritage Ministerial These practical projects, Board, comprising the Minister support the movement and like all the work Landcare its on-the-ground work at a three- quarters of for the Environment, the Hon groups do, will provide Greg Hunt MP, and the Minister 16 local level. farmers identify lasting benefits for our for Agriculture, the Hon Barnaby The 25th Anniversary environment and agricultural Joyce MP, on a range of issues Landcare Grants 2014-15 will with the Landcare related to the National Landcare 17 landscape. Federal Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce. see almost 300 community movement. The agriculture projects Program and are looking to groups and individuals across receiving grants will support help increase recognition of the Landcare ‘brand’ and the value 18 Australia share in $5 million in farmers. the support that local Landcare working in over 6000 landcare project grants. of NSW, working with farmers We know that more than groups give them in looking groups, and so I’d like to thank it brings to all Australians and sectors. More information on the A total of 291 projects will on sustainable management three-quarters of farmers after the land. everyone that has contributed receive funding of between There are more than to the Landcare movement committee’s work plan can be 19 practices in Clarence River identify with the Landcare found on www.nrm.gov.au. $5000 and $20,000 for projects NSW, and improving grazing movement, and acknowledge 100,000 Landcare volunteers over the past 25 years. 20 Submission 21 A year’s a long time in Landcare guidelines By Tessa Jakszewicz, CEO employment and assisting in 22 social inclusion for marginalised Landcare in Focus is proudly ith last year youth and community members supported by the Australian providing challenges through hands-on learning at government’s Department of 23 for many in the community-run nurseries. Agriculture and published by W n THOUGHT LEADERSHIP Landcare and related Landcare Australia Limited. communities, we are happy to and sharing achievements – the For more information or 24 be kicking off 2015 with a biennial state and territory to submit an article, email number of funding Landcare Awards are on enquiries@landcareaustralia. opportunities and resources for again this year. Last year at com.au. Please note that 25 the popular Junior Landcare the National Awards, South due to space restrictions we program, as well as taking a Australian finalist in the cannot guarantee that all detailed look at this publication sustainable farming category, submissions will be included. – Landcare in Focus – with a Mallee Sustainable Farming, All submissions must adhere 26 reader’s survey. won the People’s Choice award. to the following guidelines and This month we see the Check out the case studies on the deadlines below and must return of some of our regular our website and tell us about include: 27 rounds for 2015 including your successes. n One article of no more than Lion Dairy grants and Coles In the past financial 300-600 words saved as a Junior Landcare garden year, Landcare Australia has Microsoft Word document or 28 grants. Looking beyond the distributed more than $2m a PDF. garden, we have launched the for these and about 500 other n No more than two or three first-ever Landcare subject in projects – including significant high resolution (must be at least 29 the national curriculum. Details programs with generous 1MB in size) images that clearly and full lessons are available for bequest money and in large part illustrate the accompanying download via juniorlandcare. funded through the business article. 30 com.au/curriculumresources. community. n Full captions for each Last year provided many Landcare Australia’s full attached image that explain challenges, and here at report will be available from our who is in the photos and/ 31 Landcare Australia we have website. or what they illustrate. Also, overhauled our reporting with a Also just a reminder that please ensure that we have new-look 2014 Annual Report, Round 3 of the Green Army is permission from any people now open. 32 which attempts to look at all featured in the photos to use aspects of how we work. difference in terms of In the past maintained during a fun day Interested groups are these photos in Landcare in In addition to some key efficiency and profitability. out, reinvigorating areas only encouraged to register their Focus. achievements highlighted in the n BUSHFIRE RELIEF: Just financial year, we accessible by boat. interest with us. n Contact information for more 33 previous issue of Landcare in one example is the Wildhaven Otherwise known as Workers See pages 1 and 3 of this information if required. Focus, we’d like to share some Wildlife Shelter in Melbourne, have distributed on Water, this project is supplement for information on of the wonderful stories at a which has attracted money co-ordinated by Greater the Green Army. The next issue will have a 34 local level and beyond that we from our Holden partnership, more than $2m, Sydney Local Land Services. We hope you like the focus on Water – keep a have been a part of: helping it rescue and Our corporate volunteers new-look Landcare in Focus. lookout for themes for future n INNOVATIVE rehabilitate animals and rebuild funding some 500 donate their time, with funding Please take a few minutes issues. 35 AGRICULTURE: From their native habitat. projects. generated being directed back to complete our reader survey building resilience generally to n BEACHCARE: There’s a to the local Landcare group (advertisement on previous Dates for 2015 page) – to help us help you trialling mulch in wine-growing whole community of landcarers for ongoing maintenance and Publication Deadline 36 regions to improve soil fertility who are caring for our coasts Naturals for a broad base of support. with a publication that is not as well as water conservation and waterways. works including cleaning up n VILLAGE NURSERY only interesting but also assists May 21 April 16 while suppressing weed One such group from Australia’s busiest beach. PROGRAM is an initiative you in making a significant WATER THEME 37 growth, we have channelled Queensland’s Gold Coast has n FLOATING LANDCARE started in 2013 supported by difference in your Landcaring. millions of dollars into Landcare supplemented a robust program is a multi-stakeholder program Westpac, which will provide You could also win one of August 20 July 16 farming programs over the supported by dedicated locals that enables pockets of Sydney’s $200,000 a year to selected five grants of $500 towards 38 years that make a significant with money from Neutrogena picturesque Pittwater to be projects, creating pathways to your Landcare work. November 19 October 15 Landcare In Focus 1 February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4

Corridor opens up to success 5

I think that every 6 place you’re involved with, 7 you should aim to leave it in better 8 shape than when you got it. 9

Durness owner David Fuller last year. momentum for planning to 10 connect the internationally HE award-winning owned AgrowPlow. recognised Ramsar wetlands of Durness-Borland Mr Fuller describes himself Myall Lakes with the 11 Landcare Corridor as “half a greenie”. Gondwana rainforests of the project is entering the “I think that every place Barrington Tops. Tmonitoring and maintenance 12 you’re involved with, you It has provided the phase, leaving a legacy that should aim to leave it in better inspiration for council to demonstrates how the needs of shape than when you got it,” he develop its broader strategic 13 farming, environment and said. Durness manager Troy Wilton with the map linking the nature corridors. ecosystem services and Tops to regional planning can be The corridor project was Lakes corridor initiative. jointly met by a single project. designed to reconnect off the landscape, meaning periods to reduce fuel for Wildlife is beginning to The Durness project has 14 In a matter of years, the fragmented pieces of remnant more effective rainfall stays on bushfires and assist with weed move freely through the started things rolling by Durness project planted more vegetation on Durness in ways the farm and water arrives management. corridors, although Mr Fuller developing functional than 55,000 native trees, to that improved conservation more slowly in the creek. It is the sort of country mourns the fact that he has still connectivity along 52km, and 15 create biodiversity corridors, not just on the property, but “Since we’ve planted the where a month without rain is only seen two koalas in the from sea level to 650m in designed to connect large areas extended beyond the grazing trees, we’ve only had one flood drought, and a month with rain time he has owned the altitude. of remnant native habitat and areas out to have broader event,” Durness manager Troy means half the place is property. Council, with a 16 improve water quality in Kore positive effects on the Wilton said. inaccessible. The better The project was made contribution from the LLS, Kore Creek, flowing into Port landscape. Mr Fuller said there had drainage in the corridors is possible through a bequest by contributed a further Stephens, an important fishing The loss of some formerly been no loss of productivity on helping with accessibility in businessman Raymond $2.3 million to secure a 125ha 17 and recreational area. cleared land to corridors has the property, despite the loss wet times, and tree cover is Borland, managed by Landcare conservation core adjacent to The project also assisted been offset by paddock of land, because the fencing moderating heat and cold Australia. The bequest formed the project area – a remarkable with increased productivity on redesign, introducing a and off-stream watering had extremes in dry times. the bulk of the costs for step for a regional council. 18 Durness, the property where rotational grazing regime and enabled more strategic grazing Creek crossings have been on-ground works, which also Watch the Durness-Borland the works were undertaken. off-stream stock-watering of stock. stabilised with engineered included in-kind and financial Landcare Corridor video with A beef cattle property, the systems. When the trees have works so that stock traffic does contributions from the owner David Fuller and 19 4000-hectare Durness, had The biodiversity corridors matured – the canopy of the not contribute to erosion. landholder, Landcare Australia, manager Troy Wilton on the been extensively cleared in the act as natural boundaries and oldest plantings now stand at Creek erosion has been Great Lakes Council and Landcare Education YouTube 20 1950s. It was bought 12 years shelter belts for the grazing five to six metres high – cattle halted, even though the works Hunter Local Land Services. page at www.youtube.com/ ago by David Fuller, a farmer- program, and appear to have will also be able to strategically have been tested by substantial For Great Lakes Council, watch?v=EIVnKTp businessman who until recently also slowed the flow of water graze the corridors for short rain since the project began. the project provided the initial KgCw. 21

