VICTORIAN

Autumn 2014 Issue 60 & Catchment Management

LANDCARE SUPPORT FEATURE Landcare on the Mornington Peninsula The many faces of facilitation Landcare for singles goes national Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management

A u t u m n 2 0 1 4 I s s u e 6 0 Contents

03 From the Minister

4 04 T he Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative Adam Hughes and John Robinson outline the vital role that facilitators play in mobilising and maintaining community participation in Landcare.

06 Reinvigorating Landcare on the Mornington Peninsula Jacqui Salter has been working to support active Landcare groups and reactivate less active groups in this biodiverse and highly populated landscape.

08 Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups – 30 years of achievement Belinda Pearce shares the secrets of the success and longevity of a network that represents groups in urban, peri-urban and rural areas. Goulburn Broken Landcare support staff learnt about tool making and identifying cultural 12 Behind the scenes with a Mallee Landcare facilitator heritage sites at a recent workshop. Kim Cross sees her role as a Landcare facilitator as providing connectivity and strong communication links between all of the environmental stakeholders in her region.

6 14 Bringing the south-west Goulburn community together Sonia Sharkey has been using courses and workshops to help people become more sustainable on their land – whether it’s a quarter acre block or hundreds of hectares of farmland.

17 The many faces of Landcare facilitation Anthony Gallacher discusses the day-to-day work of being a successful Landcare facilitator.

22 Facilitating Landcare in the Dandenong Ranges Glenn Brooks-MacMillan shares his experience of bringing the community and agencies together to work on Landcare projects in the historic Puffing Billy The Sheepwash Creek Catchment Landcare corridor east of Melbourne. Group has recently been formed in a drive to improve the health of the creek. 26 around the State Find out what’s happening in Landcare across Victoria.

14 © The State of Victoria Department of Environment Disclaimer and Primary Industries 2014. This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and This work is licensed under a Creative Commons therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or Attribution 3.0 Australia licence. You are free to re-use other consequence which may arise from you relying the work under that licence, on the condition that you on any information in this publication. credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does Editorial Advisory Committee not apply to any images, photographs or branding, Karen Brisbane Victorian Landcare Team, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Anita van Rooyen Landcare Australia Limited, Government logo and the Department of Environment and Tracey Koper Victorian Catchment Management Primary Industries logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit Council, Ugo Mantelli DEPI, Susi Johnson FTLA, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en John Robinson DEPI, Larissa Manski DEPI. Printed by Print Dynamics, Waverley. Editorial contributions Sonia Sharkey enjoys the challenge ISBN 1327 5496 Carrie Tiffany, PO Box 1135, Mitcham North 3132 Phone 0405 697 548 and diversity of working as a Landcare Accessibility E-mail: [email protected] facilitator in south-west Goulburn. If you would like to receive this publication in an alternative format, please telephone the DEPI Customer Service Centre Cover photograph on 136186, email [email protected], or via the Shire of Mornington Peninsula Landcare Facilitator National Relay Service on 133 677 www.relayservice.com.au. Jacqui Salter planning Landcare projects on This document is also available on the internet at Richard Hardham’s property at Red Hill. www.landcarevic.net.au/resources/magazine/vic Photograph by David Easton.

2 | victorian landcare and catchment management From the Minister

I’d like to start by acknowledging the taken on the challenge of recruiting The National Landcare Awards gala will landholders who have suffered significant youth and weekend visitors to Landcare wrap up the conference and bring together losses of both property and stock this activities on the peninsula. the nationwide finalists. I look forward to fire season. I am proud of and extend welcoming all finalists to our great state in We also hear from Kim Cross in the my thanks to the Landcare groups and September and I wish our Victorian finalists eastern Mallee who has helped to networks in fire affected areas who have the best of luck. banded together and are working closely reinvigorate several Landcare groups and is with DEPI and other agency staff to assist boosting the number of women taking part with the fire recovery. in the Landcare movement. Well done Kim. In this issue, we gain a fascinating insight These are just a snapshot of the talented into the support provided by hardworking facilitators employed under the Victorian facilitators and coordinators to Landcare Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative. Since groups and networks across the State. 2011, facilitators have supported the The Hon. Ryan Smith M.P. The stories remind us of the role of establishment or reinvigoration of almost Minister for Environment and Landcare facilitators and coordinators who, 200 Landcare groups. They continue to Climate Change with the assistance of State Government work with the State Government and funding, achieve exceptional management play a crucial role in the development and outcomes. resourcing of Landcare projects. Our savvy and creative Landcare facilitators I am excited to announce that Melbourne are leading the way as communicators and will host the 2014 National Landcare are always looking at ways to make new links Conference. and strong partnerships in their communities. Themed Celebrating our history – growing Amongst our selection of facilitator profiles, our future, the conference runs from we hear from Jacqui Salter, a Mornington 17 – 19 September and will showcase Peninsula facilitator supporting 12 active the work achieved Australia-wide since Landcare groups in the area. Jacqui has the inception of Landcare. These are just a snapshot of the talented facilitators 2014 National Landcare Conference employed under the Victorian Local Landcare The 2014 National Landcare Conference will take place in Melbourne Facilitator Initiative. from 17 – 19 September at the Crown Conference Centre. The three-day conference will include a day of field trips to Landcare projects in Victoria. The theme is Celebrating our history – growing our future. The conference promises to be an exciting celebration of Landcare’s achievements since its inception with a focus on the future. For registration and program details go to www.landcareonline.com.au

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 3 Facilitators support local community action to repair land degradation. The work plans of many facilitators include tasks such as helping with the planning, resourcing, delivery and monitoring of on-ground rehabilitation and restoration projects.

Rowena Ellis demonstrates caper farming on a sustainability bus tour at Mansfield that was organised by Up2Us Landcare Alliance Facilitator Kerstie Lee (centre).

By Adam Hughes The Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative and John Robinson

Facilitators play a vital role in the Landcare Effective communication is a key part of regional natural resource management movement by mobilising and maintaining each facilitator’s role. They communicate priorities with local needs and capacity. community participation so that local with the Landcare community through Training workshops for Landcare environmental and natural resource newsletters, email alerts, Facebook pages facilitators are currently being held across management issues can be addressed. and websites, and by attending group and Victoria. The workshops aim to build network meetings. Facilitators also act as a In 2011 the Victorian Government the capabilities, skills and knowledge of conduit for communication and information recognised the important contribution facilitators so that they are better equipped sharing between government agencies and of Landcare facilitators by launching to support and develop the capacity of the Landcare community. the Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator the Landcare groups and networks they Initiative (VLLFI). Under the initiative Facilitators support local community action work with. 68 VLLFI facilitators provide support to to repair land degradation. The work The crucial support that the VLLFI 582 Landcare groups and 54 Landcare plans of many facilitators include tasks such facilitators provide allows their groups networks across Victoria. as helping with the planning, resourcing, and networks to focus on the day-to-day delivery and monitoring of on-ground The facilitators work to develop and build activities of Landcare – sustainable land rehabilitation and restoration projects. the capacity of the state’s Landcare groups management, revegetation, pest plant and networks. They provide a wide range Another key role for Landcare facilitators and animal control, fencing and of support to the Landcare community, is undertaking community engagement to rehabilitation works, and remnant which varies from technical expertise on increase the participation of landholders vegetation enhancement and protection. natural resource management, to facilitation and the broader community in Landcare Facilitators are helping to build and process skills and information brokering. and to build awareness of natural resource maintain the momentum of Landcare management best practice. In 2012/13 activity across Victoria. The variety and complexity of support VLLFI facilitators organised 774 workshops, provided by facilitators depends on the Many of the stories in this issue of the seminars, field days and training events. particular needs of each Landcare group. magazine have been contributed by Groups vary in size, focus, formality, The Landcare model is based on facilitators employed through the VLLFI. organisational structure, scale and type partnerships between the community, all For further information go to www. of activity, public profile, and they even levels of government and the corporate landcarevic.net.au/resources and search determine their own boundaries. The sector. Facilitators provide an essential link for Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator support provided also varies depending between these partners. This includes Initiative, or email the DEPI Community on where a group is located – in a rural, assisting with group and network strategic Engagement and Landcare Team at peri-urban, or urban area. plans and helping to align government and [email protected]

4 | victorian landcare and catchment management I encourage groups to run interesting events in their communities, such as a wildflower walk, platypus and pizza night, frog night, fungi foray and bat information sessions.

Nest box building with Neerim and District Landcare Group. A rich calendar of activities helps Western Port groups to thrive By Rachel Drew

My Landcare journey started at the beginning The Ripplebrook Landcare Group is a good of 2012 when, fresh out of university, I joined example of a group that was struggling to the Western Port Catchment Landcare attract new members. When I first met Network as Group Support Officer. I support the group there were four people trying to the 12 Landcare groups that make up our keep it alive. We decided to hold a meeting network. Supporting Landcare groups is with a guest speaker on local wildlife and Jindivik Landcare Group members enjoying interesting, inspiring but also challenging. a free barbecue to find out if people in a pizza and platypus evening. Every group has its own personality and the Ripplebrook area were interested in different ideas about what Landcare means. coming to Landcare events. We advertised the event through a mail drop in the local Some groups in the network are really area. More than 20 people attended, with a I’ve found that attracting people to Landcare active. They host field days, conduct regular number of them choosing to join the group. is most successful when there is a broad plantings and apply for and manage their range of activities on offer. For example, own grants. Other groups are struggling We asked attendees what was the activities on biodiversity may attract a with attracting new members or being active biggest Landcare issue in the local area different audience to those on sustainable in their communities. It has been these and they identified rabbits. I applied for agriculture. Making the event social is also a groups that have really required support. a Communities for Nature grant for good idea and free food is always popular. I’ve found that tapping into something the group to undertake a rabbit control which is of interest to the group and region program and we were successful. We held We’ve had some fantastic attendances can really bring the group back to life. an information session on rabbit control at field days and even if only a handful of with another free barbecue and a different these people join their local group it can Many people think that if they join their group of Ripplebrook locals turned up. provide a great boost. I think it is important local group, they will just end up attending for groups to remember that it is not meetings and be stuck on the committee. Gradually, over the past year, the group necessarily about how many members I encourage groups to run interesting has been gaining momentum. The rabbit they have, as long as people in the local events in their communities, such as a control funding has been fully allocated and area are engaged and caring for their land. wildflower walk, platypus and pizza night, we are starting to develop a waiting list to frog night, fungi foray and bat information apply for more funding next year. We also Rachel Drew is Group Support Officer sessions. I have also helped groups to apply held a biodiversity information evening on with the Western Port Landcare Network. for grants, organise special events, source frogs that attracted 45 people including all For further information contact Rachel by guest speakers and promote their activities. 11 children from the local primary school. email at [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 5 Reinvigorating Landcare on the Mornington Peninsula

By Jacqui Salter

When I started work as a Landcare facilitator on the Mornington Peninsula in March 2012 I had no idea that it would be the most fulfilling job I have ever had. Working with environmental volunteers from different backgrounds is richly rewarding. I work alongside positive and supportive people and I feel great when I can assist them to achieve their worthwhile projects. When I began, there were six active Landcare groups in the region and four non-active groups. Some of the active groups were doing well, with good membership rates and funding for restoration projects. Membership of the other groups had dwindled to only a few and they were not hosting regular meetings or events. Survey reveals common themes My first step was to survey all the groups to work out how I could best assist them. I then met with group representatives and Richard Hardham, President of the Sheepwash Creek Catchment Landcare Group, brainstormed their priorities and areas of discussing plans for potential biolinks with Jacqui Salter. shared interest. The active groups shared a number of Active groups were keen to enlist more To my surprise, the first few grants we common themes. They had dynamic members and sought assistance with grant submitted were successful – four groups and innovative committees with a clear applications as this was an overwhelming received funding for projects ranging from focus, the members were friendly and task for many. To address this I organised biolinks to farm forestry education and enthusiastic with varied skills, no-one in the a grant writing workshop. I also spent fauna monitoring. Having an interesting group had a strong personal agenda and time researching and advertising upcoming project to work on gives groups a boost they had good links to other organisations. grants and helping groups to write them. and attracts more members.

Landcare group representatives decide to form the Mornington Peninsula Landcare Network.

6 | victorian landcare and catchment management Reinvigorating Landcare on the Mornington Peninsula

I began the challenge of reactivating Another challenge we face on the groups by starting with those that still had Mornington Peninsula is the high a few interested former members. We percentage of non-permanent residents. organised well-advertised public meetings We have tried to address the issue of where we workshopped the priorities of absentee landholders by contacting the attendees. These groups were quick landowners via mail a few weeks before to take off, with new people bringing events and holding events on weekends, enthusiasm and fresh ideas to the group. rather than weeknights. Many of these Jacqui Salter says her job as Landcare landowners are new to sustainable land Groups that had been inactive for a Facilitator on the Mornington Peninsula management but are keen to learn more. long while or had a history of frequently is both challenging and rewarding. Informative workshops such as iFarm becoming inactive were more challenging. and weed ID have been a great way of I was inspired by Rachel Drew, Group engaging with weekenders. Support Officer from the Western Port restoration projects, providing a scientific Catchment Landcare Network, who A key priority of Mornington Peninsula rationale for their work and supporting started a project lending motion-activated Landcare groups was reconnecting existing their project proposals. fauna cameras to engage landholders in patches of remnant vegetation. Despite her region. Undertaking a similar project being the most biodiverse 750km2 in Nearly two years on there are now 12 in the Watson Creek catchment gave me Victoria, more than 80 per cent of the active Landcare groups, including the newly a chance to develop a relationship with peninsula has been cleared for agriculture established Equine Landcare Group. My landholders, which resulted in this group and settlements. We decided to tackle the most exciting undertaking to date has been re-forming in December 2013. issue of habitat loss by drafting potential the creation of the Mornington Peninsula Events attract new members routes of reconnection across the Landcare Network. Forming a network peninsula. will allow us to further support action by The task of attracting more members for and across our member groups, share active groups was tackled in a number of We used habitat quality mapping as information and resources, advocate on ways. After updating the groups’ websites, the basis for the Mornington Peninsula policy issues, promote the adoption of I then became an events coordinator. Landcare Biolinks Plan. This plan sustainable land management and protect, Over the past two years, we have run and was developed through a number conserve and restore native vegetation and co-run several successful events which of workshops with local Landcare fauna. The future is looking bright. attracted new recruits. representatives, in consultation with For further information contact Jacqui These events were advertised in the local members of the Mornington Peninsula Salter, Landcare Facilitator, Mornington newspaper and through direct mail-outs Shire’s Natural Systems Team, local to residents. They included a weeds and ecologists and others. This map has been Peninsula Landcare Network by email natives look-a-like practical workshop, invaluable to groups when planning their at [email protected] planting and weeding working bees, a Sustainable Rural Land Expo, Sustainable Horse Management and Horses and Bushfire workshops, a Landcare and VFF networking evening with speaker Sean Dooley from Birds Australia, a Western Port Bushwalk with a local fauna ecologist and Landcare stalls at community fairs. These events were a great opportunity to introduce new people to the concept of Landcare and for members to meet each other and learn new skills in a relaxed and friendly environment. Recruiting youth and weekenders The challenge of recruiting younger people is a particular problem on the Mornington Peninsula where the percentage of retirees is higher than average. Social media is the logical route for communicating effectively with younger people and to enhance communication within groups. I’m grateful to Landcare Australia for their social media toolkit which I’ll be using in the coming months to set up Facebook and Twitter accounts for the groups. A well-attended tour on restoring bushland and wetlands.