22

Green Army recruiting 23 pplications are now Opportunities are available open for round 3 of the Applications for indigenous participants and 24 AGreen Army Programme, communities to participate in and community groups across are now open the program. the country are encouraged to The Green Army is capable apply. for round 3 of of supporting participants and 25 The federal government projects in remote communities, is calling for community-led the Green Army and providing targeted training projects that support practical, and ways to connect indigenous 26 grassroots environment Programme. Australians with their country, and conservation activities identity and culture. The throughout Australia. project guidelines and the 27 Indigenous groups, remote Australia on public land, application form are available community organisations, indigenous-held land or private online for organisations to begin environmental groups and local land. planning new projects. 28 councils can apply to host a Projects must benefit the l Visit www.environment.gov.au/green-army Green Army project. environment or national or Projects must run for 20 to indigenous heritage, and offer RIGHT: Members of the Green Army project 29 26 weeks and can take place participants valuable practical team at Queanbeyan, NSW. across urban, regional and experience. – Picture: Department of the Environment. 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38 1 Landcare In Focus February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4

5 Scorched

6 7 bush island 8

9 10 rescued 11 o re-establish the areas along the reserve’s creek fires was achieved over difficult the bushland’s recovery has 12 ecological integrity of a lines. Restoration needed an terrain. No-one could produced valuable information bushland reserve after expert touch, and that help was However, Ms Pedler – an on mammals, reptiles, frogs, fire without an invasion found thanks to four years of environmental consultant who foresee that birds, invertebrates, plants and Tof exotic plants such as 13 funding allocated to the has also sat on the state’s ... the island fungi, which have been logged blackberry is no small project by Holden through Landcare committee – said the with the South Australian challenge, but one successfully Landcare Australia. recovery work went beyond of bushland Museum. 14 met by South Australia’s The trust’s natural heritage the physical. would be sitting The National Trust of National Trust in the 26- officer Janet Pedler said the When Engelbrook was South Australia (NTSA) is hectare Engelbrook reserve. funding allowed for the hire of made a reserve, no-one could amid a tide of capitalising on this sense of 15 Set in the hills near “really great contractors” who foresee that by the early 21st renewal through ongoing Adelaide, Engelbrook was successfully re-established a century, the island of bushland urbanisation. reports in the press and via gifted to the National Trust in native shrub layer without would be sitting amid a tide of social media, with the aim of 16 the late 1960s. touching off a colonisation of urbanisation. cameras and Anabat recorders, attracting further interest from Fires in 2007 and 2009, one blackberry, gorse or broom, an Engaging the community technology which helps give volunteers and the public. started by a slasher and the all-too-likely scenario after the around Engelbrook has been a life to the statistical fauna A volunteer-led group has 17 other by a lost walker soil of the reserve had been key part of the National Trust’s records. started development of a range signalling for help, badly bared by fire. strategy for minimising the That has led directly to the of NTSA interpretive trail apps 18 damaged Engelbrook’s Bared slopes were stablised, scope for future disaster. recruitment of new young for smartphones, and the app heritage, much of which and significant reduction of The funding helped with volunteers, Ms Pedler said. for Engelbrook Reserve is resides in perched bog and fern fuel that might carry future the purchase of fauna The surveys needed to track first on the list. 19 LANDCARE BRIEFS 20 Emissions Reduction Fund You may be familiar with Surveys find what’s hot and what’s not 21 the Australian Government’s Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI), which enabled farmers and land 22 managers to generate carbon credits through a range of approved activities that reduced greenhouse gas emissions or 23 sequestered carbon in soil and vegetation. But did you know that the CFI has transitioned 24 into the Emissions Reduction Fund? The fund builds on the CFI, providing ongoing 25 opportunities for farmers and land managers to participate in emission reduction projects, and earn carbon credits, 26 through an even wider range of eligible activities. There are some important 27 changes to the rules and requirements for participating in the Emissions Reduction 28 Fund compared with the CFI. For more information on the new rules and how you 29 could get involved, visit www. environment.gov.au/emissions- CSIRO keynote speaker and megatrends expert Dr Stefan Hajkowicz was identified as a highlight by most respondents. reduction-fund and www. 30 cleanenergyregulator.gov.au/ eflecting on the past Landcare Conference. Emissions-Reduction-Fund/. and looking to the future ‘Looking at megatrends’ In keeping with Farm concessional loans Rproved to be the most by CSIRO Futures Leader Landcare history, rewarding activities for the 664 Dr Stefan Hajkowicz was the The Australian government has 31 delegates who attended the most popular session of the concessional loans available for delegates found farmers in need of assistance. 2014 National Landcare conference, earning a 93pc the ‘community’ 32 The Drought Concessional Conference, according to approval rating from delegates, Loans Scheme helps farm feedback collected by Landcare closely followed by the First stream of sessions businesses recover from and Australia. 25 years of Landcare panel, prepare for drought, while farm The feedback, now featuring Phillip Toyne and most satisfying. 33 finance concessional loans help published in an extensive Andrew Campbell. farm businesses, irrespective of analysis of how the conference Overall, 88pc of those their reason for hardship. The and National Landcare Awards who responded to the 34 Drought Recovery Concessional were received, also found post-conference survey were with the range or choice Speaker Matt Moran has the floor. Loans Scheme will help farm that in keeping with Landcare satisfied or very satisfied with (80pc in 2012), and 90pc businesses in Queensland and history, delegates found the the event, and 90pc expressed satisfied with the relevance respondents were satisfied or criticism. 35 NSW recover from drought ‘community’ stream of sessions satisfaction with the networking (70pc in 2012). In total, 175 very satisfied with the venue Suggestions placed by and (if relevant) the impacts of most satisfying. opportunities on offer. abstracts were submitted to the in Melbourne’s Southbank delegates via post-it notes on the mid-2011 disruption to live Asked about their reception The 13 field trips run conference (an increase of 23pc precinct, a significant number of the ‘ideas wall’ were recorded in 36 cattle exports to Indonesia. of the conference, 94 per cent on the first day of the on 2012), and 56 were selected people found it unsuitable for a Landcare Australia’s evalution The loan types available said they would apply lessons conference attracted 331 as presentations for the 18 Landcare conference. report, which is uploaded at and loan settings differ in from the conference in their delegates, with 85pc of those sessions in five streams. Although the cost of landcareaustralia.com.au, 37 each jurisdiction. For more Landcare work, 90pc got an expressing satisfaction with the The main criticisms of the attending the conference including ideas to offer a information, including how to enthusiasm boost from the organisation of the trips at the conference were overpricing remained the same as in 2012, range of sustainable foods in apply, visit agriculture.gov.au/ Landcare Awards, and 89pc biennial event (compared with and venue. as with the earlier conference, 2016, as well as more fruit and assistance. 38 felt the same about the 60pc in 2012), 86pc satisfied While nearly two-thirds of pricing was a source of vegetarian options. Landcare In Focus 1 February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

ixteen schools and to a kitchen garden; Redlynch State College Parent 3 community groups from and Citizens Association, $1000 worth of Philmac Sacross Australia will be a products to install a reticulation system on the little greener, less thirsty and school oval. 4 growing a lot more fresh local Thirsty for NSW: Orange East Public School, $3500 to help produce this year after a water a renovated playground; Parkes Skate Park national initiative to support and Youth Recreational Group, $1500 to supply 5 water-related projects. drinking water; Canowindra Public School Parents and Citizens Association, $1000 worth of Philmac The Philmac Project was products to improve the school’s vegetable garden; established by Australian water grants Dirnaseer Memorial Hall and Community Church, a 6 manufacturer Philmac, to Bluey Award of $500 worth of Philmac products to provide cash grants of up quality and scope of applica­ reduce water use and maximise install a watering system. to $5000 to community tions received, particularly from water efficiency, and they SA: Curramulka Community Club, $5000 to 7 organisations in rural and smaller and more isolated rural will also save many hours of install an automated irrigation system at the oval; regional Australia. communities. “The Philmac labour for over-stretched Nuriootpa Primary School, $1000 worth of Philmac Now in its third round, the Project is obviously meeting volunteers. Working with local products to improve the school gardens; Waikerie popular scheme received a a considerable need for cash organisations to make these Men’s Shed, a Bluey Award of $500 in Philmac 8 record number of applications to help bring to life often differences is exactly what we products to help supply rainwater to its gardens before entries closed in small-scale projects that will set out to do and more when we and toilets. December, with more than 100 make a big difference to local established the Philmac Project. Victoria/Tasmania: Upper Plenty Primary School, 9 organisations submitting ideas communities and at the same “It is our way of saying $5000 to establish an aquaponics system and to save water and improve water time benefit the environment. thank you to regional and rural Philmac managing director Mark Nykiel. expand the garden program; Okines Community quality in their communities. “The latest round of grants communities that have made House, Dodges Ferry, $1000 worth of Philmac 10 A judging panel selected will enable more people to it possible for us to continue tough times.” In the Bluey The Philmac Project will also products for their community garden; Nhill 12 recipients from short-lists learn how to grow fresh fruit manufacturing in this country. Award, the aim was to broaden provide free Philmac products Agricultural and Pastoral Society and the Hindmarsh Equestrian Club, a special Bluey Award of $1500 determined by public voting. and vegetables, create greener Today Philmac is a global leader opportunities for groups that to eight projects this year. 11 might be considered ‘underdogs’ worth of Philmac products to help upgrade and The panel also awarded four spaces for children to play in the design and manufacture 2015 recipients extend watering systems at the Nhill showground. compared organisations that special grants for 2015 as part in, and safer playing surfaces of specialist fittings and valves Queensland: Whitsunday Catchment Landcare WA: Paraburdoo Primary School, $5000 to install of a new Bluey Award. for local sporting clubs, and for transferring, controlling and could draw on more supporters Community Nursery, Proserpine, a Bluey Award of a reticulation system on the school oval; Condingup 12 Announcing the recipients, provide clean drinking water for applying water, and that would in the voting round. The $3000 to install a new irrigation system, as well as Primary School Parents and Citizens Association, Philmac managing director people and livestock. not have been possible without award is named after Philmac’s Millen Farm at Samford for the same amount to set $1000 worth of Philmac products to help install Mark Nykiel said he was “These projects will help ongoing support from rural and brand ambassador, Bluey, an up an irrigation system; Kin Kin School, $2000 to a reticulated watering system in a new native and impressed by the number, communities capture rainwater, regional Australia, even through Australian Blue Heeler. install a new rainwater tank and divert grey water edible garden area. 13

14

15 Restoration teaches lessons 16 ne of the nation’s RIGHT: Glenelg largest, longest and Hopkins CMA senior This ambitious 17 most successful field services officer program earned river-restoration Rod Addinsall Oprojects will this year share its with landholders the project 18 Julie and Peter hard-earned knowledge with Crowle during the the Australian other waterway projects. Waterway Action 19 The Glenelg River Planning process at Riverprize in Restoration Project has run Red Cap Creek. over 14 years, helping 2013. 20 landholders erect 1725km of riparian fencing (another 68km will go up in 2015), and significant being through the 21 working on revegetation, weed CMA’s Partnership Project – a control, carp management, LEFT: Landholder grants program that covers the erosion control, removal of fish Sam Roberts at costs of materials – as well as 22 barriers and environmental- his project site in Landcare and River Tender. flow releases. the upper Glenelg Social and economic factors This ambitious work catchment. are important in fencing and 23 program earned the project the revegetation activities: Australian Riverprize in 2013. landholders have access to The prize provided funding funding for alternative stock- 24 Fencing to prevent stock access to waterways allows riparian and from the federal government, in-stream vegetation to regenerate along the Glenelg River. watering infrastructure and which has been used to support other costs such as stock the Glenelg-Hopkins provided with ‘twinning’ ‘waterway master class’), where project to take some key used as a model for societal crossings to minimise impact 25 Catchment Management funding from the International key learnings of some of learnings back to Japan. There engagement and participation on farm productivity. Authority, local agencies and RiverFoundation to share their Australia’s best waterway- is also interest in the project in agricultural communities Landholders have reported 26 communities nominating the knowledge and experience by management projects will be from Landcare in Uganda. worldwide. improved stock management, a Glenelg Estuary and adjoining mentoring other organisations presented and discussed. In September 2014, a The community’s vision is reduction in stock losses, coastal wetlands to the Ramsar to restore their rivers. The prize stimulated global Glenelg Hopkins CMA for the Glenelg River to be improved water quality for 27 Convention on Wetlands of The CMA’s project will be interest in the Glenelg project, representative spoke in San healthy and more resilient to stock, and a reduction in International Importance. advertised next month, and with inquiries coming from Francisco at the International drought and flooding, and able OH&S risk to farm employees. If successful, the listing will will provide a forum for other across Australia, Asia and Water Association’s Specialist to support social, economic Despite all the hard work 28 raise the profile of this national resource management Europe. Conference on Watershed and and environmental values. and success, more remains to important site and provide groups to connect and There has been significant River Basin Management, Government funding has be done. Restoration of a river greater security for long-term establish multiple twinning interest from Landcare explaining how the planning been provided to 659 system can take generations 29 management. projects. The program will International, with Landcare process for the Glenelg River landholders through various and requires ongoing The Riverprize winners are include a workshop (a Japan recently visiting the Restoration Project could be incentive programs, the most maintenance. 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

X29431534 38 1 Landcare In Focus February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

LEFT: Anne l’Ons, 3 co-ordinator of the Mt Taylor Park Care Group 4 in the ACT, shows the younger generation how to 5 Adding to remove weeds.