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 7 One of the keys to the network’s longevity has been its capacity to respond to local issues and a willingness to adapt to changing demands and embrace new ideas.

This mighty river red gum with a trunk circumference of 980 centimetres won the BIG tree competition. Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups – 30 years of achievement

Located in north-east Victoria, Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups is a Landcare network that consists of five sub-groups representing urban, peri-urban and rural areas. Landcare has been up and running in the region since 1983 with the formation of a farm trees group.

One of the keys to the network’s longevity The cameras have a hand-held monitor has been its capacity to respond to so people on the ground can view the local issues and a willingness to adapt to contents of the box, making it a great changing demands and embrace new ideas. tool for community education. The But how do we maintain the momentum cameras also reduce the need for ladders after so many years? which makes monitoring a much safer Embracing technology experience. The network uses technology to gain a The Kergunyah sub-group uses a drone better understanding of the environment. for its wetland project. The drone captures This includes the use of pole-mounted both still and video footage and enables cameras and drones. volunteers to obtain a bird’s eye view The Baranduda sub-group has over of the wetland. The drone is operated 250 nest boxes targeting endangered using a smart phone and is used to record mammals (tuans and squirrel gliders) and seasonal changes, map weed infestations bats. They use pole-mounted cameras and obtain images of inaccessible areas. as part of their regular monitoring program. It has been a big hit with the younger Tony Marsh from Baranduda Landcare Group This provides an opportunity to view generation who are generally very keen to using a pole camera to inspect a nest box. rarely seen nocturnal mammals. use new technology.

8 | victorian landcare and catchment management Landcare is nothing without its members, so maintaining and strengthening the membership base is critically important.

A squirrel glider taking a nap in a Landcare group nest box.

Kiewa Catchment Landcare Groups – 30 years of achievement By Belinda Pearce

Celebrating success The network executive meets each was the largest dung beetle release The network believes it is important to month and has representation from each and monitoring program undertaken in celebrate successes and to communicate sub-group. The network also produces a south-eastern Australia. Given the rise achievements to the broader community. bi-monthly newsletter and is a regular user in farming input costs, landholders have As part of their 30th anniversary of the Landcare Gateway. enthusiastically embraced the benefits of celebrations the network ran a BIG tree dung beetles. This year the network will be launching competition. an online membership system. The In 2013 the network, with the assistance of The idea was inspired by a similar system will allow volunteers to renew the North East CMA, conducted soil tests competition run by the Spring Creek Dairy memberships or join Landcare and that documented the long-term beneficial Creek Landcare Group. Four thousand provides a range of payment options changes to soil fertility as the result of dung postcards were delivered to local mailboxes including PayPal. The online membership beetle activity. The network has also been in the Landcare network area inviting system will automatically generate involved in deep-burrowing earthworm people to submit entries into the numerous renewal notices and will ensure sub-group trials and this year it will partner with categories that included biggest tree, secretaries always have access to up-to- Indigenous knowledge holders to conduct favourite tree and best revegetation project. date membership details. The system native grass and pasture burning trials. The competition raised awareness of will lessen the load for the membership The strength of Landcare in the region is the decline in big tree populations and secretary and use technology to its best its ability to adapt and respond to issues highlighted the work of Landcare in advantage. that are of relevance to its members. The ensuring their survival. The competition Research received considerable media attention employment of a Local Landcare Facilitator Landcare is a leading researcher in the in January 2012 was greatly welcomed by and was embraced by the community. region – finding local solutions to local The winners were announced at the the network and has provided additional problems. Partnering with other groups impetus to the many projects that are network’s AGM that was attended by and agencies has been critical to many of more than 80 people. The winner was underway. our successful research projects. The Do a magnificent river red gum. it with Dung dung beetle project involved Belinda Pearce is the Local Landcare Communication partnerships with more than 20 other Facilitator with the Kiewa Catchment and Landcare is nothing without its members, Landcare groups in Victoria and New Upper Ovens Valley Landcare Groups. so maintaining and strengthening the South Wales, 100 landholders, North For further information email Belinda at membership base is critically important. East CMA, DEPI and CSIRO. The project [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 9 Group support grants help to relieve fundraising burden

By John Robinson

The ongoing costs associated with running a Landcare group, such as annual insurance and incorporation fees, can threaten a group’s viability. In the past the burden of finding ongoing running costs forced some Landcare groups to discontinue or to go into recess. The availability of Landcare group support grants of $500 helps to offset the operating costs required to run a Landcare group or network. The grants can be used to cover costs such as printing, production of newsletters and promotional materials. These small Old hay baler in operation at the 175-year celebrations at Smeaton. grants also require minimal reporting and group members are relieved of the extra the North Central CMA in 2013 helped The festivities at the mill included men fundraising tasks of selling raffle tickets or to kick start the formation of Friends of and women dressed in period costume hot-dogs just to keep their group viable. Smeaton. The funds covered the group’s who gave demonstrations of period The group support grants are part of initial incorporation and insurance costs skills and crafts. Making your own rope, the State Government’s Victorian Landcare and allowed them to focus on planning a milling your own oats and baling your Grants which also provide start-up grants celebration to mark Smeaton’s 175 years own hay were all on the menu for kids. to help with establishing new groups or of settlement. A re-enactment of the delivery of produce networks. A new Landcare network can Friends of Smeaton by Clydesdale-drawn wagons was a receive a start-up grant of $1000 per engage with the past highlight, as were the working steam network. A new Landcare group can According to Ron Cosgrave, President of engines and vintage machinery. The receive a start-up grant of $500 per group. Friends of Smeaton, the group has played celebrations attracted around 3000 The Victorian Landcare Grants for a key role in bringing the community of visitors and were a huge hit,” said Ron. 2013-14 allocated group support grants Smeaton together to improve both the township and the natural environment. The Friends of Smeaton has a membership to 278 groups and networks. A total of of 33 local people and has many $137,000 was granted which also included “After months of planning, an exciting improvements planned for the town, nine start-up grants for the formation of weekend of historic activities took place in including weed control works along new groups and networks. October 2013. Smeaton is home to Birch’s the water race at Andersons Mill, and Creek, on which stands a five-storey Some start-up grants have provided much environmental and amenity enhancements bluestone flour mill, known as Andersons more than just the wherewithal to enable on a block of shire land in the town. Mill. The mill, built in 1861, has the only the formation of a new group or network. working water wheel in the country, and is For further information about Victorian A $500 Landcare start-up grant from these days managed by Parks Victoria. Landcare Grants go to your CMA website.

Wagons on their way to Smeaton to re-enact the delivery of produce from Clunes to Andersons Mill at Smeaton.

10 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Creative facilitation turns waste into fertiliser By Lisette Mill

I work as a Landcare facilitator for the Basalt to Bay Network in south-west Victoria’s Moyne Shire. Like many Landcarers I am committed to picking up litter and recycling. So it makes sense to support other organisations Chipped compost from the Moyne Shire Waste Facility is now being turned into to do the same, particularly if a small push from Landcare organic fertiliser for use on local farms. can start something very big.

In early 2012 I heard that a local company, possible – and it is now underway. The partners lined up to make a cathedral. In Camperdown Compost, was on the hunt two organisations have partnered on this case the cathedral is a pile of council for local sources of carbon – particularly diverting over 404 tonnes of green waste green waste; the builders are worms; and wood chips. I recalled the mound of bulky from the site to be turned into organic improved soil health and cost savings for green waste piled at the Moyne Shire fertiliser for use on local farms. What was council is the mortar. Waste Facility just outside Port Fairy. I once waste is now a useful resource and I applaud both Moyne Shire and the wondered whether council and industry Moyne Shire has recovered some of its Camperdown Compost Company would be able to work together to use that waste processing costs. for getting involved. When local green waste as a component of compost Bringing people together is one of the government and industry lead the way on local farms. most productive and satisfying roles of the it makes facilitating recycling and reuse I arranged for Bruce Reaburn, Waste Landcare facilitator. Many facilitators work at a property level so much easier for Officer at Moyne Shire Council, to meet in multi-partner and multi-stakeholder Landcare staff like me. Tony Evans from Camperdown Compost environments and have a lot of knowledge Lisette Mill is the Local Landcare and myself at the Badhams Road site one about what’s happening in the landscape. Facilitator with the Basalt to Bay wild and wet day. We viewed the pile This knowledge can sometimes point to Landcare Network. For further of green waste deposited at the site by a way of shuffling the blocks around. A information contact Lisette by email trailer and truck. The project looked small amount of time can get the various at [email protected]

Bringing people together is one of the most productive and satisfying roles of the Landcare facilitator.

Lisette Mill contemplates the many forms that facilitation can take in the bush at St Helens.

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 11 Behind the scenes with

a Mallee Landcare facilitator By Kim Cross

Two years ago I accepted a position with Mallee CMA as a fulltime Landcare facilitator working with the six Landcare groups that make up the Eastern Mallee Landcare Consortium. I was excited by the prospect of starting something new and being able to contribute to on-ground natural resource management, community engagement and raising the profile of Landcare. Little did I know I would go on to form lifelong connections and friendships with Landcare and community group volunteers. In the beginning – connect, listen and support Covering an area from Robinvale and extending south through to Sea Lake initially seemed overwhelming. I decided a plan was needed to ensure the needs of all groups were met. With this in mind I diligently printed out Landcare material and started sending out emails to set up a group meeting. The day arrived. I was armed with my Robinvale P-12 students enjoying their community garden open day at Mallee CMA’s Waterwatch trailer. stack of paperwork and welcoming smile, but there were only four participants. I was perplexed about how to reach all of the I contacted the executive of one of the is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. groups and provide the support they needed. groups and they extended an invitation for Much of my time is spent supporting group an informal meeting. Over coffee I got to secretaries and coordinators to navigate know the group executive. This helped me their way through funding applications. to see and understand the issues directly Providing opportunities to improve grant affecting their lives and what they needed writing skills through workshops and to help their group to continue to support training is also critical. positive environmental outcomes. All I had Training is also important for strong group to do was to listen; this was when my role governance. By identifying skill sets among as facilitator became apparent. group executives we have been able to Much of my time is spent Building a strong foundation – provide a computer course on managing supporting group secretaries engage, motivate and celebrate projects through Excel, and information Most of the groups I work with have sessions on Quickbooks. The training and coordinators to navigate been operating successfully since the early aims to streamline group processes, keep their way through funding 1990s and each group has their own way paperwork to a minimum and contribute of doing things. We needed to convey the to the quality of reporting. applications. Providing purpose of the groups as a consortium. Regular Landcare meetings and planning opportunities to improve We worked together to come up with sessions have resulted in the development a mission statement for the consortium: and implementation of individual group grant writing skills through ‘Custodians of the land working together action plans for 2013–18. The plans identify workshops and training is to enhance and protect the unique Eastern priority issues including pest plant and Mallee landscape for future generations.’ animal threats, group development, Junior also critical. The mission statement, and an Landcare, remnant vegetation protection, accompanying logo, has helped to secure community assets and engagement. group sponsorship and support which will Connectivity – Landcare, ensure group sustainability. Group survival community, government is a priority and it depends on funding, I have been able to create and maintain both philanthropic and government, which strong networks with local government

12 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Manangatang community members celebrate after a successful tree planting at the local rest stop.

and non-government agencies. This has action groups emerging. These groups During 2013 I developed and ran a been very important when groups are are taking ownership of community Ladies Leadership Conference with the undertaking pest plant and animal control assets, attracting new volunteers support of the Landcare volunteers. projects. A major achievement has been and creating a sense of kinship in the The conference included guest speakers the control of pest rabbit populations community. on ladies in Landcare, mental health and which are a major threat to viable Although women make up a small well-being, supporting rural women, agricultural land and flora and fauna species number of Landcare volunteers in the getting involved with community groups in the Mallee. Eastern Mallee Landcare consortium and healthy minds and bodies. Relaxation As a facilitator I have been able to provide they are the key drivers of executive yoga classes and health checks were also connectivity and strong communication committees. Women take on many performed on the day. The conference links between all of the environmental lead project management roles and was a great success and will be held stakeholders. This has fostered some new contribute significantly to on-ground again in 2014. action in the region with urban Landcare works and community projects. The future is in the balance Landcare groups in the Mallee need ongoing support so they can continue their efforts to manage pest species, regenerate our environmental assets and provide educational opportunities to the next generation of Landcarers. Living off the land has never been easy and Mallee farmers are resilient and resourceful. Facilitators who are prepared to listen and learn can help the people of the Mallee with the balancing act of managing viable agricultural land whilst contributing to biodiversity and a harmonious environment. It’s an honour to be part of it. For further information contact Kim Cross by email at [email protected]

Guest speakers at the 2013 Ladies Leadership Conference.

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 13 Long-term partnerships bring the most benefits. The Glenaroua Land Management Group and the Manningham Rotary Club have been working together for 15 years.

Sonia Sharkey enjoys the challenge and diversity of working as a Landcare facilitator in south-west Goulburn. Courses and workshops bring the south-west Goulburn community together

The South West Goulburn Landcare Courses and workshops bring hang a gate, keeping chooks for eggs and Network sits within the Goulburn Broken the community together meat, vegetable gardening, drip irrigation, catchment. The network covers an area The FarmBlitz program builds on the growing and pruning fruit trees, water of approximately 100,000 hectares. The knowledge of all the participants at a health of dams and creeks and wetlands, landholder base is changing from being workshop and provides a way of sharing making sourdough bread, permaculture mainly fulltime farmers to a mixed bag of knowledge and linking people with different gardening, creating frog habitats, caring farmers, hobby farmers, lifestyle or tree skills. The program aims to help people for sheep and alpacas, soil health, changers and absentee landholders, along become more sustainable on their plot composting, worm farming, bush tucker with people moving into the local towns. – whether it is a quarter acre block or foods and preserving your harvest at the hundreds of hectares of farmland. end of the growing season – all fascinating Planning and running workshops to target topics and a great way of bringing people specific groups or targets is one of my We’ve run workshops and courses on together. challenges as Landcare facilitator. many different topics – fencing, how to As well as running workshops and field days I also help the Landcare groups under the network banner to apply for grants. Once the projects have been completed I assist with final reporting and project mapping as well as planning future projects. I also help people with identifying plants. After the 2009 bushfires many strange plants appeared in the area. Some are native species that required the fires to set them into action, while others were weeds which were brought into the area with stock feed or mulch. Finding volunteers and fostering partnerships for planting projects is a large part of the job, especially leading up to the autumn break and planting A workshop on keeping chooks for eggs and meat helps to forge links between people in the community. season. Creating partnerships with

14 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Each day brings something different and the sense you are working in partnership with people on something important, something that will leave a legacy well into the future.

A workshop on making sourdough bread is a way of extending the Landcare concept and introducing it to a new range of people.