6 7 the honour 8

9 10 roll heroes 11 hroughout much annual Chippendale of last year a Landcare Wildflower walk on Black 12 Hero Honour Roll was Mountain for the past 11 years, growing online, with an event now running in the TLandcare veterans being chairman of the VLC, Leon Her great strength is her positions in numerous industry He leads by example, not ACT for more than 40 years. 13 nominated for at least 25 years’ Jean has meticulously was a catalyst in the birth of ability to share her botanical and community organisations asking others to do more than service as part of the silver recorded conservation efforts the National Landcare knowledge and gently nurture prior to joining the Upper he’ll do himself. anniversary celebrations of the in the ACT region through Network. the learning of others within Torrens Land Management Nigel has represented the 14 movement – with numerous thousands of photographs. the group, particularly youxng Project (UTLMP) in 1998 as award-winning western additions in recent weeks and Her images and stories are Roger Nield people. project officer. Arnhem Land fire abatement months showcasing the invaluable records and a Roger Nield’s landcaring Gerry was appointed to the project at an international 15 dedication and variety of fabulous resource for other began on his family farm, at Ashley Sewell SA Soil Conservation Council wildfire conference in South impressive works undertaken land managers. Mangalo, in the hills 20km Ashley Sewell attended the in 1993 and participated on Africa, shared fire management by people dedicated to the Her most recent endeavour north of Cleve on South founding meeting for Barung many state and national knowledge with village chiefs 16 cause. is the formation of a Parkcare Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. Landcare in Queensland in committees. He is a member of in Namibia and spoken at The honour roll, run with Group for Black Mountain. More than 40 years, he has April 1989 and subsequently the Landcare Australia conferences across Australia funding from the Australian Her contributions are a served on 19 committees served on the management Advisory Council. about indigenous land 17 government’s Department of perfect example of bringing dealing with soil protection committee for a decade as Throughout his career management. Agriculture, has sought to her extensive local knowledge and better farm management. Department of Primary Gerry has been involved in the He inspires all those who co-ordination of hands-on work with him. 18 promote, acknowledge and and volunteering experience He helped establish the Industries/DNR adviser. celebrate the contributions of together for the new group and Campoona-Mangalo Soil In this capacity, Ashley activities to address on-farm those who have been involved its members’ benefit. Conservation Project in 1984, created great interest in farm natural resource management 19 in Landcare for 25 years or and chaired the Eastern Eyre forestry as an economically issues by working with more. Peninsula Landcare viable alternative land use for individual landholders and Whether they are farmers, Management Committee. the Sunshine Coast hinterland. other stakeholders. 20 members of a local group, still Roger was on the state He founded Maleny’s ‘From In his 16-year role with involved as an individual committee that organised the Chainsaw to Fine Furniture’ UTLMP, he initially worked Landcarer or have hung up annual Landcare conferences. Wood Expo – Barung’s main with 25 local farmers and 21 their weeding gloves, Landcare The Nield family’s educational and fundraising stakeholders on a pilot project wants to acknowledge them. contributions have been event. It will run for the 19th over an area of 3500 hectares, Nominations for the honour acknowledged with a state Ibis time in 2015. which expanded to 20,000 22 roll are now closed but you can Award in 1994, state Roundup Ashley’s passion was to hectares working with 35 relive some of the quarter- Landcare Primary Producers promote sustainable use of landholders each year. century events, information Award in 1995, and in 2004 native timbers by showcasing Recently he led the renewal 23 and celebrations via Roger took out the acclaimed the work of local wood of the Landcare Association of landcarelife.com/25years. National Landcare Award, artisans. SA (LASA), with the aim of Leon Trembath has been active in various reinvigorating Landcare in SA, Some recent additions to Individual Landcarer category. The first expo in 1996 Michael Mulvaney of the ACT’s Red Hill Landcare groups in Victoria. 24 the honour roll: attracted 3000 visitors. It now and is currently the chairman Regenerators Park Care group. Anne l’Ons attracts more than 10,000 of the association. Under his leadership, LASA 25 Jean Geue Leon Trembath Anne l’Ons is the visitors each year and has become a major event in the convened the 2013 SA Michael Mulvaney As an advocate of Leon Trembath has been co-ordinator of the Mt Taylor Landcare Conference. conservation and Landcare in active at every level of Park Care Group in the ACT, woodworking calendar. Michael Mulvaney has led More than $300,000 has Gerry continues to play a the efforts of the Red Hill 26 the ACT, Jean Geue has Landcare as a member and a and has guided the group since leadership role in the Landcare waged numerous campaigns in leader concerned with its formation in August 1989. been raised for Barung Regenerators Park Care group Landcare’s environmental movement at a state and for the past 25 years. defence of biodiversity, habitat conservation, indigenous Under Anne’s leadership national level. 27 preservation and landscapes in species and landscape and her guiding philosophy of projects, thanks to Ashley’s He has been instrumental innovative concept. the region. restoration. “remove the weeds and let Nigel Gellar getting the local community Jean has been convener of He leads by example nature return”, the group has He is still involved in the interested in the natural 28 the Friends of Aranda Bushland through his revegetation work removed more than 50,000 event in an advisory capacity, Nigel Gellar has been ecosystems of Red Hill, and he for two terms, organising on his 34-hectare Gippsland woody weeds and hundreds of and most recently led his senior ranger co-ordinator for leads one of the most active regular weed removal and land bush property. thousands of annual weeds – ‘Know Your Timber Trees’ Warddeken Land Management and productive park care 29 management working parties Along with his and the natives have indeed Tour from the 2014 Expo. for 11 years. He is a groups in the ACT. with volunteers. contributions to the Madalya returned. Rembarrnga man from Central The group has invested One result of her Landcare group since 1997, The spectacular birdlife and Arnhem Land. many thousands of hours into 30 enthusiasm was the Leon served as chairman of the wildflowers on Mt Taylor Nigel worked as a research the restoration of Red Hill’s construction of a eucalypt Yarram Yarram Landcare provide the living legacy of assistant with CSIRO in the diverse grassy woodland 31 interpretive walk, including Network from 2005 until 2010 Anne’s voluntary park care 1970s (looking at impacts of habitat, much of it endangered signage and brochures, and was a member as well as work over 25 years in feral rats and buffalo damage yellow box and Blakely’s red introducing the public to the chairman of GippsLandcare, a partnership with 300-plus on freshwater systems) and a gum woodland. 32 reserve. consortium of the five local volunteers and 60 park rangers. ranger for Kakadu National Of particular note has been She has also been Landcare networks in the After 100 years of grazing Park (early fire management the group’s stewardship of Red responsible for organising the Gippsland region. by sheep, the mountain now projects) before coming to Hill’s nationally endangered 33 Through Leon’s vision, the boasts healthy stands of Kabulwarnamyo to mentor the button wrinklewort habitat. Jack and Albert River Allocasuraina verticillata, Exocarpos Warddeken rangers. Michael continues to be a Restoration Project was cupressiformis, the rare endemic He brings a depth of very active member of the 34 created. He was instrumental Acacia penninervis, natural Gerry Butler has worked with Landcare knowledge, indigenous and group and an inspiration to in creating the partnership recruitment of eucalypt sp., South Australia for 25 years. Western, to his position as many within the ACT with the Norman Wettenhall Brachychiton populneus and native senior ranger co-ordinator and Landcare network. 35 Foundation for this nationally grasses such as Cymbopogon has played an enormously His ability to communicate recognised program. refractus. Gerry Butler valuable role in landcare in complex ecological concepts He drove the establishment Anne has developed an Gerry Butler has made a Arnhem Land, in particular fire to a variety of audiences has 36 of the Victorian Landcare intimate knowledge of the 25-year contribution to driving management programs. inspired many young people Council (VLC) in 2008, to mountain’s ecology. She Landcare initiatives and He is passionate about to get out and enjoy the 37 present the interests of observes the responses of building the capacity of the “showing young fellas how to Canberra bushland, and many community Landcare to plants and animals across the community to manage natural do it properly” and has been an others to pursue a career in Jean Geue, a dedicated Landcare operator various levels of government. seasons, particularly the effects resources in South Australia. exemplary mentor to dozens of land management and 38 in the ACT. In his role as inaugural of an increasingly dry climate. Gerry held volunteer young rangers. conservation. Landcare In Focus 1 February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4

Bringing high-flyers 5

6 back down to earth 7 8

SSOCIATING with Landcare provides 9 corporations with more than just a warm, fuzzyA feeling, in the experience 10 of Graham Jennings. Robin Craig of the Jaramas Foundation and her sons visit one of their projects being The former head of funded this year in NSW. Westpac Agribusiness and a 11 current Landcare Australia board member says that 12 corporate social responsibility Advancing core programs that encourage staff to volunteer as hands-on 13 contributors to Landcare projects help make high-flying environment goals thinking about the environ­ 14 ment more down to earth. HANKS to the founders understand their land “In my experience with of a civil-engineering capability, the level at which Westpac, there was a lot of 15 Tcompany, 17 Landcare they can operate within that value in working with Landcare projects throughout NSW capability, and how to match and helping our people have had a combined injection nutrient inputs to their desired 16 of $400,000 since 2012 to level of output. connect to the idea of caring ABOVE: Landcare Australia board member advance their goals. The Holbrook project for land and water,” he said. Graham Jennings volunteers at the Middle After they formed has been so successful that it “The corporation is Head corporate challenge in 2014. engineering company received funding to continue committed and giving to a 17 Abergeldie, Michael Boyle this financial year, with worthwhile cause; there is a LEFT: A Westpac employee enjoys the view and Robin Craig decided an additional 58 farmers benefit to the staff because to donate a portion of the participating in co-ordinated at a corporate environmental volunteering 18 they can see real-life examples day reinvigorating Sydney’s Middle Head. profits to issues demanding soil testing. Since 2013, a of how the corporation is attention, such as refugees, total of 125 farmers have environmental sustainability participated in co-ordinated involved; and they can connect 19 and education. soil testing after being trained right down to being part of Landcare is a In 2012 the couple’s in soil-sampling methods. programs themselves. Jaramas Foundation, the Samples from 902 sites “And obviously the vehicle for bringing 20 vehicle through which they have been analysed and Landcare brand is very well councils in bringing together been very clear on what its governments, conduct their philanthropic returned to farmers, to guide recognised, and there is a volunteers and corporate teams purpose is. It needs to continue work, established a partnership their fertiliser application brand benefit to the corporate.” to clean up areas of the with that purpose – but having communities and 21 with Landcare Australia. decisions over coming years. The result: Six projects The associations extend Hawkesbury estuary only said that, it needs to prioritise Based out of Condobolin, beyond the Landcare corporates funded in 2012, four projects Central West Farming Systems accessible by boat. where it can best make a 22 funded in 2013 and seven (CWFS) ran a project that community into government. Landcare Australia has difference.” together. projects funded in 2014. started in 2013, ‘Soil Nutrient “You get to be involved helped bring $7000 of Junior Landcare, which The projects had an and Carbon Investigations with things that the ministers corporate sponsorship to the instils an ethic of caring for the 23 emphasis on sustainable for Better Management in are also involved in, so you get program, which is otherwise land in schoolchildren, is a Landcare finds a way “to drill in farming, such as Holbrook Drier Cropping Zones’, to understand what they are referred to as Workers on self-evident priority, Mr and add value”. Landcare Network’s ‘Use it or to help develop farmer trying to do. Landcare is a Water. The 33 Floating Jennings says. “It’s about prioritisation of Lose it – Targeted Nutrient confidence through capacity 24 Management’. vehicle for bringing Landcare events have removed “That really is the future. where we can make a differ­ building to adopt sustainable governments, communities and ence, so that Landcare builds “Holbrook Landcare farming practices and manage 3.5 tonnes of marine litter, “Sustainable agriculture has Network had found that profitability and risk. corporates together.” regenerated 2.5 hectares of developed a lot over the past programs around those areas 25 farmers were not matching The funding helped CWFS An example: Floating native bushland, and engaged decade, right down into soil that make it easy for people their nutrient inputs to buy a soil corer to collect deep Landcare, a Landcare 200 volunteers who science and farming and corporates to connect.” landscape capability and soil samples more accurately adventure conservation contributed the equivalent of techniques. Landcare needs to While there is scope for 26 farm-system usage, at a cost to and efficiently. CWFS ran a program that took out the $66,000 of labour. be engaged with that.” clarifying Landcare’s identity, productivity, profitability and range of successful projects Environmental Protection To sustain and strengthen “And Landcare still has an Mr Jennings thinks the the environment. across the central west and movement could also be the 27 “This could be greatly Award at the 2014 Keep these mutually beneficial important role in binding the had previously relied on a Australia Beautiful NSW Clean community groups and vehicle for some “thought improved by nutrients based borrowed hydraulic soil- associations, Mr Jennings says Beaches Awards. com­mu­nity effort, where it all leadership” on landscape on soil sampling and analyses.” sampling machine. They found that Landcare needs to 28 The project goal: Use the corer extremely valuable Floating Landcare involves continually work on defining started.” management on a continental proven methods to support for monitoring soil-health Greater Sydney Local Land its priorities in order to provide Within these areas – and scale. farmers to change their parameters around changes Services, Landcare Australia, a clear sense of value to those any others that the movement “Wouldn’t it be fantastic if fertiliser practices. Farmers in water-use efficiency and National Parks and Wildlife who would be benefactors. regards as core to its identity – Australia had a landscape- 29 are being helped to better organic carbon on farms. Service, and a number of local “Landcare Australia has Mr Jennings suggests that management plan?” 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38 1 Landcare In Focus February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4 Touchy,