Courses and workshops bring the south-west Goulburn community together By Sonia Sharkey Landcare for the retired In my role as Landcare facilitator I have been running a program with the corporate groups is an excellent way One of my favourite parts of the job residents at the local retirement village. of benefiting not only the landholder and is the individual site visits with landholders. We sow 100 tube stock of a species the environment, but volunteers can also This is a great opportunity to have a look that is disappearing from the landscape walk away with a real sense of pride and at a property, address any issues and – currently drooping sheoak – from ownership in what they have achieved. assist with funding to help find a solution locally collected seed. Fostering links and partnerships for a problem. It is always great to see After the residents have sown the seed Long-term partnerships bring the most the environmental works underway on I take it home and look after it until the benefits. The Glenaroua Land Management properties as part of the normal course autumn break. Local landholders then Group and the Manningham Rotary Club of land management. prepare an area to receive the plants. have been working together for 15 years. There are constant requests from the The residents get feedback on where They have put 100,000 plants back into public for information and there is work the plants have gone. We are also the landscape to aid with salinity and on our regular bi-monthly newsletter hoping to take some residents on a bus erosion as well as creating corridors of that keeps the community up to date trip to an accessible site so they can see vegetation for a variety of native species to on field days, workshops and topics of the benefits of their handiwork. use and move through. interest. There are regular Landcare group meetings I get wonderful support and direction throughout the year to attend. This helps me to keep in contact with the group from the network committee – there’s members and listen to what a group’s always someone to bounce ideas off. priorities are. Then there are meetings There is no chance of getting stale when with other natural resource management you work in Landcare. Each day brings agencies and local government something different and the sense you departments. are working in partnership with people on something important, something that This provides a fantastic network of will leave a legacy well into the future. contacts not only in my region and catchment area, but across all catchments. Sonia Sharkey is the South West These links can have many practical Goulburn Landcare Facilitator. For further benefits when tackling issues such as information contact Sonia by email at working on the Mount Piper biolink – [email protected] Residents of the Dianella Retirement Village at part of a chain of vegetation that connects Kilmore sowing seed for South West Goulburn with the Central Victorian Biolink. Landcare Network projects.

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 15 A year with the Bellarine Landcare Group By Emma Camilleri

In February 2013 I received the happy I love working with communities, talking been granted Caring for our Country funding news that I had been employed as the to people about all things conservation and for a major project to reduce the impact Landcare facilitator with the Bellarine land management and being able to get of foxes on our RAMSAR assets – Swan Landcare Group (BLG). My previous dirty, so working as a Landcare facilitator is Bay and Lake Connewarre. The project is experience, spanning around ten years, a great mix for me. I also get to live on the called the Bellarine Ark. It has an eight-year included a stint as a ranger with Parks beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. history and has been successful in bringing Victoria, work as an environmental project BLG is a member of the Bellarine Catchment private and public landholders together in a officer for a non-government organisation Network. Working for the group involves collaborative approach. in the United Kingdom and a conservation project management, community education A project to build the resilience of the ranger position with local government. and hands-on practical work. The group has Bellarine RAMSAR sites funded by Communities for Nature is another of my major projects. Now in its second year, the project involves working with private landholders to identify threats to waterways and remnant vegetation. Partial funding is then provided to assist them to fence off sensitive sites, control rabbits and develop buffer zones and wildlife corridors using direct seeding methods. When waterways are being revegetated with plant stock we source it from two local community-run nurseries. It’s been a great year. I’ve never been busier, but the group seems to be running smoothly and all of our projects are achieving good outcomes. I think being a Landcare facilitator is all about balance. For further information go to the Bellarine Landcare Group’s website at www.bellarinelandcare.org.au Emma Camilleri (far right) working with students from Bellarine Secondary College along the or email Emma Camilleri at Bellarine Rail Trail. [email protected]

Help Landcare to develop overseas By Rob Youl

Australian Landcare International (ALI) Grants are small – there is currently a and the Victorian Landcare Council have $500 limit, but this can go a long way in created an Overseas Landcare Fund for developing countries. To ensure funds small community projects abroad. arrive at their destination and are used effectively, we link with known overseas Initial donations for the fund came from non-government organisations and ALI, the Victorian Landcare Council, contacts, and seek pictures and reports organisations, Landcare networks and from the groups involved. groups and private sources, while bankmecu provided $1500 to cover There are projects in Africa, south- set-up and transfer costs. east Asia and the South Pacific seeking funding and we invite Landcare groups, Funds have been allocated to projects networks and individuals to contribute. in the Democratic Republic of the Where appropriate we link donors with Congo for revegetation, Nigeria for specific projects and their involvement Motorbikes transport seedlings for food wetlands and biodiversity, Tanzania can lead to genuine relationships, and erosion control to steep mountain for junior Landcare, Sri Lanka for the exchange of ideas and even to areas in central Sumatra, Indonesia. water quality and the Philippines and Victorians doing Landcare work abroad. Indonesia for tree nurseries. A wetland project in Laos and a tree nursery For further information go to and training project in Cameroon will www.australianlandcareinternational.com be underway soon. or email Rob Youl at [email protected]

16 |  victorian landcare and catchment management The many faces of facilitation: Anthony Gallacher hosts a Landcare stall at the Pyramid Hill College fete.

The many faces of Landcare facilitation By Anthony Gallacher

I’m often asked by friends what a Landcare facilitation and reporting. This includes Facilitators also work as cartographers. facilitator actually does. Some of these coordination of conservation projects such The map-making facilitator takes lines on people have only a vague notion of as weed control, the running of meetings aerial photographs and transfers them onto Landcare and I struggle to give a direct and signing off of reports. online mapping tools or into geographic and simple answer to what I do. information software. Maps are an important Some of the lesser-known tasks include planning tool for facilitators and groups. In my experience, the day-to-day work journalism, photography, marketing and of being a Landcare facilitator is rarely teaching. Landcare facilitators write and Then there’s the ecologist role. This can the same. Landcare facilitators deal with take photographs for articles, newsletters be a challenge when people expect you to a diversity of people, groups, plants and and media releases. Marketing skills come know every weed, crop, plant, animal and animals and opportunities. to the fore through stalls and in the details insect in the region. It’s a great opportunity for learning and with the right resources The components that come to mind most of grant applications where you are trying it doesn’t take long to start getting familiar readily when thinking about the Landcare to articulate your message and sell your with the landscape. facilitator role are project management, project. I also manage the network’s website and In all of these different roles Landcare blog, including uploading content, news, facilitators are engaged in community events and grant opportunities. The development – helping local community website is an important communication groups articulate their vision for their link between our network and the rest landscape and Landcare group. of the community. It serves as a record- Being a Landcare facilitator is a diverse keeping tool and as a means to keep and privileged role. If I had to write a network members up to date. The position description for my job I’d have email subscription service provides an to include everything from web manager, easy method to alert people to what’s assistant treasurer through to ecological happening in between the bi-monthly consultant, plus a footnote: whatever release of our newsletter. you want to make it. Graphic design skills come into play Anthony Gallacher has been the when producing a group brochure, event Landcare Facilitator for the Loddon Plains Anthony Gallacher gives a presentation to flyer, or a new banner. This presents an Landcare Network since March 2012. students at Boort P-12 College as part of a opportunity to move away from words For further information email Anthony Trees for Mum event. and exert some creative flair! at [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 17 Since the network was formed we’ve had a permanent facilitator which has given us direction and leadership.

Third generation farmer Irene Punton at one of the Mid Loddon Landcare Network’s protected bush stone curlew habitat sites. Landcare memories from Mid Loddon

In 1999 when the Mid Loddon Landcare According to Rob the farming population Network was first formed, I was its project has shrunk since then and the farms have manager, having been a member of the become larger. Upper Spring Creek Landcare Group for “Much of the supporting infrastructure has five years. My role for the network was to disappeared, but the local Landcare group provide support to our member groups has steadily gained strength, continuing to by writing grant submissions, assisting with project delivery and reporting on the expand in area and activities.” completed projects. West Marong Landcare Group Members of the West Marong Landcare Group extends its interests I remember one of our farmers saying: study their satellite imagery biomass maps as Rob has been supporting the group as “You do the paperwork Jude and we’ll do part of the precision agriculture project. secretary for almost 25 years and continues the on-ground work.” And they did, year to be a vocal and active member. Rob and after year, even through the long dry. Each his family have recently set up a successful year the work of fencing creeks, remnants cell grazing trial site with support from and wildlife corridors was planned and a Farming for Sustainable Soils Network completed across farmland, public land and project. They are also involved in other the lifestyle properties that surround our soil health projects, remnant woodland forests and farms. Over a few short years protection and revegetation. our Mid Loddon landscape was changed forever. Recently I spoke with a number Third generation Woodstock West farmer of local Landcarers on how Landcare has Howard Hepburn is another foundation evolved in Mid Loddon. member of the West Marong Landcare Group. Howard can remember the Fifth generation Derby farmer Rob group’s first plantings of tube stock. Pollock remembers that the Derby and Leichardt farming community formed “We enjoyed the friendship of working a revegetation action group in 1986 to together planting out eroded creeks and work on revegetation. In 1990 this group gullies. As time moved on and our knees extended its membership further south to grew older we began the faster method Woodstock and Laanecoorie and became of direct seeding paddock shelterbelts. known as the West Marong Landcare We also worked at fencing out patches of Group. remnant vegetation and repairing fences

18 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Mid Loddon Landcare Network members conduct a serious investigation of newly sown pasture at a cell grazing trial site.

Landcare memories from Mid Loddon By Judy Crocker

that protected soil erosion repair work “It’s also good to see that our young infra-red cameras set up in four of the begun, but not completed, in the 1960s.” folk are now taking on the challenge of bush stone curlew protected habitat areas farming. They are quick on the uptake on agricultural and public land near the According to Howard the group had no of new technology like GPS and using Shelbourne Nature Conservation Reserve. coordinator for a number of years and satellite imagery to assess crop and pasture According to Jenny when people live on a got by with departmental support. growth.” lifestyle bush block, it is too easy for them to “Since the network was formed we’ve had Farmers and lifestyle landholders just treat it like a very large suburban block. a permanent facilitator which has given work together us direction and leadership. Our projects One of the major achievements of the “People hurry to and from their work in have extended into a strong interest in soil Mid Loddon Landcare Network has been town and don’t spend the time to really health involving intensive soil testing and how farmers and lifestyle landholders work appreciate what they are custodians of. nutrient trials. We are also interested in together. The network’s aim is landscape Landcare is a great interface between precision agriculture in its many forms and restoration in its many forms. We have country and city and can be full of useful integrated pest management. The groups farmers attending lifestyle group meetings insights for people who don’t earn a living in the network are keen to lower the use and lifestyle landholders joining in with many off the land. of insecticides as we rebuild our native bird of the farmer group meetings and events. “A greater understanding leads to populations.” A recent addition to the network has involvement in revegetation, plant identification and wildlife monitoring which Irene Punton and her family have been been the Mid Loddon Conservation then increases our knowledge of the area members of the West Marong Landcare Management Network. The network has and our sense of community. Our local Group since 1990. Irene has been consolidated relationships with local public Landcare group is working to re-establish treasurer since 1991 and her son, land managers and strengthened interest the bush stone curlew in our area by Nic Punton, is the current president. from network groups to tackle all landscape problems equally, whether on agricultural, providing suitable habitat, fox control and a Irene says she’s enjoyed the journey of lifestyle or public land reserves. breeding program. This has brought people land rehabilitation across the local farms. together from farms and rural blocks to Frank and Jenny Steele live on a bush achieve this goal and share in the benefits.” “The change in the landscape and soil block at Lockwood South and are active health has been very pleasing. We’ve members of the Upper Spring Creek Judy Crocker is the Mid Loddon increased our knowledge by learning Landcare Group. Frank is a Waterwatch Landcare Network’s Facilitator. from each other as a group and from the volunteer and monitors the condition For further information contact specialist knowledge we’ve brought in. of Bullock Creek. Jenny monitors the Judy by email at [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 19 Landcare for Singles – recruiting volunteers and fostering new relationships

Facilitation can have many applications. Former Yarra Ranges Landcare Network We then went about planning a day that is In my role as a Landcare facilitator with Facilitator Kim Boswell developed open to anyone single and over 18 years the Yarra Ranges Landcare Network, Landcare for Singles in 2010. Kim was of age. Participants were encouraged to amongst a suite of other tasks, I help to keen to address a declining and ageing circulate around the planting site, with a run a program that is aiming to recruit volunteer base and a growing sense within number of icebreaker questions provided new volunteers to Landcare activities the network that young people were and incentives to encourage mingling. while offering them an opportunity to not interested in the environment or A recipe for success meet a potential life partner. volunteering. We’ve had singles of all ages, from a “We needed to do something that would variety of places, and with different levels clearly demonstrate the willingness of of environmental awareness. While some young folk to participate in environmental nerves are apparent, we aim to make volunteering activities. Something that people feel at ease by being welcoming would assist us to open our minds to the and relaxed. My skill set is in natural fact that in order to engage a different resource management and I am still generation we would need to change or developing the art of social engineering. adapt ourselves and our traditional ways of Getting people together in a beautiful working,” Kim said. natural environment with no loud music or Potential recognised alcohol and giving them something useful A Landcare Volunteer Action Project to do is conducive to conversation and a Grant provided the seed funding for the recipe for success. initial Landcare for Singles event in 2011. We’ve been particularly successful at The Yarra Ranges Landcare Network, attracting women to our events. Perhaps with support from Landcare Australia women are more open to trying Limited and the Yarra Ranges Council, has something new? With any new idea, it had great success with the project. The can take a while to catch on and gain network is testing the viability of making momentum. We advertise through sporting Landcare for Singles a regular seasonal clubs, community centres, Facebook, local activity in the Yarra Ranges. newspapers, radio and shop fronts. In The Landcare Australia Limited online kit As the new facilitator I was involved in our experience men are a little slower to provides groups with all of the resources running two events in 2013. We chose sign up, but at our second event for 2013 they need to run a successful Landcare for sites where groups were planning to we had more equal numbers of men and Singles event. rehabilitate and needed additional support. women on the day.

We needed to do something that would clearly demonstrate the willingness of young folk to participate in environmental volunteering activities.

From little things, big things grow: a day of planting trees together can forge new friendships.

20 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Landcare for Singles – recruiting volunteers and fostering new relationships By Anne Fitzpatrick Landcare for Singles goes national

By Trish O’Gorman

Following on from the inaugural Landcare for Singles event run by the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Landcare Network, the Landcare Australia team recognised how clever and innovative this type of event was and how well it could work to encourage a new demographic to get involved with Landcare. Working with Kim Boswell, Landcare Australia developed a project kit and downloadable resources and templates which would help any group run a Landcare for Singles event. As a result, Landcare for Singles was launched as a national program on Valentine’s Day in 2012. As part of the national launch, Landcare Australia funded events in Canberra, Darwin, the Gold Coast, Perth and the Illawarra region of New South Wales. Landcare Australia worked with local coordinators to promote the series of events, encourage registrations and highlight the opportunity for other groups to get involved. Over 200 people took part in these events, with over 80 per cent of A Landcare for Singles event at Warburton last year. attendees never having been involved in a Landcare event before.