5 Green feely soil 6 test tells 7 patch a the story 8 Touch, smell, look are time-honoured, simple techniques for assessing 9 soil properties, but methods that Yarra Valley Equestrian Landcare Group think are 10 worth teaching again. plus for The group’s recent Save Kellyville Public students enjoy the donated grass as part of the school program’s successful application for a Turf Australia Perfect Pitch of with Soils day was designed 11 Green grant. to show people how simple natural environment. excavation and provided a management and observation 12 The most recent initiative By greening up backhoe for the job; Michael systems can improve soil with the representative body Muscat at Green Life Turf who which, in turn, improves schools and play pasture, reduces the need for for the turf industry, inspired supplied the turf; Baulkham herbicides and fertilisers, and 13 by the 2014 FIFA World Cup, spaces, the health Hills Landscape which students potentially could reduce the offered 10 schools or youth and wellbeing delivered 31 tonnes of soil cost of feeding livestock. groups a natural grass mixed with fertiliser, and a 14 Visitors to the event in ellyville Public plants, and has implemented makeover to update sports of Australian local plumber who advised on Victoria’s Yarra Valley in the School in NSW has for programs such as Clean-up areas, enhance outdoor the sprinkler system. Dandenongs were shown how learning areas or create more children benefits. The day chosen to roll out 15 some time been Kellyville Week, worm farms grass root depth varies across involved in teaching its and recycled water through its spaces for play. the turf was 35C. Working paddocks, and how that Kstudents about native plants five tanks. By greening up schools and standard sporting field. quickly in the heat, with affects water infiltration. 16 and growing food, so when the Kellyville Public is one of play spaces, the health and Kellyville Public School, students helping to level the They were asked to touch opportunity arose to get a turf 10 schools that have been wellbeing of Australian NSW, rolled out its own turf, parents and supporters got and feel various soil types makeover, its EnviroKids rolling out “perfect pitches of children benefits. Perfect Pitch of Green with the area laid in two hours. and compare the samples 17 group was on hand to share green”, courtesy of an alliance Turf Australia has donated valuable assistance from The sprinkler system was provided. They then discussed their achievements. between Junior Landcare and turf to each recipient to cover others. Supporters included switched on, and the turf area properties of the samples, Kellyville Public has a Turf Australia to encourage an area of up to 200 square Kennards Hire, which began its life as a new play area building an understanding 18 vegetable patch as well as an kids to get outdoors and metres. This is slightly bigger inspected the site, advised on for the students at of soil compositions and best Aboriginal garden with native engender an interest in the than the goal mouth of a the machinery necessary for Kellyville Public. management practices for that soil type. 19 A pH kit was used to assess acidity levels of different soil samples, which led to 20 Irregular army takes on Dubbo parkland a discussion of what would comfortably grow in different ubbo’s defining feature, LEFT: The River Guerrillas group. pH levels. 21 the Macquarie River, has With about 20 people Dbeen “blitzed” in a well- attending the event, and planned operation over two presenter Chris Alenson 22 days, illustrating how business fielding lots of discussion can connect with the bush by and questions, the aim of helping volunteers look after people, were from Central re-introducing the community 23 their landscapes or waterways West Local Land Service, to the medium for all life was Dubbo City Council and in rural and regional areas – declared a success. NSW Department of Primary sometimes seen as the poor The Save with Soils day was cousin for corporations Industries. 24 The Department of Primary funded by one of 25 Landcare wanting to connect with Week Grow Grants awarded communities. Industries was awarded the Operation River Guerrillas prize for the greatest team by Landcare Australia last year 25 successfully launched an effort, earning a coffee and cake as part of its 25th anniversary assault on the city’s riverine voucher from Sticks and Stones celebrations. The aim of the environment to clean up weeds and tickets from the Dubbo grants was to support events 26 and improve the amenity of the Regional Theatre. seeking to attract volunteers to riparian zone last year. Chris Robinson from Central the grassroots movement. Organised by Dubbo West Local Land Service won Read about other Grow 27 Macquarie River Bushcare the award for “best dressed” Grants via landareaustralia. Group, the operation ‘gamed’ participant and took away wine com.au. Keep up-to-date the often tedious business donated by Dan Murphy’s. about opportunities and stay On the second day, the 28 of weeding, pitting three informed by subscribing to the River Guerrillas took about corporate teams against each monthly e-newsletter on the other in a two-hour challenge 20 community members into website or follow Landcare 29 to see which could get rid of the About 1600 square metres the difference we could make Danielle Littlewood. Rotary Park for a blitz on weeds most castor oil and thorn apple of weeds were eliminated. in a few short hours,” said “We absolutely smashed it.” and a mulching of the garden Australia on Facebook or bush. “It was wonderful to see the group’s spokeswoman The teams, involving 25 areas. LandcareAust on Twitter. 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38 X29431537 Landcare In Focus 1 February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4

Landcare in schools this year 5 aunceston’s “magic of growing”, and the Youngtown Primary Such “magic of giving”. They are 6 School has inspired the asked to document the whole Landcare Australia- investigations process and to be able to Lsupported teaching unit The 7 discuss its outcomes. Magic of Growing – designed might include The Magic of Growing to show students their actions monitoring, lesson is one of the Junior have a tangible impact on the Landcare resources developed 8 world and incorporate playful examining, to bridge the gap between outdoor activities with learning formal involvement in food 9 in the classroom. problem solving. gardens, which comprise a While primary school majority of schools, and students can now learn through through curriculum “inquiry linkages with lessons in the 10 a new program that their questions” to global issues. classroom to help children actions have meaning, they These issues are in turn linked better understand where their are also building a sense of to the foundational year 6 food comes from. 11 belonging to a place, with curriculum subjects of science, The one-page How To learning not confined to four health and PE. Guides and full teaching and walls. Such investigations might learning sequences also 12 These concepts are being include monitoring, encourage greater participation made available to teachers examining, problem solving, in Landcare activities such as through an Australian-first investigation, or modelling a enhancing natural habitats, 13 initiative: Landcare in the solution. This directly impacts sustainable gardening and on children, teaching staff, Curriculum – educational Youngtown Primary students busy at work on their cards. building a closer connection resources created through a community members and with the land. Landcare in the 14 partnership with the Primary is built around compassion. It Glenara Lakes Retirement The whole school volunteers before, during and Curriculum resources are Industries Education provides a full lesson in a Village and City Mission community, through key after the project. The emphasis initially aimed at primary Foundation (PIEF) and with teaching and learning sequence during Seniors’ Week as a way questions based on the is on starting small and schools and cover subjects for 15 seed funding from the where children grow daffodils of further learning and Australian Curriculum, is able thinking big. students from kindy to year 6. Australian Government and iris plants in the school demonstrating their to investigate an Rather than just go through l The resources can be downloaded Youngtown’s program, garden and then deliver them understanding of social and environmental issue in a local the motions, the unit inspires at juniorlandcare.com.au/ 16 developed by Mario Bergamin, to residents of Tasmania’s emotional wellbeing. context and make links children to appreciate the curriculumresources. 17 General talks up soil 18 t’s not surprising that the l R&D funds are likely to be “If our soil, water and biota 19 national Advocate for Soil inadequate. are therefore so important, IHealth should be urging more l Climate change could deliver then I think we need to focus on the soil. more severe droughts, bigger consider designating each as 20 What is striking about floods and hotter, more extreme key national, natural, strategic Major General Michael wild fires. assets, to be managed as such Jeffery’s address to the National “The need to do more with and in an integrated way. 21 Soil Science Conference in less, to increase the efficiency “I would like to see this Melbourne late last year was the of our food production fundamental principle accepted urgency of his appeal. systems, while at the same time across the country. We face “a very serious ensuring that we are using our “Further, in noting that our 22 problem,” he said, “because valuable natural resources in a 130,000 farmers and graziers by 2050 we have to somehow sustainable away, must remain manage over 60 per cent of our increase global food production a primary objective,” Mr Jeffery landscape , if we want it looked 23 by 70 per cent, against some said. Australia had a major after properly on a sustainable notable countertrends”. He role to play in meeting these basis, besides rewarding them listed these as: challenges, and a focus on good fairly for their produce (which 24 l The area of agricultural soil, water and biota science was is a separate question in itself), land is reducing on average by “the right place to start”. should we not be rewarding around 1per cent each year. General Jeffery with postgraduate researcher Paul Harvey of Macquarie University’s Vegesafe program, at the launch of Landcare in the He said a national soil or recognising them in some curriculum recently. 25 l Soils are likely to be research and development way as primary carers of the increasingly degraded, eroded strategy within a national policy agricultural landscape?” knowledge shortfall gaps. changes in the landscape. lead, recognising that good or aridified. framework of “restoring and Mr Jeffrey proposed two “And finally in broad “This requirement for soil management underpins a 26 l There will be substantially maintaining a resilient landscape areas to tackle in the next terms, should we have in this continuous collection of key sustainable and profitable future less water for agriculture, that is fit for purpose” would be generation of land management country a suitable national data data might be resource intensive for all. particularly in India, China, welcome. science. collection, collation, analysis but must be met,” he said. I would like to finish with 27 Africa and the Middle East, “To do this we have to look “The first is to consider and distribution system that The declaration by the 68th two quotes from Franklin where irrigation water is being to successfully integrating whether a national stocktake is easily understood, readily UN General Assembly for 2015 Roosevelt: ‘The history of every drawn from fossil aquifers the management of our soil, is necessary of what our accessible and responsive to as the International Year of Soils nation is eventually written in 28 formed over geological time and hydrology and biota. Each is knowledge base is, where it is user information needs?” was timely, he said. the way in which it cares for its virtually irreplaceable in human dependent on the good health located, and what our shortfalls He said the development “The timing is right for a soil’, and ‘A nation that destroys timeframes. of the other two, but I don’t are. of this information base was renewed focus on smart and its soil, destroys itself’, and l Farming costs will rise with often hear of it being expressed “From there would flow important as it was the only sustainable soil management ... perhaps my own quote – ‘save 29 higher fossil fuel prices. in this way. obvious priorities in meeting way to measure long-term for Australia to stand up and the soil to save the planet’.” 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38 1 Landcare In Focus February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3 he annual Bushcare’s disturbance. Their new line of Major Day Out has thinking was to slowly work exploded in popularity, out from weed-free areas, 4 uniting both city and allowing the native seedbank Tcountry people in a quest to to regenerate naturally and improve and maintain colonise the bushland. 5 bushland across Australia. Bushcare's day out However, this meticulous Bushcare’s Major Day Out method needed many willing (BMDO) was launched in 2010 hands. Joan approached the 6 to raise awareness of the primary school in Clifton threats to bushland and its Gardens and enlisted biodiversity, and to entice “gardening mothers”. 7 more volunteers to participate “I was one of those recruited in bushcare activities. aims for a record in 1964 by an eloquently From small beginnings with persuasive Joan,” said Pam. 8 just 12 sites, BMDO has grown “We were allotted a particular rapidly to 237 sites in six states weedy area and, with a strong 9 and the ACT in 2014. knife our only weapon, we This year BMDO will be were each instructed to remove held on Sunday, September 13, one type of weed only. 10 and the first site has already “We felt equally useful and been registered – Ku-ring-gai useless, but this basic training Chase National Park in NSW. heightened our interest in bush 11 BMDO is held as a key part gardening and forged lifelong of Landcare Week, supported friendships.” by partner Landcare Australia Around the same time, the 12 in its aim to be the Major Day Mosman Parklands and Ashton Out for bush and city folk Park Association formed to alike. oppose Taronga Zoo using 13 Sydney resident Don part of Ashton Park for a car Wilson and his wife Marianne park. This group supported dreamt up the idea for BMDO. Joan and Eileen in their efforts 14 They worked in a local to preserve local bushland. Bushcare group and believed Joan published Weeds and 15 more attention needed to be their Control in 1967 and Bush given to preserving bushland in Regeneration in 1971. During urban and semi-urban areas. the 70s, the Bradley Method 16 Don gained the backing of was accepted as a valuable Willoughby City Council, contribution to bushland Landcare Australia and a preservation and was adopted 17 volunteer committee to create by the National Trust. this national event. There are now thousands of He also secured the support Bushcare groups around 18 of personalities such as former Australia. BMDO is an annual prime minister Bob Hawke and Sedge-planting during Bushcare’s Major Day Out last year. opportunity to celebrate their Gardening Australia’s Costa achievements and encourage 19 Georgiadis and Angus Stewart. “We encourage everyone aware that the local council more Australians to get BMDO gives a helping with an interest caring for our We encourage everyone with an interest and other government involved. hand to bush regeneration and bushland to find their local site authorities were exacerbating Volunteers at the 2015 20 habitat revival in city and and volunteer on the day in caring for our bushland to find their local the encroaching weed problem Ku-ring-gai Chase National country areas. September,” Don said. “Most site and volunteer on the day in September. with slash-and-burn methods Park event will take part in an 21 Volunteers take part in importantly, we hope you keep of remediation. They adventurous weeding trek. different activities depending coming back to help regene­ painstakingly formulated The National Parks and on the site including walks, rate your local bushland.” Bradley. They were keen They concluded that techniques for dealing with Wildlife Service will supervise 22 planting, weed removal and While BDMO is now gardeners and loved minute quantities of organo- weeds in bushland remnants. Lantana removal from the morning teas. Some events putting Bushcare’s activities on bushwalking in Ashton Park chlorides from the use of According to BMDO vice- rocky crags along the water coincide with local the map, the seeds for the first and Bradley’s Head. chlorodiphenyltrichloroethane president Pam Organ, the edge. Volunteers must have a 23 celebrations such as the Eltham Bushcare groups were sown However, they became (DDT) were causing sterility in Bradley sisters were the first in head for heights! Copper Butterfly Festival in back in the sixties by two distressed to observe the blue- the birds. the world to advocate hand l To register your local site, visit Melbourne. Sydney sisters, Eileen and Joan wren population plummet. The sisters also became weeding and minimum www.bushcaresmajordayout.org 24 25 Peel-Harvey resource management body set up

26 he federal government Left: PHCC CEO Jane O’Malley, chairwoman has delivered on its Jan Star, Environment Minister Greg Hunt election commitment and Canning MP Don Randall during the 27 to establish the Peel- minister’s visit late in January. THarvey Catchment Council as one of Australia’s natural 28 resource management managed, thanks to the organisations. establishment of this new Federal Environment natural resource management 29 Minister Greg Hunt and the body. federal MP for Canning, Don “Environmental and natural 30 Randall, made the resource issues in the Peel- announcement last month Harvey are many and while visiting the Peel-Harvey complex. 31 Catchment Council. “There are big issues here There are now 56 natural and they need big solutions. resource management I’m confident the newly 32 organisations across the established Peel-Harvey country. These groups play an natural resource management important role in the delivery body is best placed to find 33 of the National Landcare these solutions.” Programme and enable Mr Hunt congratulated communities to take practical and thanked Mr Randall for 34 action to improve their Mr Hunt said. “This work is the Peel-Harvey region. own dedicated management NRM (the group representing his tireless commitment to the environment and contribute well underway with the Peel- “I expect funding body.” natural resource management Peel-Harvey Catchment. to a strong, competitive and Harvey natural resource arrangements to be finalised Mr Randall welcomed the organisations in Western “Don Randall is a fantastic 35 resilient agriculture sector. management strategy to be shortly and look forward to establishment of a dedicated Australia) have also been local member and has fought “In 2014-15 the Australian finalised in the coming working with the council to body for the region and said actively involved in hard to establish Peel-Harvey Government committed months. deliver on these important there was enthusiastic support supporting the establishment Catchment Council as one of 36 $500,000 under the National “The government objectives. The natural from both the local of the region,” he said. Australia’s natural resource Landcare Programme to welcomes the application resource values of the Peel- community and the landcare “I thank all of those management organisations. support the Peel-Harvey from the Peel-Harvey Harvey region and sector for the new involved for their “This is great news for 37 Catchment Council to protect Catchment Council for $3.8 environmental pressures on organisation. commitment in ensuring the people in the electorate of unique wildlife and habitat in million over four years to the area warrant its creation as “The South West Peel-Harvey region’s unique Canning.” protect wildlife and habitats in 38 the Peel-Harvey catchment,” a stand-alone region with its Catchments Council and WA environment will be better l www.nrm.gov.au Landcare In Focus 1 February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