After both of the 2013 events we surveyed an understanding of the spirit and intent Since the launch, Coastcare for Singles participants to obtain feedback. Twenty-four of Landcare. We may not get an instant events have taken place in Perth and people responded to the survey after the increase in group membership, but this Landcare for Singles events in St Kilda, Wesburn event. More than 85 per cent of is something we will monitor over time. Brisbane and the Yarra Valley. respondents rated the event as excellent or We are always looking for new ways The project kit includes a detailed very good and 76 per cent of respondents to attract volunteers and recognising that outline of what’s involved in running an said they would recommend a similar event there are different kinds of volunteers event, a sample running order and event to a friend. Eight respondents said they with different capacities to commit checklist. Groups can also download would look into joining a Landcare group. to groups is important. We’d like to promotional templates, including poster After the event at Birdsland we refined the increase engagement with retirees, and flyer artwork, registration forms, survey and asked participants if they would singles, families and working people name tags and many other resources like us to help facilitate a connection with with spare time. Some future ideas to help make their event a success. anyone that they met on the day. Four include a Landcare event aimed at single Trish O’Gorman is the Communications connections have been initiated and we hope parents and having an operatic orchestra Director at Landcare Australia to hear of some positive stories from these. accompany a planting day – the creative Limited. All resources, templates juices are flowing in the Yarra Ranges. In the Yarra Ranges, Landcare for Singles and the project kit can be downloaded has been successful at introducing a variety Anne Fitzpatrick is Landcare Facilitator from the resources section of of new people to Landcare. We are with the Yarra Ranges Landcare Network. www.landcareonline.com.au providing potential new volunteers with For further information email Anne at From little things, big things grow: a day of planting trees together can forge new friendships. a positive experience and giving them [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 21 Facilitating Landcare in the Dandenong Ranges –

a view from both sides of the fence By Glenn Brooks-MacMillan

My involvement with Landcare started with a desire to restore depleted farmland. I became involved in tree planting, weed management, protecting native vegetation and establishing Trust for Nature covenants. I joined the local Cardinia Creek Landcare Group and eventually found myself elected to the position of President. Our group joined other local groups to form the Southern Ranges Environment Alliance (SREA). In early 2012 we were successful in obtaining a Victorian Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative position for the historic Puffing Billy corridor in the hills of the Dandenong Ranges, east of Melbourne. The position was advertised and I suddenly had a big decision to make – what would Landcare look like from the other side of the fence and could this role help with the issues my local group face every day? I applied for the facilitator position. The rest is history!

My work is directed by a committee of Building relationships is a key part of delivering on-ground natural resource management. management, but my approach is always From left: local Member for Gembrook Brad Battin, SREA Facilitator Glenn Brooks-MacMillan, to return to the question: what would Puffing Billy CEO John Robinson, Yarra Ranges Lyster Ward Councillor Samantha Dunn and I expect from a facilitator if I was a local Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Brett Owen. group member or resident? I quickly learnt that many groups experience similar challenges when applying Landcare practices to their property, local reserve Billy (operated by the Emerald Tourist or park. As a facilitator I am in the unique Railway) Board on weed management, position of being able to explore the reasons tree planting, fauna management and behind these constraints. After a period of community engagement. The Green Tracks investigation I suspected that a lack of true Project was created – a partnership with community engagement was one of the the sharing of resources and knowledge. problems. Having the onground experience However, it quickly became obvious to challenge these constraints has been very that some natural resource management valuable. practices were being questioned when others were encouraged and supported. Working towards true engagement My work is directed by a I spent a lot of time working with agencies Community builds on weed program trying to understand engagement – what The ability to build community capacity committee of management, does it mean to each party? I came to has been realised by the formation of the Community Weed Alliance of the but my approach is always understand that the community was sometimes being informed rather than Dandenongs. The weed alliance began to return to the question: engaged. as a small group of residents concerned about the damaging effects of weeds in the what would I expect from I may never resolve all of the issues in Dandenongs. The State Government and a facilitator if I was a local bringing agencies and community groups local councils have been investing in weed together, but having regular communication works on public land under a program group member or resident? and open discussions clearly helps the called Urban Fringe Weed Management parties to work together more closely. Initiative (UFWMI). Understanding some of the causes may The Community Weed Alliance of the work better in solving problems than Dandenongs raised interest in the issue reacting to the symptoms. of weeds on adjacent private land, and SREA was able to source funding from a after a series of bus tours and forums Victorian Government Communities for was successful in obtaining some funding Nature grant to work with the Puffing for a model project. Simply named

22 |  victorivictorianan llandcareandcare aandnd ccatchmentatchment mmanagementanagement Employing Landcare staff

By Susi Johnson

Landcare support staff can be critical to the success of groups and networks. Understanding the rights and responsibilities of the employer and the employee is important for avoiding conflict and ensuring that people are treated fairly.

The Farm Tree and Landcare Association Independent contractors need to hold (FTLA) fields many queries on whether their own insurance. If they do not have Landcare support staff are considered to existing insurance it is an indication that be employees, independent contractors they are not established and experienced or voluntary workers. While we can’t independent contractors. For FTLA give legal advice, we can point people in member groups, volunteers are covered the right direction. by FTLA insurances and employees are covered for professional and public The definitions in this area aren’t liability, but separate Workcover may particularly clear and can depend on also be required. whether you are concerned with wages and conditions (employment law), tax Contractors (and volunteers) retain and superannuation (the Australian intellectual property rights so you Taxation Office), or safety (WorkSafe). need to ask them to assign or license The Cardinia Creek Landcare Group has been any intellectual property they develop It’s often assumed that an Australian active in trying to improve the health of the on your behalf. Employee-developed Business Number (ABN) makes Cardinia Creek Catchment for the platypus. intellectual property is owned by someone an independent contractor, employers. but many employees also have ABNs. Another misconception is Clear agreement around work priorities UFWMI Plus, the aim is to carry out that independent contractors submit is vital. Problems can arise from lack of works on private land to complement timesheets, but so do casual employees, work plans, performance management, the weed control works that are underway and sometimes superannuation is paid or unclear lines of authority. Both parties on public land. to contractors. Vouchers provided to need to be satisfied with hours and volunteers as rewards for their work work conditions. Volunteers often don’t This year will be my third in the may also constitute employee benefits. think about after-hours phone calls but facilitator’s role. I’m looking forward this can be very intrusive for employees to building on the relationships and Whether someone is an employee, an who need some downtime. Whether partnerships that are so critical to the independent contractor, or a volunteer managing staff or volunteers, concerns efficient delivery of local environmental has implications for insurance, leave around bullying also need to be taken initiatives. entitlements, intellectual property and seriously. Bullying falls under health and superannuation. People may be happy to By stepping into this role I have safety legislation and includes excluding be treated as independent contractors become more confident in emphasising people from interaction. or volunteers, but if something goes the importance of supporting community wrong (for example a serious accident or Susi Johnson is the Executive Officer members to help deliver natural resource the relationship breaks down and they of the FTLA. This article is for management. Money to put trees in sue for unfair dismissal), then penalties general information only. Please the ground is important, but it’s more may apply for breach of employer duties seek specific advice for your situation. important to have the right community if they are deemed to be employees by Good sources for further information people resourced to deliver on-ground the relevant authorities. are Justice Connect, WorkSafe, works. Employing local group members Fair Work Australia and the Australian builds community capacity by giving If you are unsure into which category a Taxation Office, or call the FTLA on individuals the skills and resources to particular person falls, get legal advice, 9207 5527; or email [email protected] do more than just plant trees – another or treat them as employees with the form of community engagement. associated rights and responsibilities. Glenn Brooks-MacMillan is the Local Landcare Facilitator with the Southern Ranges Environment Alliance. For further information email Glenn at [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 23 The network values its board and recognises the importance of remaining a grass roots, community-based organisation.

Mandy Coulson, Landcare Coordinator for the Surf Coast and Inland Plains Network inspecting serrated tussock with Andrew Gray (left) and Max Coster. Planning is the key to the future for the

Surf Coast and Inland Plains Network By Mandy Coulson

Planning is a critical task for Landcare facilitators and coordinators. Planning is a way to turn our thoughts and dreams into reality. Planning can help us to embrace opportunities, increase participation in Landcare and achieve on-ground change.

The landscape of the Surf Coast and Inland plans – both essential for the organisation’s speaking at forums and, most importantly, Plains area has experienced a period of continued improvement. being there for the community. constant change mainly caused by an The network values its board and recognises Helping to create a community vision increasing population. In recent months the importance of remaining a grass roots, that will enhance, protect and rehabilitate the newly elected board of the Surf Coast community-based organisation. However, our natural resource base is very satisfying and Inland Plains Network (SCIPN) identified with the plan and an improved organisational work and gives me a great deal of the need for a solid strategic plan to gain structure in place, we can better manage enjoyment. There’s also the benefit of a better understanding of local natural the pressures and demands of the future. working alongside a truly inspiring group resource management issues and their of people. importance to the community. The role of being a Landcare coordinator for a network like SCIPN is challenging and Mandy Coulson was the winner People across each of the network’s four very diverse. of the Landcare Facilitator or Coordinator geographic areas – coastal, peri-urban, Award at the 2013 Victorian Landcare small-acreage and broad-acre farming I’m involved in writing funding applications, Awards. For further information email – provided input for the plan during collating, monitoring and reporting Mandy at [email protected] a three-hour independently facilitated project outcomes, engaging with the local workshop. From this flowed the network’s community through monthly network five-year strategic plan comprising a local news updates, website and local media catchment plan and yearly operational tasks, liaising with key stakeholders,

24 |  victorian landcare and catchment management A day in the life of a

Regional Landcare Coordinator By Jodie Odgers

It’s the middle of summer and I am relieved that we’ve managed to coordinate our meeting on a day that isn’t too hot. I am driving to Nuggetty, a small town south-west of Bendigo, with Anthony Gallacher, the facilitator of the Loddon Plains Landcare Network. We have arranged to meet with members of the Tarrangower Cactus Control Committee and the Wychitella District Landcare Group to talk about wheel cactus control. As we near our roadside meeting place I begin to notice a few wheel cactus plants along the roadside and in some paddocks. We are driving through granite country which unfortunately also means cactus country, as the plants are ideally suited to the local soil type. Ian Grenda from the Tarrangower Cactus Control Committee is waiting for us when we arrive and it isn’t long before committee members Tony and Cheryl Kane and Lee Mead join us, along with Janet Richardson and Joy Freeman from Wychitella. With more than 100 kilometres between them the groups aren’t exactly neighbours, but both share a passion for tackling wheel cactus. Wheel cactus (Opuntia robusta) is native to Mexico and has become naturalised in western and central Victoria, western New South Wales and south-eastern and eastern South Australia. It infests pastures, granite outcrops and open woodlands. The two groups are focused on tackling infestations in their own areas and have had varying levels of success. The Wychitella District Landcare Group has a long history of tackling cactus on Mount Buckrabanyule Ian Grenda from the Tarrangower Cactus Control Committee. The committee is trialling the use of cochineal beetles to control wheel cactus around Nuggetty. and is looking to spark interest in a renewed push to control outbreaks of the cactus that have exploded on the mountain since the wet years of 2010–2011. to share their stories and experiences, talk the wheel cactus in South Australia. The about what has worked for them, discuss Wychitella District Landcare Group is now The Tarrangower Cactus Control what hasn’t worked so well and identify working with the Loddon Plains Landcare Committee and their ‘cactus warriors’ are opportunities to work in partnership. Network on a renewed push in their area continuing to tackle the problem through and they are hoping that the beetle will be regular working bees and they are always The meeting has also provided the another control measure that they can use. looking for new opportunities to recruit Wychitella District Landcare Group with A successful day at the Landcare coalface. landholders and get school groups and another weapon in their arsenal to control volunteers involved with their crusade. wheel cactus. Janet and Joy are taking For more information on this project go to home a box of cochineal beetles that the www.cactuswarriors.org and www.lpln.org Supporting and facilitating meetings like Tarrangower committee has been trialling this is an important part of the role of both Jodie Odgers is the Regional Landcare on three sites around Nuggetty. regional and local Landcare facilitators and Coordinator for the North Central CMA. coordinators. Bringing groups together that The beetle is a biological control agent For further information email Jodie at have been working in isolation enables them that has had success in inhibiting growth of [email protected]

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 25 Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Coordinators

Glenelg Hopkins attending. Discussions focused on An occupational health and safety plan has Eight groups/networks in the region have Indigenous engagement with Landcare, been produced for groups and networks been successful in obtaining Victorian developing a regional Landcare weed plan, to help them keep up to date with legal Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative (VLLFI) a soil mapping and monitoring project with requirements and safety issues. A successful assistance. The groups are: Basalt to the University of Ballarat and implementing and well-attended community natural Bay Landcare Network, Beyond Bolac the Landcare GPS and MapInfo program resource management meeting of network Community Action Group, Hamilton to promote the benefits of regional tools chairs, coordinators and facilitators was held Railway Consortium, Making a Difference for collecting spatial data. in Benalla and Trawool respectively. We to the Merri at Warrnambool, Panyyabyr The field trips included an opportunity to have also been promoting the Victorian Landcare Group, Tarragal Landcare Group, learn about the marine environment on Landcare Grants through local media. Upper Mount Emu Creek Landcare Swan Bay from a canoe and a farm walk Network and the Upper Hopkins Land For further information contact on one of our own Landcare coordinator’s Management Group. Tony Kubiel on 5761 1619. properties. Cam Nicholson led a walk The region’s VLLFI facilitators have around his 320-hectare sheep and beef East Gippsland provided a real boost for their local farm where he talked about improving soil Of the 2.2 million hectares in the region Landcare communities. The CMA works function and the outcomes of 30 years of 20 per cent is freehold. This land hosts rich closely with the facilitators providing maps, soil testing and grazing management. agricultural and horticultural industries. The feedback on funding applications and rest of the region is largely State forests For further information contact training opportunities as well as providing and national parks. The Landcare groups Tracey McRae on 5232 9100. some funds for projects. and networks in the region embrace the Goulburn Broken stewardship of these natural resources and Groups have finalised their projects for the Supporting the region’s group and network also play a big role in bringing the isolated 2012-2013 State Government’s Victorian facilitators is an ongoing priority in the and remote communities together. Landcare Grants. Works totalling $620,000 Goulburn Broken. were completed. A full report is available in My role as Regional Landcare Coordinator the region’s Landcare report card which is A successful Indigenous Engagement is to support Landcare to make these available from the CMA. workshop for Landcare support staff things happen. This involves support for was held in Benalla last December. our Landcare staff and for volunteers. For further information contact Aboriginal Landcare Facilitator Brendon By providing facilitation, governance and Tony Lithgow on 5571 2526. Kennedy and Yorta Yorta representatives cultural awareness training for our local Corangamite discussed Indigenous site recognition and Landcare staff they are better equipped to The region’s Landcare Support Plan methods of engaging with local Aboriginal assist their groups and networks. has recently been completed. A key communities. Administering funding is another critical action is to continue to support the 12 The CMA’s Community Natural Resource role. When funding is in place and being Landcare networks to share knowledge Management Action Plan has been managed efficiently groups and networks and experiences through networking, completed and approved and will soon be are able to get on with their projects and training and planning opportunities and to launched. The survey and development on-ground activities. introduce new and innovative programs. of the Annual Landcare Report Card for I’m also available to help with guidance The Corangamite coordinators group held 2012-13 for the region has also been and encouragement across the region and a two-day team meeting at Queenscliff undertaken with the report distributed in to make sure the efforts of the Landcare in December, with 18 Landcare staff February 2014. community are recognised and celebrated. The regional Landcare awards and care days are good opportunities for people to socialise and reflect on what they have achieved. For further information contact Amanda Bartkowski on 5150 3851. West Gippsland The South Gippsland Landcare Network (SGLN) has been very active. A Blackberry Blitz Forum was held at Mt Best Hall in February. The forum included case studies, techniques and strategies to tackle blackberries even in the most inaccessible places. The SGLN Healthy Soils – Sustainable Farms Project is assisting farmers to access and make sense of the latest soil science. The project involves identifying soil constraints within the production system, The Corangamite Landcare Coordinators Working Group at a farm walk on the Nicholson property implementing best practice and trialling on the Bellarine Peninsula in December 2013. innovative approaches. There is also

26 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Coordinators

support for the development of nutrient, erosion and soil management plans. Two fox action groups are being formed in coastal areas of Corner Inlet. SGLN is seeking expressions of interest from landowners in adjoining areas to work together over six months to tackle foxes on their properties trialling an action-learning process. Trial participants will go on a boat trip with Parks Victoria to Dream Island – a fox-free environment, in November 2014. For further information contact Phillip McGarry on 1300 094 262. North East Minister for Environment and Climate Uncle Bill Nicholson takes local Landcare support staff to Bolin Bolin Billabong to learn about Change Ryan Smith launched the region’s its significance to the Wurundjeri people. Landcare Support Plan at Baranduda in December 2013. The plan outlines the key two new CMA recruits. Regional Landcare Throughout 2013 a review and renewal priorities for CMA Landcare support in the Facilitator Karen Thomas will work with of the Mallee Regional Landcare Support region from 2013–2015. The launch took agricultural industry groups and Regional Strategy for 2013–18 was completed. This place in conjunction with the launch of the Indigenous Facilitator Rhys Collins will work strategy is the cornerstone of the Mallee Victorian Environmental Partnerships Program with the region’s Traditional Owner groups. Landcare program and helps define the funded Northern Eco-Connections project. Landcare groups’ purpose and direction for For further information contact the next five years. Key priorities for the plan include delivery Doug Evans on 8781 7920. The strategy builds on the capacity of of training, developing tools to help groups Wimmera plan, recording achievements, reporting community, volunteer-based natural The recent Grampians northern complex and promoting Landcare activity and resource management groups and enhances fire sadly caused large scale damage to achievements. their ability to deliver long-term, lasting Landcare work delivered over many years change, not only to their local environment, The region’s Landcare Report Card for by Laharum Landcare Group and other but also their local community’s well-being 2012-13 was released in February by local groups. Junior Landcare revegetation and future prosperity. the CMA. The achievements listed in the sites and soil health trials were affected report include over $1.4m gained from all and local Landcarers expect significant For further information contact investors, and more than 2500 participants impacts on threatened species in the Kevin Chaplin on 5051 4344. at more than 80 community-led events. area. Landcare groups on the northern North Central Wimmera plains have also faced challenges For further information contact The CMA hosted a successful Future with major fires this year. Tom Croft 02 6043 764. Farming Expo in Maryborough for farmers Landcare has a vital role to play in bushfire and landholders in March. With a theme Port Phillip and Westernport recovery across the region. The Regional of inspiring innovation, the expo focused Local Landcare support staff gained great Landcare Coordinator is providing guidance on the future of Australian agriculture and insights into Indigenous culture at a recent and strategic support to local Landcare included demonstrations on visual soil workshop organised by the CMA’s Regional facilitators and volunteers to help attract assessment, propagating native plants and Landcare Coordinator, Doug Evans, in optimising livestock nutrition. partnership with the Victorian Aboriginal resources to the region to deal with these Landcare Facilitator, Brendon Kennedy. pressing challenges. The region’s Landcare team partnered Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Bill Nicholson Workshops have been held on post-fire with the Loddon Plain Landcare Network delivered the poignant and engaging pest and weed management and groups to hold an on-farm composting field day at workshop. across the Wimmera are banding together Yarrawalla in March. Farmers who attended to support one another. the field day learnt how to undertake Recently secured Australian Government on-farm composting to improve crop yield Regional Delivery funding will enable the Many Landcarers across the region are and pasture productivity. CMA to provide ongoing support over five looking forward to a major regional Landcare The CMA’s Landcare newsletter, North years to targeted Landcare groups. Focused celebration in Horsham in early April. on helping groups to design high quality Central Chat, continues to grow its biodiversity projects, the support will be For further information contact distribution list. Each month the newsletter delivered by the CMA’s two new Sustainable Joel Boyd on 5382 1544. features contributions from the community, Land Management Coordinators, Anthony Landcare news, Waterwatch updates, local Dufty and Sarah Halligan. Mallee and statewide events, training, resources It’s been a hot start to 2014 in the Mallee, and funding opportunities. Anthony and Sarah will also be working but this hasn’t deterred our local Landcare with farmers on the adoption of sustainable groups from being ready to once again To subscribe and for further information agricultural practices, complemented by undertake some really positive projects. contact Jodie Odgers on 5440 1883.

Autumn 2014 issue 60 | 27 In brief

North East CMA rolls out Landcare number plates The North East CMA has recently fitted specialty Landcare number plates to its vehicle fleet to help promote Landcare in the region. Chief Executive Neil McCarthy said the CMA has had a long and productive relationship with Landcare and related community groups. “It is important that the CMA shows its support for Landcare. The use of Landcare number plates is a simple but important way of demonstrating this and reminding us that we are part of a bigger community of passionate people,” said Neil. “It is a commitment we wish to make by having 24 of our vehicles fitted with the specialty Landcare number plates.” The Landcare number plates were developed, and are administered, by the Members of the Frayne College Student Sustainability Group with Minister for Environment South Gippsland Landcare Network. and Climate Change Ryan Smith during the launch of the North East CMA’s Landcare Support Proceeds from the sale of the plates go Plan at Baranduda last December. to Landcare projects in South Gippsland. For more information or to purchase a number plate please contact Jenny to twenties and thirties we are interested Carrie Tiffany, editor O’Sullivan by email at [email protected] in hearing the experiences of your groups Victorian Landcare and Catchment and networks on engaging young people Management Magazine Next issue – young Landcare in Landcare. The next issue of the magazine will PO Box 1135, Mitcham North 3132 feature stories on involving young people Contributions to the next issue should be Phone: 0405 697 548 in Landcare. From toddlers to teenagers sent to the editor by Friday 6 June 2014. Email: [email protected]

The Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine is published by the Victorian Government Department of Environment and Primary Industries 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 and to receive your copy via email alert Contact Farm Tree & Landcare Association Phone: 9207 5527 Fax: 9207 5500 Email: [email protected] Read the magazine online Back issues of the Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine can be found at www.landcarevic.net.au/resources/magazine/vic The print size of the magazine can be enlarged online for easier reading.

Published on 100% recycled and recyclable paper 28 |  victorian landcare and catchment management VICTORIAN

Winter 2014 Issue 61 & Catchment Management

YOUNG LANDCARE FEATURE Junior Landcare Mallee style Geocaching by the bay Japanese researchers inspired by Landcare Victorian Landcare and Catchment Management

W int e r 2 0 1 4 I s s u e 6 1 Contents

03 From the Minister

5 04 A working Landcare holiday for international student volunteers The Tarragal Landcare Group, west of Portland, has been hosting students from universities and colleges in the United States and Canada to assist them with environmental projects.

06 Junior Landcare – Mallee style Junior Landcare has been a focus for reinvigorating Landcare groups in the Mallee. Kevin Chaplin reports.

11 Urban Landcare group a focus for younger folk in Stawell Young mum Angela Baker reports on the activities of the Stawell Urban Landcare Students’ sustainable garden design Group. competition entries were displayed at Horsham’s major shopping centre. 14 Somerville students repair a wetland and restore community The students of Somerville Secondary College on the Mornington Peninsula have taken on the responsibility of educating their peers and the local community 12 about the Yumarrala wetland.

16 M elton community works with youth to transform a local creek Involving young people in the rehabilitation of the Toolern Creek has been a successful environmental and community building initiative in Melton.

18 Japanese researchers inspired by Landcare Young people leaving rural areas and moving to the city is a problem in rural Japan as well as in Australia.

22 A round the State Find out what’s happening in Landcare across Victoria.

The Trees for Mum planting at Red Cliffs was a wonderful opportunity to honour mums who have passed away as well as those still alive.

© The State of Victoria Department of Environment Disclaimer and Primary Industries 2014. This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee 14 that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and This work is licensed under a Creative Commons therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or Attribution 3.0 Australia licence. You are free to re-use other consequence which may arise from you relying the work under that licence, on the condition that you on any information in this publication. credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does Editorial Advisory Committee not apply to any images, photographs or branding, Anita van Rooyen Landcare Australia Limited, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Tracey Koper Victorian Catchment Management Government logo and the Department of Environment and Council, Ugo Mantelli DEPI, Susi Johnson FTLA, Primary Industries logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit John Robinson DEPI. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au/deed.en Editorial contributions Printed by Print Dynamics, Waverley. Carrie Tiffany, PO Box 1135, ISBN 1327 5496 Mitcham North 3132 Phone 0405 697 548 E-mail: [email protected] Accessibility If you would like to receive this publication in an alternative Cover photograph Looking after the wetland is integrated across format, please telephone the DEPI Customer Service Centre Alice Van Dam (3) enjoyed the Trees for Mum the whole curriculum at Somerville Secondary on 136186, email [email protected], or via the planting event at Woodend on Mother’s Day. National Relay Service on 133 677 www.relayservice.com.au. Photograph by Kim Selby. College: Courtney helps out with revegetation. This document is also available on the internet at www.landcarevic.net.au/resources/magazine/vic

2 | victorian landcare and catchment management From the Minister

This edition covers two areas very important practices as part of the Victorian to supporting community and volunteer to me – youth and the environment. It’s great Government’s $8.3 million expansion of groups like Landcare that are vital to to see how communities are linking them the Resource Smart AuSSI Vic program. delivering the best outcomes for our together to deliver positive environmental This is another great initiative that teaches environment. In the Victorian State outcomes and supporting young Victorians children how to be more environmentally Budget I was very pleased to announce to have healthy, active and fulfilling lives. friendly and has reached more than 1000 $5.5 million over the next two years to primary and secondary schools across provide continued support for the Victorian Young people play a vital role in building a our great state. Following the success of Landcare Program, which includes funding better and more vibrant Victoria and many the program’s expansion to nine early for the 10 CMA-based Regional Landcare of the stories demonstrate the successful childhood centres, next year is set to be Coordinators and two theme-based partnership between schools, youth groups an even bigger one for the program with statewide Landcare facilitator roles. and Landcare. plans for further rollout. These positions provide vital support for From families planting trees on Mother’s the Landcare community across the state, September will be a huge month for Day, to college students from North as they enable groups and networks to Landcare groups (and I don’t mean America working with the Tarragal plan and deliver benefits for our local AFL finals!) as Melbourne gets ready Landcare Group, this edition features landscapes now and into the future. to welcome the Landcare community many great opportunities for young people at the 2014 National Landcare Lastly, thank you to all our Landcare who are getting involved in Landcare and Conference. I look forward to meeting groups and networks for your contribution strengthening their sense of responsibility you and showcasing Victoria’s Landcare to the state’s environmental knowledge, towards their local landscape. the lasting benefits you bring to our achievements. Congratulations and good environment and the difference you This includes Catherine Arnold from luck to all our bright Victorian finalists who make to our local communities. Somerville Secondary College on the have been nominated for the National Mornington Peninsula who shares Landcare Awards. The Awards gala dinner her story of how her school adopted will be a fabulous night and a great way and rehabilitated a local wetland. to wrap up day two of the conference. Congratulations to all involved in this It will bring together nationwide finalists, great program. To see the wetland now and regardless of the outcome, our integrated across the school’s curriculum environment is the real winner from your dedication and hard work. is a fantastic outcome. The Hon. Ryan Smith M.P. Also in this edition we hear about kinder I also take this opportunity to reaffirm Minister for Environment and kids who are learning about sustainable the Victorian Government’s commitment Climate Change

2014 National Landcare Conference and Awards

Registrations are now open for what promises to be an engaging and diverse National Landcare Conference in Melbourne from September 17 – 19, at the Crown Conference Centre.

The first day of the three-day conference will comprise 12 full-day field trips and an afternoon field trip, that showcase Landcare projects across Victoria. The National Landcare Awards gala dinner will be held at the Royal Exhibition Building.

For registrations and full program details go to www.nationallandcareconference.floktu.com

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 3 International student volunteers have been assisting the Tarragal Landcare Group with environmental projects for the past five years. A working Landcare holiday

for international student volunteers By Gary Milich

For the past five years the Tarragal The students come with a range of surf on the huge sand hills close to Landcare Group, located west of Portland, backgrounds from locations all over Portland. This is a highlight for everyone, has hosted a group of international student America and Canada and are keen to with lots of spills and laughs. Finally the volunteers to assist with environmental share their way of life with Landcare group volunteers share an evening dinner with projects. The program offers students members. One volunteer spoke seven the landowners whose farms they have from universities and colleges in the United languages fluently and while training to be worked on. This ranges from a restaurant States and Canada a chance to spend a doctor had assisted in providing medical meal to lamb cooked on a spit at a local two weeks working on an Australian care at several natural disasters in foreign shearing shed. environmental project followed by two countries. Another had just left the army weeks touring the east coast of Australia. after being a prison guard in Afghanistan Feedback from the volunteers has been and a girl with a native American that while they enjoy all the tourist activities The program has allowed the Tarragal background shared her culture. along the coast the highlight of the program Landcare Group to successfully apply is meeting local Landcarers, being invited for funding on behalf of landowners that They are keen to learn more about into their homes, and learning about the has resulted in over 60,000 trees being Australia and our way of life and the Australian way of life on the land. planted. The volunteers have also built Landcare group organises as many 197 nest boxes for sugar gliders and ringtail Australian experiences as possible. The students are provided with a possums and carried out substantial weed These included a football match, showing DVD containing a photographic record eradication work. the students native birds and animals of their two-week stay. The volunteers and giving them an opportunity to shear are supported by an experienced leader Tarragal volunteers complete all of the a sheep and enjoy billy tea and damper who works closely with the Tarragal preparation work for the projects and train around a campfire. Morning tea is always project coordinator throughout the the student volunteers in the skills required. a selection of Australian treats including project. It is an enriching experience They have proven to be incredibly pavlova, Anzac biscuits and lamingtons. for both parties. enthusiastic young people who take pride in the positive impact they have made Celebrating what has been achieved is Gary Milich is the secretary of the to the environment. Even when moving important. After spending two weeks Tarragal Landcare Group. For further between several sites in one day they are together Tarragal Landcare Group information contact Gary by email able to plant and guard 2000 trees. members teach the students to sand at [email protected]

4 | victorian landcare and catchment management Sustainable garden designer inspires youngsters By Wendy McInnes