LEFT: Responsible Runners founder Justin 3 Bonsey picking up rubbish at Sydney’s Bondi Beach. Running a fun 4

com.au) and raise funds to help 5 Landcare Australia support the way to support Landcare community. There are a number of races throughout Australia 6 to participate in such as the Orange Colour City Running a great cause Festival (NSW), Greenbelt Half 7 Marathon (South Australia), n an environment of tight run for a charity is a fantastically Sydney Morning Herald Half budgets, Landcare Australia rewarding experience: “Why Marathon (NSW) or City to 8 Iand other not-for-profit not consider running and raising Sea (Vic). In any race you organisations are increasingly funds for Landcare Australia to participate in throughout looking to inventive ways to help us support vital Landcare Australia, you can make a 9 raise funds – with leisure work,” Landcare Australia CEO difference. pursuits such as running events Tessa Jakszewicz says. When you register a popular way to get people “Running just for running’s through Everyday Hero or Go 10 involved while having fun. sake may not be enough of Fundraise, Landcare Australia About 2500 charities in a reason for some people to can help you develop your own Australia have a program for take on a race event such as a fundraising plan and explain 11 runners to raise funds for a marathon. You may look at the how to go about raising funds. cause and it is getting more challenge and think: ‘What’s the For further information competitive. purpose of participating other about setting up your 12 Landcare Australia, which than getting to the finish line?’ fundraising page or for help to recently appointed its first But having a reason of raising create an event to raise funds fundraising manager, says that funds can get you motivated to for Landcare Australia, please 13 for people who are thinking of take part in a running race.” Australia’s land and water innovative farming programs, You can now set up a contact fundraising manager participating in a local running She says raising money for generally, but it means more community gardens, bush and fundraising page through Rob Novotny via rob.novotny@ race or wanting to challenge Landcare Australia will not of the great projects that beach care and hundreds more. Everyday Hero (www. landcareaustralia.com.au or themselves perhaps by running only support the charity’s role receive grants each year from Details are at landcareonline. everydayhero.com.au) or Go phone toll-free on 1800 151 14 a marathon this year, opting to in protecting and improving the organisation – helping com.au/case-studies. Fundraise (www.gofundraise. 105. 15

16 Dairy turns its waste to asset 17 t is said ‘nature has no LEFT: Manure stockpile ready to spread at 18 waste’ but the same River Ridge Dairies. observation couldn’t be Importantly, applied to most dairies. these farmers 19 I That’s changing, one dairy Scraping the yard now takes are measuring at a time, as Lion partners its 10 minutes, can be done in all 20 dairy farmers by allocating weather, and is 100 per cent the tangible funds through Landcare effective. Australia to address energy Mr Grevett is stockpiling improvements 21 consumption, nutrient the scraped manure into a management or biodiversity compost pile that will be used achieved. challenges. to fertilise his pastures. 22 Last year Lion allocated “What was once a waste nutrients in runoff manure and $132,000 to the Lion Landcare product is now an input to the water from the concrete yards, Grant fund, for 13 initiatives farm,” he said. laneways and feed pad area 23 around Australia and the The cleaner environment around the dairy. reports are now coming in, reduces the risk of mastitis, and Murray Jeffrey, Lion’s Head demonstrating that going thus vet bills, and cows flow of agricultural procurement, 24 green can also put the budget through the yards better said it was a great result to see in the black. because of the absence of mud. the grants helping dairy Kenilworth, Queensland, A neighbouring dairy farmers achieve both 25 dairy farmer Darrin Grevett farmer has already come to sustainability outcomes and received funding to help him look at the Lion-Landcare cost savings. concrete his main yard, funded work, and is Landcare Australia chief 26 including a dirt-floored feed considering taking the same executive Tessa Jakszewicz pad. That simple project has path himself. added that innovative farming made a huge difference to the Another Queensland dairy contributed to the health of 27 operation of the dairy. farmer, Ramon Devere of River the land while improving The original yard was a Ridge Dairies, Kureelpa, also farmers’ bottom lines. 28 management nightmare for Mr Scraping manure from the yard $20,000 from Lion, Mr Grevett production,” he reported. “I put received funding from Lion to “Importantly, these farmers Grevett. took up to four hours, and the was able to concrete the yard this down to cow comfort and help increase the capacity of a are measuring the tangible When it rained, the pad job was never done and make a profound better access to brewer’s grain planned silt trap at his yard. improvements achieved by 29 turned to mud, and manure ran satisfactorily. difference to his business. (on the feed pad). “They spend The silt trap captures and their projects, which can off into surrounding paddocks. With support of about “We’ve seen a lift in more time in the paddock.” recycles the larger amounts of be shared with others.” 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38 1 Landcare In Focus February 2015 ~ www.landcareonline.com.au 2

3

4

5 Station shows sustainable way

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13 Lakefield Station vegetation management in 2007. Flying Fox Wetlands – the first Territory Conservation Agreement (300ha) site on Lakefield Station in 2011.

14

15

16

17

18 A frillneck lizard from the Flying Fox Wetlands. Garry, Kirra, now 13 and Chelsea, 16, Michele Riggs and former NRM co-ordinator James Wright. A possum sinkhole. 19 ears of shrewd and a global animal health thinking about how to We’ve put in company in a paddock trial better produce beef supporting the development of 20 cattle while protecting more than 250 the polled gene marker test. Ythe environment last year won soil contour He aims to continually 21 Garry and Michelle Riggs a improve herd productivity so National Landcare Award. banks, so water he can reduce grazing pressure. They have by no means Through careful genetic 22 finished their work. doesn’t rush selection, controlled mating The Riggs bought the and monitoring of breeder 60,000 hectare Lakefield along roads. performance, the Riggs have Station in the Katherine region 23 Pelicans on Lake Duggan, now set up as a Landcare project on Lakefield and protected under Territory Conservation Agreement. increased the fertility of their in 1999. It had fences on only moved easily, steadily or stood predominantly Brahman two boundaries, two bore holes Katherine Rural College. He troughs. Developing more There is also rotational fire overnight if needed with lanes breeding herd from 55 to 60 24 without pumping gear, and not was encouraged to improve water points and so preserving management and planned adjoining all paddocks. per cent calving rates to much else. livestock management and the wetlands that gave paddock rotation where six To minimise sediment “consistently in the late ’70s”. The strategic development enhance care for the land. Lakefield its name, has been paddocks are spelled in the wet run-off into waterways, Mr Riggs is using 25 the couple have undertaken Much of the focus was on much more achievable with season and eight in the dry. Lakefield also engaged in prizemoney from the National earned them the 2014 water, so protecting wetlands access to affordable, quality Rather than fence the lakes major works to stop sediment Landcare Award to initiate a Australian Government as a vital water source and solar installations that can be into a single paddock and let wash from its 250km of roads. tertiary scholarship for 26 Innovation in Sustainable Farm habitat for native species and put together on site. cattle trample their riparian “We’ve put in more than Northern Territory students Practices award. reducing cattle impacts on On about 90 per cent of the zones, Mr Riggs decided to 250 soil contour banks, so studying Environmental Mr Riggs approached surrounding terrain was crucial. property, stock are never more fence the waterways and pump water doesn’t rush along Science, Natural Resource 27 Lakefield’s development Mr Riggs says cattle than about 3 kilometres from water from them to tanks to roads,” Mr Riggs said. “Runoff Management, Rangeland backed by a lifetime managing perform better with ready clean water, which means it service several paddocks. moves off gently into silt traps Management and related areas. NT/WA pastoral properties as access to clean, fresh water. takes less energy for cattle to Aerial mustering can be that catch all the sediment, and “For us, this recognition was 28 well as being active in the Today, Lakefield has seven get their daily drink, and that kept to a minimum in the first the water then disperses into over a decade in the making Roper River Landcare Group bores and 52 dams to harvest pasture is more evenly utilised round and not required at all in grass.” and it in no way would have 29 from 1994, while managing water, but they are all fenced. – a productivity gain aided by the second, with stock trapped Mr Riggs has been involved been possible without the help Mataranka Station – part of Water is pumped to tanks with 400km of fencing to aid mob into watering squares and then with the NT Department of and support of many Charles Darwin University’s solar and supplied to cattle in management. into lanes. The cattle can be Primary Industries and Forestry people,” he said. 30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38