The Wimmera Landcare team and Attendees were inspired by Johnson’s Wimmera CMA ran a successful family story, which focused on how he draws event in Horsham in April that used an inspiration from nature to create innovative approach to raising the profile landscape designs to suit Australia’s of sustainability, the environment and the natural environment. opportunities for community action. Community partnerships played a key role Phillip Johnson explained how the Wimmera International award-winning sustainable in this success. The venue was provided by landscape was the inspiration for his Chelsea landscape designer Phillip Johnson spoke Holy Trinity Lutheran School in Horsham, Flower Show winning garden design at a with passion about this work and the with catering by volunteer members of Landcare family event in Horsham in April. principles underpinning it at the event. the local migrant family support group Phillip won the best-in-show award at OASIS Wimmera. Local artist Lynette last year’s Chelsea Flower Show. The Moore contributed material to help with The event and student designs were Wimmera landscape was a source of promotion. McKenzie Creek woodturner so well received that Horsham’s major inspiration for his winning design. Brendan Stemp, who produced the ladder shopping centre offered to help showcase the students’ work to the public over the The family event was run in conjunction that featured in the winning Chelsea Easter holiday period. The winning student with a sustainable garden design competition design, introduced Phillip at the event designs will be used to provide inspiration for Wimmera school children. The response and spoke about their collaboration and for the rejuvenation of public land identified to this competition was overwhelming, with friendship. Halls Gap Zoo wildlife handlers by Horsham Rural City Council. more than 200 high quality student entries and Landcare presenters also attended to received. Phillip judged the student designs provide children with hands-on experience Wendy McInnes is the Horsham and met and congratulated competition with some of the local animals that will Local Landcare Facilitator. For further winners together with more than 300 benefit from urban habitat created by information email Wendy at local people who attended the event. sustainable landscape design. [email protected]

Geocaching by the bay By Liam Carroll and Barbara Jakob

S37 57.912 E145 02.959 say hello to my The Bayside Environment Friends Some of the geocaches came with little (green) friend hanging, camouflaged. Network has designed a geocaching questions about the local environment These coordinates and clues are the course for the second year in that needed to be answered. These code to help real life treasure hunters Cheltenham Park and it’s proving to included why blue tongue lizards live or geocachers find a hidden container be a successful method of getting in Cheltenham Park, Aboriginal in a local park using a global positioning teenagers to visit local parks and utilisation of the land and what the system (GPS). engage with environmental issues local blackwood trees are being used while competing and having fun. for now. The course designers hid the caches The geocaching events have been (containers to be found) within reach very successful for the network. of the paths so as to take care of the They are aimed at families with precious indigenous plants in the park. young children and teenagers and The caches were hidden in interesting have been an effective tool for locations and concealed in various ways engaging young people with the with differing degrees of difficulty. One local environment. The events have of the caches was disguised to look like encouraged a great deal of friendly part of a tree and another resemble a enthusiasm and competition from bolt in a signpost. parents and children alike. A map and scoresheet was developed Liam Carroll is a 16-year-old that showed all of the caches. The map geocaching expert and Barbara and scoresheet used quirky names, Jakob is the coordinator of the Say hello to my little (green) friend hanging, facts and helpful descriptions to ensure Bayside Environment Friends Network. camouflaged. environmental education was a focus For further information email of the activity. Barbara at [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 5 Junior Landcare – Mallee style

By Kevin Chaplin

Junior Landcare has existed in the Mallee in different forms for many years. Involving children in Landcare gives them an opportunity to spend time in the environment and discover a passion for it.

How we use our planet and its limited resources is a major focal point for learning in the classroom. At primary school level Students from the Red Cliffs Landcare Group working with visiting Chinese students on a kinaesthetic, or hands-on learning, is often revegetation project in the Millewa, west of Mildura. used as a way of gaining knowledge and this is where Junior Landcare can shine.

Schools will often have a vegetable Junior Landcare often presents activities The children really love these activities and garden, worm farm, recycling program that involve parents and other family get immense enjoyment out of eating and and revegetation activities both inside and members of students so it has an important selling their produce while learning about outside the school grounds. With a good community building function. Schools soil fertility, recycling, sustainability, healthy support network of teachers, parents, such as Tyrell College at Sea Lake and living and organic food production that community members and Landcare staff, Murrayville Community College run school reduces reliance on chemicals and artificial these programs can really flourish. farms that embrace the Landcare ethic of fertilisers. maintaining a healthy environment while The secret to success for any Junior supporting rural communities. Landcare program is the enthusiasm of a In the past children were very involved core group of individuals who are willing to with the day-to-day running of family farms keep the program’s wheels turning. In the by looking after animals and helping with case of a Junior Landcare program based seasonal work at planting and harvest within a school, teachers are the main times. This has changed. Today, farming is drivers. highly technical and mechanised and the size of individual farms is much larger so it Jane Stacey from St Mary’s Primary School At primary school level is harder for children to be involved. Junior is an enthusiastic supporter of Junior kinaesthetic, or hands-on Landcare helps break down these barriers Landcare in schools. and encourages students to see farming as “Without Landcare’s contribution and learning, is often used as an exciting and progressive career option. involvement we would simply not be a way of gaining knowledge Home-based approach able to provide such a ‘complete learning and this is where Junior Some schools in the region, such as experience’ for the students where they Manangatang P-12 College, Nyah District get to fully appreciate the environment in Landcare can shine. Primary School, St Mary’s Primary School which we live,” she said. in Sea Lake and Nangiloc Primary School, Sue Winbanks, principal at Nyah District have focused their Junior Landcare Primary School, also values Landcare. programs on sustainability in the home. Children at these schools participate in “Having access to the Junior Landcare growing organic fruit and vegetables, program provides us with information and keeping chooks to produce fertiliser and resources that really help our kids see eggs, worm farms, compost, recycling and the big picture when it comes to them revegetation. understanding their place in the world and

6 | victorian landcare and catchment management Junior Landcare – Mallee style

Werrimull students with the banner they designed for Junior Landcare in the Mallee.

how their actions, both good and bad, can teachers took on the executive roles as of the group touched on each area of the make a big difference,” she said. a temporary measure. They acted as curriculum in a holistic manner. Biology and A school Landcare group mentors to the elected student executive ecology students worked on the vegetable committee to ensure that due diligence and native garden beds, finance students Red Cliffs Secondary College took an and good governance developed while the managed the group’s finances, woodwork innovative approach to Junior Landcare operation and direction of the group was and metalwork students designed and by starting its own Landcare group. The led by the students themselves. built infrastructure such as chook sheds reasoning was that a Landcare group run and raised garden beds and graphic design by the students would provide a holistic, The Landcare group was the brainchild students produced marketing material. real world experience for their theoretical of former teacher Cheryl Bottrell. In learning. When the group first formed, accordance with Cheryl’s vision the running Using this approach almost any curriculum subject can incorporate Landcare. In particular, students completing the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning benefit from this concept as it helps them to make the real life connection between physical actions and theoretical study. The Junior Landcare program in the Mallee has shown that Landcare can be a wonderful tool for learning across all ages. Managing a committee, planning projects, sourcing funding, taking practical actions, managing publicity, monitoring and reporting are all useful, transferable skills that students can and will use for the rest of their lives. The big winner is community capacity. Students experience what it means to be a volunteer and learn how a team approach to common problems can deliver results, while being personally rewarded and fulfilled at the same time. Kevin Chaplin is the Mallee Regional Landcare Coordinator. For further information email Kevin at Landcare is integrated across the whole curriculum at Red Cliffs Secondary College. [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 7 Parents work on Landcare projects to propagate local provenance indigenous plants which are sold locally for use in environmental projects.

Penny Roberts from the Newham Landcare Group collecting indigenous seeds with students. School and Landcare partnership improves the environment and enriches learning

Newham Primary School is surrounded by nature. Sitting in the shadow of iconic Hanging Rock, the school is bordered by farms and rural holdings. It is home to 90 students and a host of animals including galahs, magpies, possums, the occasional koala and lots of bugs.

Over the years a strong environmental focus and close relationship with Landcare has helped to make Newham Primary School an example of sustainability in the local area. Partnering with Landcare The Newham and District Landcare Group was formed in 2004 and has had an association with the school since 2006. The group works to revegetate and rehabilitate land and promote sustainability in the community. By working closely with the school the group has helped to showcase the work of Landcare, as well as improving the school environmentally and aesthetically. Parents also work on Landcare projects to propagate local provenance indigenous plants which are sold locally for use in environmental projects. Money from the sale of these plants is returned to the school for use on the grounds Students from Newham Primary School revegetate the creek alongside members of the Newham and for environmental excursions and Landcare Group. presentations.

8 | victorian landcare and catchment management Students have learnt about constructing wicking garden beds, composting and when best to plant and harvest.

Younger students investigate a water bug sample from the creek.

By Sam Harrison and the Newham School and Landcare partnership improves the environment and enriches learning Primary School Writers’ Group

Waterwatch at the school creek Newham Primary School principal Julie Living more sustainably has extended A tributary of Deep Creek runs along Soutter said Waterwatch has been a very to the vegetable patch which is now one border of the school. Jenny Waugh, valuable program that has helped students part of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen a retired science teacher and trained to experience real-world learning. Garden Program. Students have learnt Waterwatch monitor, works with the about constructing wicking garden beds, “I love seeing kids out here doing real school to assess the creek. The program composting and when best to plant and science and using scientific equipment. was started with the support of the harvest. The program also helps teach It is good for the students’ understanding Landcare group and the grade 5 and 6 kitchen skills and cooking. as well as being good for the creek,” students have been testing the water in the Julie said. The school has recently committed to the creek as part of the Waterwatch program ResourceSmart AuSSI Vic initiative that for nearly eight years. Sustainable studies helps schools benefit from embedding At Newham Primary School it is not Jenny describes the site as ideal, as the sustainability in everything they do. Focusing uncommon to walk into a classroom creek runs right past the school and the on sustainability across the school will help and find a mushroom farm, or an insect students can collect water without having save on energy, water and waste bills and brought inside at the end of recess by to travel far. students will be involved in making decisions an enthusiastic student. A key focus of about sustainability on a daily basis. “Waterwatch testing is now embedded in the school’s environmental and science the school’s program and it has been an curriculum is to study the environment at Working with Landcare and the community excellent way to involve the school and the back door. A specialist teacher takes has helped everyone in the school to younger members of the community in students for weekly science lessons and the better understand the local environment. Landcare,” Jenny said. local environment is often featured in the According to Julie Soutter it really helps with understanding the local plants and “The first thing the students learn is where students’ learning. animals and how the environment works. their local creek and community fit into the Students have also worked with the landscape. Deep Creek is in the uppermost Landcare group during science classes “It’s important for kids to know about headwaters of the Maribyrnong River, so to learn about how to improve the ways to conserve the planet for future our testing provides the first set of data environment. Seeds were collected from generations.” along the course of the river to Melbourne.” indigenous plants and sown in pots, which Sam Harrison is a teacher at Newham Waterwatch also teaches students scientific were later transplanted into tubes. After Primary School and he worked with skills such as the accurate use and reading the holidays, a baby forest had sprung up. students to write this article. For more of scientific equipment, recording of These will soon be planted, adding to the information email Sam at harrison. scientific data and interpreting results. revegetation along the creek. [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 9 SEED reaches out to schools and teachers in the north east

By Linda Anania

In 2007, the School Environment Education 5 students. At smaller schools this often Directory (SEED) was established to provide includes years 3–6. teachers, educators and environment A range of activities are run during the days Students from the Benalla and Mansfield regions staff with easy access to information including learning to be waste wise; using investigate the health of their local river by identifying on curriculum-related environmental water bugs as indicators of river health; water bugs in a workshop run by the North East CMA. sustainability for north east Victoria. understanding the local catchment system The long-term vision for SEED is for and caring for waterways; the importance environmental sustainability to be a of biodiversity to the health of the planet; Website and newsletter a fundamental element of the educational working towards energy efficiency; how focus for resources experience of every child in the north traditional indigenous tools support life; and The SEED website allows teachers, east. The original idea for the project how to survive natural disasters. The days students and environment staff to easily came from a number of natural resource are run on sustainable principles. Lunch is access a huge range of sustainability educators in the region that were working rubbish-free and a drink tap water station, education resources. There is information separately to deliver education for local sponsored by the local water authority, on biodiversity, climate change, general schools. SEED was developed to provide is on hand for the students to refill their sustainability, waste and water. Many greater efficiency and the tools to disperse water bottles. units of work have been created by local information throughout the catchment. The days inform students on environmental providers and there are links to other resources from outside the region. A project officer is employed one day a issues and increase their skills and knowledge. week to facilitate the project, which is They also help to develop a network of local The website lists contact details for local funded through a partnership between environmental experts. Curriculum materials resource management people, as well as North East Victoria Regional Waste and links on the SEED website make further good places for excursions. It also refers Management Group (NevRwaste) and the activities and follow-up easier. teachers to funding and professional North East CMA. Using a website, student During SEED’s six years of operation development opportunities and highlights environment days and a newsletter, SEED 4000 primary school children and more some special projects that some of our is now the local, up-to-date, one-stop shop than 160 primary schools have attended a local schools are involved in. Around 1000 for environmental education in the region. school environment day event. people a month use the SEED website. School environment days The days involve lots of partnerships An electronic newsletter is produced Each term school environment days are between NevRwaste, the North East each term to provide an update on local organised in rotation around the seven CMA and local groups. The host shire is activities. The newsletter has information different municipalities in the north east. also often involved supplying venues, risk about events, new resources, training Local environmental organisations present management advice and helping to source and funding opportunities and local hands-on sustainability activities to year presenters and equipment. competitions. The newsletter, website and student environment days are provided to schools free of charge. Although much of the website refers to north east Victoria anyone interested in environmental education can use it. Linda Anania is the SEED project officer. For further information go to the SEED website at www.seed.vic.gov.au or email Linda at [email protected]

Comments from students after the environment day: “That was awesome.” “I learnt a lot of new stuff.” “The activities were really good fun.” “I didn’t know all that about a Students from the Tallangatta and Corryong regions learn about recycling with Kim Mueller platypus. It was great.” from NevRwaste at the Tallangatta student environment day in March.

10 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Urban Landcare group a focus for younger folk in Stawell By Angela Baker

I grew up in Stawell in western Victoria and moved back home three years ago after nine years in Melbourne. I have a young baby and live with my partner in a straw bale house on a small property on the outskirts of town. I’m passionate about caring for the land and sharing nature with people and have become an active member of the Stawell Urban Landcare Group.

The group has been a great way to meet educating about the changed landscape due bringing wildlife back to the property. people with similar interests. I’ve gained to human activity – largely gold mining and On National Tree Planting Day in 2011 we new skills and learnt a lot about our local more recently recreational activities. were fortunate to have the local childcare area from other group members and special I love leading these walks. I’m able to share my centre come and plant native trees on our guests who have attended our meetings. knowledge of the beautiful local environment property. These local children will be able It’s been terrific to contribute to improve through experiential learning. I tell stories and to watch our bare paddock transform into the landscape and our community show the children how inappropriate use a beautiful forest in the years to come. through the many working bees and land of the forest like rubbish dumping affects it. management activities that we’ve organised The walks help the children to appreciate As part of the Landcare group’s activities and run. I’ve taken part in litter clean ups, nature – especially the ironbark forest which we held an open kitchen garden day last guided nature walks, track maintenance is close to where we live. year where we opened our garden to the and tree planting. I’m on the committee for community. It was a dream come true for I try to practise what I preach at home the group and enjoy planning our activities. me to be able to share my passion with through using sustainable living practices in It’s also a great deal of fun and I’ve made others. I’m looking forward to continuing our daily lives. We have planted hundreds some wonderful friends. my work with the Stawell Urban Landcare of native trees as a wind break and wildlife Group and to involving my son in our One of my favourite activities is the guided habitat around the perimeter of our activities as he grows up. nature walks we conduct with local primary property and are aiming to grow as many school students in the spring. We take grade edible plants as we can. So far we’ve Angela Baker is the president of the 3 and 4 students into the local box ironbark planted more than 60 fruit and nut trees, Stawell Urban Landcare Group. forest explaining aspects of the forest, the grapevines and a large vegetable garden. For further information email Angela history of the area, as well as observing and We are slowly creating a food forest and on [email protected]

Angela Baker and her son Jerome are reaping the rewards of a large kitchen garden on their property at Stawell.

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 11 Mother’s Day planting honours

mums with a legacy of trees By Jodie Odgers

When Angela Van Dam was 30 she never imagined her wedding day without her mother’s guidance, or becoming a mum herself and not having her own mother’s love, support and advice. To lose a parent at any age is incredibly tough. When Angela lost her mother in 2008 she knew she had to do something positive to make DEPI staff visited the 2013 Trees for Mum planting at Woodend. Mother’s Day a day of celebration.

Angela and her husband Jason were “It’s incredible to think we have reached so Woodend event is part of living in Sydney in 2011 when they read many people and they are so grateful for the the town’s calendar about Trees for Mum in the local paper. opportunity to nurture the environment and Angela Van Dam is now the Trees for Trees for Mum is a series of free national create living and growing legacies for their Mum Event Co-ordinator for Woodend. Landcare events inviting children of all wonderful mothers,” she said. The event is in its third year in Woodend ages to celebrate their mothers by planting trees. Angela and Jason planted in memory of Angela’s mother and to honour Jason’s mother in Victoria. It was a very special time for Angela as her daughter was born just a few weeks later. “My mum was a passionate gardener and lover of nature. Because of Trees for Mum I now look forward to Mother’s Day. It’s been a great way of helping others to find a way to make the day a tiny bit less painful,” says Angela. A tribute and a celebration Trees for Mum was started in Sydney in 2002 by friends and colleagues Deena Raphael and Lauren Adlam. It was a way of paying tribute to their mothers, who they had both lost to cancer. The first event was a huge success, attracting over 150 people to Manly to plant commemorative trees. In the 12 years since Trees for Mum was created, more than 35,000 sons and daughters have planted trees for their mums, as a tribute to mums who have passed away or to celebrate those who are still alive. Trees for Mum partnered with Landcare Australia in 2012. Founder Lauren Adlam has been inspired by the feedback that has been received. Angela and Jason Van Dam with daughter Alice plant a tree in memory of Alice’s grandmothers.

12 |  victorian landcare and catchment management My mum was a passionate gardener and lover of nature. Because of Trees for Mum I now look forward to Mother’s Day.

Kristy Woodhouse and her mum Bernadette Cossar with Isla and baby Joel at the Trees for Mum planting day at Woodend.

and has become part of the town’s event “Trees for Mum has given me a real Jodie Odgers was the North Central CMA calendar attracting around 200 people each purpose on Mother’s Day and a wonderful Regional Landcare Coordinator. For further year. connection to my community through information contact Angela Van Dam by Landcare,” Angela said. email at [email protected] The project has been funded through the or Facebook www.facebook.com/treesformum State Government’s Victorian Landcare Grants, and there is no cost to participate. People who sign up for the Trees for Mum mailing list are added to the Woodend Landcare blog so they can keep up to date From the Trees for Mum Facebook page: with local Landcare events. According to Angela, Trees for Mum has “You gave our family a beautiful way to “Just wanted to say what a special created its own community. remember our much missed and loved time we had at the tree planting today. We are now left with a lovely memory “This year we had families from mum, mother in law, grandmother and surrounding towns and Melbourne come a special place near to us that we can of doing something extra special for for a day trip to plant in Woodend and visit to remember her. I was totally our mums who are no longer with us.” they are keen to come again next year.” taken aback at the depth of emotion “A tree planted for my gorgeous I felt for not just our family, but for the Trees for Mum is also underway in the mum today; a positive thing to do other families around us. It was like Goulburn Broken region through the on a tough day.” Goulburn Murray Landcare Network. a tonne of love was planted with A mums-without-mums support group each of those trees. Thank you once “My dear mum passed away in March is keen to set up an event in Echuca again. We will be back next year.” and I was at a real loss at what to next year and another in the Yarra Valley. do on Mother’s Day. I put a card “I celebrated my first Mother’s Day The recent Woodend planting received under the mulch and some lovely extensive media coverage, including a live as a new mum and planted with my chrysanthemums, and it all felt so broadcast on ABC television and radio. mum in memory of my grandmother. good. Thanks so much again. I have a There is interest in creating a Melbourne- I was joined by my brother and sister feeling this might become an annual based event in 2015. and their partners and it was a really thing for me.” Angela Van Dam is indebted to Trees special day for our whole family.” for Mum founders Lauren Adlam and Deena Raphael.

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 13 A community planting day at the Yumarrala wetland in November 2013. Somerville students repair a wetland and restore community

A local wetland has become a source of pride and learning for students at Somerville Secondary College on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. College students from years 7–12 are actively involved in all aspects of environmental rehabilitation at the formerly degraded site.

The young people have worked Students work as with the Mornington Peninsula Shire mentors and educators Rangers and the wetlands organisation, Along with improving their own skills and Environmental Restorations, on flora knowledge about the environment the species education and collecting seed for students have become peer educators. indigenous plants which are propagated They have shared their knowledge with at the school. Students are now planting the community, ranging from three-year- 5000 seedlings in the first stage of old kindergarten children through to elderly revegetation at the site. residents of local nursing homes. Students have been able to The students have developed The project has allowed students to environmental learning resources such as apply real-world knowledge get out of the classroom and has been posters for primary school students and an opportunity to reinvigorate learning – to a project that they are games and flashcards for kinder kids. always a challenge for those disengaged in charge of. with normal schooling. Students have One of the greatest challenges has been been able to apply real-world knowledge to address the public perception of the site to a project that they are in charge of. as a dumping ground, four wheel drive track and dog park. The students were Each graduating class hands the project disheartened when they had to repair and knowledge base over to the upcoming damage at the site so they decided to students and teachers. There has been tackle the source of the problem rather immense pride when the knowledge than the consequences. After a concerted surrounding the project is shared with publicity campaign there has been a the new students. reduction in the anti-social behaviours.

14 |  victorian landcare and catchment management The eventual goal is for the site to be managed sustainably by the school and the wider community.

Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning students from Somerville Secondary College hard at work at the Yumarrala wetland.

Somerville students repair a wetland and restore community By Catherine Arnold

In 2012, the students were given students preparing to enter the workforce The partnerships and mentorships from permission by Wurundjeri elder to develop their employability skills. these organisations have been critical Murrindindi to adopt the name Yumarrala They have produced newsletters and for the project. They work side by side for the site. Yumarrala means ‘to share’. distributed them to the community through with students but allow them to maintain letterbox drops, while honing their public ownership and control. The eventual goal is for the site to be speaking skills at many different forums. managed sustainably by the school and A cross-age mentorship with the the wider community. The students are To improve their knowledge of best Somerville Tyabb Men’s Shed is a good working to form a Friends of Yumarrala practice students met with management example. Members have been assisting group comprising students, teachers, staff for other regional wetlands. Team students with building bird hides, residents, community organisations and members also interviewed Peninsula Link boardwalks and viewing platforms. businesses, supported by the shire council. freeway construction management to The project benefits both parties. discuss their commitment to preserving The students learn from the practical A focus for learning and the local environment. developing employability skills skills and experience of the older men, The wetland project has been incorporated Students also created and ran a community while they in turn enjoy the enthusiasm into many different streams of the survey to seek input into the potential of the students and feel valued for their college curriculum. Victorian Certificate Indigenous options for the naming of contribution to the community. the site. An increased awareness of Indigenous of Applied Learning (VCAL) students use the The Yumarrala wetlands project has history and culture then led to the creation project in their literacy, numeracy, work- seen the integration of environmental of an artwork displayed at the site depicting related skills and personal development education into all aspects of the college the landscape before European settlement. subjects. Victorian Certificate of Education curriculum and has allowed every students of biology, chemistry, environmental Partnerships and mentorships student to contribute to an improved studies and outdoor education use the site to essential to success local environment. It is an environmental apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting. The project has attracted the ongoing project, but it is also a community support of a range of organisations All of the college students at other building project. The idea of community including Melbourne Water, Mornington levels explore environmental awareness sustainability has always been at the Peninsula Shire Council, Transfield, through the pastoral care program and heart of the project’s success. Leighton Contractors, Ingham’s the student leaders of the college have Enterprises, Bunnings, Westernport Catherine Arnold is the Senior Pathways/VCAL recently formed a Student Environment Biosphere Reserve, Wetlands and Coordinator at Somerville Secondary College. Team as a focus for activities. Wildlife Creations, Vision Stream, NAB For further information email Catherine at The project has also helped senior and Port Phillip and Westernport CMA. [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 15 Melton community works with youth – to transform a local creek

Thousands of motorists drive past Toolern Creek along the Western Highway at Melton every day. The creek is virtually the only part of Melton visible from the highway. For many years the creek frontage was a neglected stretch of land in the shadow of the highway overpass; a focus for anti-social activity and vandalism and a site for dumping rubbish.

Melton local Lyn Holdsworth became so Intensive revegetation work has been Local schools also send students to help. incensed that the highly visible site was done over the last few years by the Friends As well as restoring the environment it giving such a poor impression of Melton group. Local indigenous plants have been gives the children a connection with the that she decided to do something about established to restore the biodiversity of creek; giving them a sense of ownership. it. Lyn began by removing rubbish herself. the site and to provide habitat for native Youths complete community work She was joined by friends who helped wildlife. A diverse group of volunteers Environmental restoration at the site has her clean-up campaign and by the Melton helps the Friends in their efforts to been greatly assisted by people engaged in Council who removed the increasing transform Toolern Creek. community work through the Department number of bags filled with rubbish. When Local scouts and guides are heavily of Justice. In 2013, a total of 852 hours of Lyn decided to form a Friends group involved. During one six-month period community work was completed at Friends community members flocked to join her. the scouts planted more than 1000 plants of Toolern Creek. Neglected site transformed and grasses as well as cleaning up the The project helps young people undertake The Friends of Toolern Creek have waterways with rubbish collection while work and achieve a sense of self-worth transformed the site. The ancient red earning their Landcare badges. as well as helping to restore the local gums leaning over the creek create an One scout leader observed: natural environment. Friends of Toolern atmosphere of tranquillity. The park is a Creek also feature in a short film by the haven for native wildlife and also creates “We dug what seemed to be one hole after Department of Justice describing work more liveable surroundings for the another, some in really easy soil, others that done by people through community work. neighbourhood. Families use the site with took huge efforts just to dig a little hole! We pride and a shared bicycle path along the had heaps of fun during our time with you The Friends group also takes a special creek is popular with both walkers and in all weather conditions and would like to interest in working with people with cyclists. say thanks very much once again.” disabilities. The group works with a variety

Youths completing community work bagging box thorn and prickly pear along Toolern Creek. Melbourne Water collected 34 bags that this group had removed.

16 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Melton community works with youth – to transform a local creek By Daryl Akers FTLA update By Susi Johnson of community groups including specialist schools, C.A.L.M – Controlling Anger and Secrets to Successful Groups training Learning to Manage it Program for young The FTLA has run five Secrets to Successful people with problems, Amaroo Men Groups training programs in 2014. Funded with Disabilities and Mambourin Men and by the Australian Government Department Women with Disabilities. of Agriculture, the training covers issues of According to Lyn Holdsworth working recruitment and succession as well as many with disabled people requires a thoughtful procedural questions. More than 50 Landcarers approach. have volunteered over 360 hours to improving the capacity and health of their groups and “When allocating jobs it’s important to suit networks after attending the training program. an individual’s level of ability, rather than focusing on their disability. Renewal reminder FTLA renewals were due on 30 June 2014. “Our disabled members perform really If you are unsure whether your group has important tasks such as registering people renewed please call the FTLA on 9207 5527 on Clean Up Australia Day, car direction or email [email protected]. In the past some at the Platypus Festival, helping with new groups have assumed they were covered members at Melton’s Djerriwarrh Festival, by the FTLA insurance and subsequently promoting the platypus puppet with discovered they were non-financial when children and adults and dressing up in the there was an incident. platypus outfit.” Insurance and young Landcarers The Friends of Toolern Creek’s annual Involving young people in Landcare activities Platypus Festival is the largest and most is a core activity for many Landcare groups successful environmental festival in the and networks. Often these activities are run region. The group was also recognised in partnership with local schools so groups when Melton was awarded the inaugural should be aware that involving young children Australian Sustainability Cities Award in on-ground projects has implications in November 2008. The award is an for insurance and safety which should be example of the cooperative work involving considered when planning suitable activities. Friends of Toolern Creek supported by the Lyn Holdsworth gets some help from local City of Melton and Melbourne Water. youngster Orion Meeson on Clean Up Most voluntary workers/personal accident Australia Day. insurance policies have age limits of 15–75 Melton is one of the fastest growing years. Groups should check with their municipalities in Victoria. In a few years, as insurer and parents should be informed of Melton develops eastwards, Toolern Creek Daryl Akers is the President of the the limits of coverage. will flow through the middle of a fast growing Melton Environment Group. For further town. The creek is already becoming an information about the Friends of The FTLA has successfully negotiated increased insurance coverage for our member groups important haven and corridor along which Toolern Creek email Lyn Holdsworth with the insurance covering people aged native wildlife, especially birds, can migrate. at [email protected] from 10–90. If groups regularly have younger children along to events then they should consider partnering with schools or other organisations such as scouts that have specifically tailored arrangements. Check with your partner organisation as to the conditions of their insurance whenever an activity is being planned. Children should always be under the supervision of a parent, guardian or teacher. If you are aware that students may be attending an activity consider having a group member with a Working with Children check as a back up, if a teacher is called away. For more information see www.workingwithchildren. vic.gov.au or call 1300 652 879. This article is for general information only. It’s important to seek specific advice for your situation. Good sources for further information are Justice Connect and the Department of Justice. Alternatively, call the Scouts working on their Landcare badge worked every second Sunday along Toolern Creek. FTLA on 9207 5527 or email [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 17 Tomomi Maekawa is impressed by the way that the Landcare network creates a structure linking different sectors of local communities including farmers and other residents, researchers, government employees and businesses.

Tomomi Maekawa and Kaz Kagohashi with staff at the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and their families. Japanese researchers inspired by Landcare

Young people leaving rural areas and for thousands of years. The most important an outsider, people might not talk to moving to the city is not just a problem in reason for the decline of traditional farming me. It is more difficult to become part Australia. Two Japanese researchers who communities, he says, is that children go of a community – there is a cultural recently visited Victoria to take a closer to the cities and do not come back. difference that we have to keep in mind when we introduce Landcare look at Landcare have confirmed that the Another problem for local farmers is in Japan. People are more reserved. most important reason for the decline of that after the Second World War, the They don’t express what they think in traditional farming communities in Japan is Japanese government encouraged farmers such a straightforward way. That is the the loss of young people to the cities. to plant cedars and Japanese cypress for norm, although it is gradually changing.” Kazuki (Kaz) Kagohashi is a Research Fellow timber production. Later the policy was at the Institute for Social Ethics at Nanzan changed and timber was imported from Kaz gave an example of a Japanese University. Tomomi Maekawa’s home is in tropical countries. Farmers no longer woman interested in organic farming Tokyo, but in 2013–14 she was studying receive income from the trees they who spoke at a village meeting about Australian Landcare at the Institute for planted, but monkeys, deer and wild pigs problems that she felt the community Land, Water and Society at Charles Sturt which once lived in the forest now come should tackle. No one openly disagreed University. into the farmers’ fields and eat their crops. with her, but after the meeting people The farmers do not have enough money spoke badly about her. They felt that Kaz is interested in how farming to build fences around their two- or women should not talk at the meeting. communities adapt to changing conditions, three-hectare holdings. According to Kaz this conservative and how researchers, government attitude is common. Kaz was impressed by the cooperative departments and rural communities can atmosphere among Landcare communities “In Australia, I have spoken to many work together more effectively. in Australia. women who are regional coordinators and With assistance from Rob Youl and they are so intellectual and open-minded! “I have a feeling that in rural Australia there Horrie Poussard from Australian Landcare They have the talent to get people is a different relationship between people. together and in Australian Landcare the International, Kaz and Tomomi toured I have found that Australian people like role of women is very important.” Victoria to meet with representatives from talking, and are open and welcoming. the CMAs and Landcare coordinators. Everybody in Landcare says the same Collaborative approach impresses Young people leaving farms thing: that Landcare provides opportunities Tomomi Maekawa is one of the founding Kaz is involved with a traditional village for people to get together. The rural areas members of the inaugural steering in Japan where people have been farming in Japan are more conservative – if I am committee for Japanese Landcare.

18 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Visiting the Yatmarone wetlands at Penshurst. From left, Tomomi Maekawa, Dave Munroe, Ewan McGregor from the New Zealand Landcare Trust, Rob Youl, Lynn Munro, Kazuki Kagohashi and Mick Seigal.

Japanese researchers inspired by Landcare By Wendy Poussard

Her ambition is to establish a Landcare attended many Landcare events and network among Japanese farmers and rural activities. Her first public speech in communities. English was at the launch of the Overseas Landcare Fund in Melbourne last year. Tomomi became interested in Landcare When she told people about the problems because she has happy memories of staying with her grandparents on their rice in Japanese communities, including the farm in the north of Japan when she was decline in the number of farmers, and the a child. ageing rural population, she was surprised to find that communities in Australia are “I want to help my grandparents and their experiencing similar problems. neighbours. I know how hard farmers work, and how they are facing a lot of Tomomi is impressed by the way problems. The farms are very small, and that the Landcare network creates a the farming communities are ageing. There structure linking different sectors of local are many concerns and disputes about land communities including farmers and other Japanese Landcare researcher Tomomi use and environmental issues.” residents, researchers, government Maekawa with her friends from Charles Sturt employees and businesses. She also University, Vijay Kuttappan and Mei Mei Meilani. As an undergraduate student Tomomi likes the way that Landcare is managed studied environmental law, but soon came collaboratively by local people. to feel that litigation is not the best way to deal with disputes at the local level, or to She is determined to work with the resolve environmental problems. Japanese steering committee to establish a Landcare network linking local individuals Professor Mick Seigel, an Australian and communities, government, businesses, teaching at Nanzan University, told her researchers and other organisations in Japan. biodiversity. Just recently I saw a beautiful about Landcare in Australia, and its success sky, purple and pink – just beautiful. I in bringing rural people together to address Tomomi is missing the Australian birds cannot see such a sky in Tokyo.” common problems and issues. now she has returned home. Wendy Poussard is a member of Australian Tomomi met with and interviewed “We don’t have such colourful parrots, Landcare International. For further Landcare members, local and regional or kookaburras. Australia has a wonderful information contact Wendy by email at facilitators and coordinators. She also variety of species and landscapes, wonderful [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 19 Landcare puppet show wins Moorabool youngsters talk Landcare young hearts and minds By Jacqui Salter Children in the Moorabool Landcare Network love getting their hands “That was the best puppet show I’ve ever seen in my life!” dirty, especially if it’s going to help the environment. Many schools in the area This was the response of an excited five-year-old boy, exiting have not formally embraced junior Landcare but they are still actively our Landcare marquee during Enviro Week at the Briars historic involved in environmental projects such as gardening, planting trees and helping homestead and park at Mt Martha on the Mornington Peninsula. adults at their working bees. Myrniong Primary School was commended in the 2012 regional My assistant puppeteer turned to me to look like an old-fashioned Punch and Landcare awards for its energy efficiency and we both grinned. We’d achieved the Judy show. Working with the Mornington and water conservation projects, delicate balance between providing an Peninsula Landcare Network secretary, school gardens supported by a student educational experience and maintaining Bernie Schedvin, and my puppeteers, garden club, vegetable growing, a nest we developed a script. engagement of our young audience. box project and helping at the annual Being asked to deliver an interactive I recruited four marvellous women to community tree planting day. 10-minute session with an environmental help, including one I discovered who Grade 6 student Blake Strangecliffe said, focus to primary-school-aged children had a childhood phobia about puppet shows. “We went to the planting day last year. was a fun challenge. As a parent of two We put together a soundtrack for the show It was nice to be part of a really large young boys, I knew children enjoy being with some lovely songs and allowed the group of people all planting trees. I think entertained and that they love animals. children lots of opportunities to participate. our school planted about a hectare. It I decided to base the show on the The responses from children during and looked great with the area all filled with importance of providing habitat for our after the show were fascinating. While trees. I am going to enjoy watching them native animals. I wanted it to make children nearly all of the children knew koalas grow. I don’t mind getting my hands laugh, but also to convey an important and wombats were native, some of dirty.” ecological message they would take away them thought foxes were native too. with them. Annabel Muir also in grade 6 has been A number of children were able to describe to three or four planting days with her I bought and borrowed a series of native the concepts of habitat and indigenous mum and dad. (possum, koala, wombat and owl) and vegetation better than most adults. By the feral (dog, cat and fox) puppets. I acquired end of the show, most children knew that “The food at the community planting a large cardboard fridge box and, with planting indigenous vegetation, keeping old day was awesome. We tried planting the help of my four-year-old, painted it trees and logs and installing nest boxes are vegetable boxes last year but it was a helping to provide habitat. bit of a disaster as our soil was no good. We have better soil this year. We are The puppet show has since been also going to plant some fruit trees but performed for children at a school, a kinder I’m not sure what types we are going to and a district show. At each performance get,” Annabel said. I’ve been impressed by the children’s Jett and Finn Hehir from Bacchus Marsh strong connection with nature and their have a strong Landcare mentor as their inherent sense of right and wrong. It mother, Mel, secretary of the Friends gave me a deep sense of satisfaction to of the Werribee River (through Bacchus hear them giggling and interacting with Marsh) group formed at the end of the puppets, knowing that they will go 2012. Jett and Finn love riding their bikes home with a deeper understanding of the along the river bank trails and seeing the importance of protecting our natural areas trees they planted get bigger each time and the animals that live within them. they go to look. The puppet script is available for Jett said, “We’ve been to all of the six download from the Mornington working bees. The first time we got Peninsula Landcare Network website at some type of tongs for picking up www.portphillipwesternport.landcarevic. waste paper and planted some grasses. net.au/mornpen-network Since then we have wheelbarrowed Jacqui Salter is the Shire of Mornington mulch and spread it, pulled weeds, and Peninsula Landcare Facilitator. Her position fixed up tree guards when they were is funded through the Victorian Local knocked over.” Landcare Facilitator Initiative. Local Landcare facilitator Jacqui Salter in For more information email Jacqui at her fridge box puppet theatre. [email protected]

20 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Moorabool youngsters talk Landcare By Max Coster

According to Finn it’s mostly fun at the By Emma Bennett working bees. “We’re helping nature and protecting the environment.” Students from Warrenheip Primary School have been planting trees to help koalas in the area. Local resident and organiser of a tree planting day on a local farm Eve Hay said the students planted around 600 trees. “The kids were great. They got stuck in Ingrid Hulsman from Cardigan-Windermere Landcare Group presents Yuille Park Community once they were shown what to do and College principal Clete Paige and students (left to right) Chloe, Jayden, Joel and Alex with the first seemed to love getting their hands dirty. of 300 silver banksia to be planted at the proposed environmental education centre. We had a talk about identifying individual koalas recently and the students at the school are helping record sightings on a national database. There was great Landcare group partners with community excitement in the room as the children drew the faces of koalas, noting the college to create environment centre By Emma Bennett changes in pigmentation across their noses around the nostrils.” The Upper Mount Emu Creek Landcare Silver banksia is in decline in western Victoria Max Coster is the Landcare Network is fostering an exciting project that and is indigenous to the Windermere area. Facilitator for the Moorabool is seeing Cardigan-Windermere Landcare The seed orchard at the school will become Landcare Network. His position is Group teaming up with the Yuille Park a valuable asset for silver banksia restoration funded through the Victorian Local Community College to lay the foundations for programs and will allow students to collect Landcare Facilitator Initiative. For an environmental education campus. seed, establish seedlings and have them available for revegetation projects and for further information contact Max by The college is an award winning state sale to the public. email at [email protected] school catering for children from the age of 5–17 who have become disengaged The environmental education centre will from mainstream schooling or have be managed by Yuille Park Community been nominated through the court College and will be a registered junior system. Children at Yuille Park face Landcare site set up like a camp and many challenges in life, but the school available for public schools to visit and offers them opportunities to become utilise. The site adjoins the Burrumbeet engaged and passionate about their Creek, which is currently undergoing a areas of interest. clean up by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA to remove weeds. The creek forms The curriculum at Yuille Park is holistic and channels through wide flood plains at the tailored for each individual. The students site and provides an ideal location for are given opportunities to learn meaningful water monitoring, restoration works and skills to equip them for a future in the expansion of the seed orchard. workforce. The school even boasts a café staffed by students that’s open to the In addition to learning these essential public. The plan to include environmental Landcare revegetation skills, students education into the curriculum has been will also be able to experience animal welcomed by students, the local Landcare husbandry with plans to produce eggs and group and the broader community. milk to service the school café, as well as a range of practical environmental programs. The school is hoping to acquire the vacant Windermere Primary School site, just 15 There is still much work to be done to make the project happen, but there’s minutes up the road from Yuille Park, as a great deal of community support and Finn, Mel and Jett Hehir monitor their an environmental education centre and enthusiasm for it to succeed. revegetation work on the Werribee River. to bring the heritage listed buildings back Students from Warrenheip Primary School to life. Land adjoining the school is being Emma Bennett is the Upper Mount have planted 600 trees to help koalas in leased from a local farmer and Cardigan- Emu Creek Landcare Facilitator. Her their local area. Windermere Landcare Group is assisting position is funded through the Victorian students to establish a silver banksia seed Local Landcare Facilitator Initiative. orchard on the site with the first trees to For further information email Emma be planted this winter. at [email protected]

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 21 Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Coordinators

Mallee The Red Cliffs and Community Landcare Group held a very successful Trees for Mum event on Mother’s Day, with over 120 people The regional Landcare team banded together to promote volunteer groups in the region with a marquee at the Mildura Field Days. There were 18 stands promoting the ‘let’s get involved’ message. Landcare will also be a focus at the Mallee Machinery Field Days to be held at Speed on 6–7 August. The event attracts thousands of visitors and the Landcare display is always popular. For further information contact Kevin Chaplin on 5051 4344. North East The CMA launched a new website in June. A Trees for Mum event organised by the Red Cliffs Landcare Group at Red Cliffs was a great The need for a single information portal success with more than 120 participants. for landholders to find key information on land management has been raised and other local networks and groups Viv worked with participants to explore frequently at CMA consultations. The new have worked hard to produce an exciting practical and immediate ways to transform website is focused on user needs and program of major community planting Landcare group meetings. contains a solutions section with answers weekends for 2014. to frequently asked questions on land For further information contact management and Landcare. Significant areas of the Wimmera were Belinda Brennan on 1300 094 262. affected by fire earlier in the year but North Central Regional Landcare Facilitators Amber Croft and good conditions through late autumn Kelly Behrens have recently launched the first The Regional Landcare Support Plan have helped set us up for some important of a series of videos on inspirational farmers 2014–18 was completed earlier this year. planting events. We hope many people in the region, now available on the Landcare The plan provides a support framework will come along and lend a hand. Details Gateway at www.landcarevic.net.au/northeast for Landcare groups across the region for are available on the Landcare Gateway. the next four years. Consistent with the Award winning landholders Chips Boucher Victorian Landcare Program Strategic Plan For further information contact and Lindsay Humphry feature in the videos (2012), it outlines the five functions of Joel Boyd on 5382 1544. along with local Landcare facilitator Belinda Landcare that the CMA will support. Pearce. West Gippsland The plan details specific support actions Representatives of the region’s five The CMA is currently working with local and will be reviewed annually to ensure Landcare networks and the CMA gathered governments and Landcare groups to the actions and targets are achievable. at Rawson in the upper catchment close support and coordinate Green Army to the Thompson reservoir and Mt Baw The North Central Waterwatch Waterbirds projects across the region. Baw in June. The two-day session focused Field Guide is a comprehensive, pocket For further information contact on future planning for Landcare and sized reference that contains all the Tom Croft on (02) 6043 7648. explored the key question of how we can information you need to know about the 74 waterbirds that live in north central Wimmera enable Landcare at the group and network level over the next couple of years. Victoria. The field guide is the third in a More than 300 locals attended our very series of guides to be published. The two successful regional Landcare celebration with All five networks are members of the previous guides were on frogs and fish. the internationally renowned sustainable GippsLandcare consortium, a partnership landscape designer Phillip Johnson in Horsham that has been going for over 10 years. The North Central Waterwatch Field Guides in April. The local Landcare community was The gathering was an opportunity to reflect and the Regional Landcare Support Plan delighted and fascinated to hear how the on achievements, maintain friendships, 2014–18 are available for download from Wimmera landscape inspired Phillip’s winning and build on the resilient and innovative the CMA website at www.nccma.vic.gov.au design at the 2013 Chelsea Flower Show. partnership that spans the region. For further information contact Project Platypus will celebrate its 20th In July the five networks and the CMA Ashley Rogers CMA on 5440 1864. anniversary later this year. This organisation partnered with facilitator Viv McWaters East Gippsland has had an enormous impact on the to conduct a series of workshops in Sale, The region has had a great start to the community and environment of the upper Warragul and Foster. The workshops were planting season with thousands of new Wimmera catchment. Project Platypus run as mid-winter social evenings where seedlings now thriving.

22 |  victorian landcare and catchment management Around the State – News from the Regional Landcare Coordinators

The Lakes Entrance Landcare Group’s women’s project – Healthy earth, healthy women, healthy communities – has been very successful at bringing women together to celebrate and restore the environment through bush tucker, singing, dancing, and tree planting activities. Snowy West Landcare Group is continuing with its restoration of the rail trail at Newmerella. Students from Orbost helped with rainforest gully restoration on a school excursion, while volunteers managed to plant 500 seedlings in record time in May. To view the Regional Landcare Report Snowy West Landcare Group volunteers revegetating the East Gippsland Rail Trail near Newmerella. Card go to www.egcma.com.au/land learn what works, what does not work, The South West Goulburn Landcare For further information contact and why – and ultimately adapt and Network is once again faced with helping Amanda Bartkowski on 5150 3581. improve their efforts. the community recover from fire in the Glenelg Hopkins Kilmore area. They have organised many Seventeen people in Landcare support The CMA held the third annual South information sessions and the coordination roles recently attended a regional peer West Landcare Gathering on Craig of volunteers continues to assist bushfire support gathering. They were able to meet and Woody Oliver’s property south of affected land managers. and learn a bit about their peers, as well Dunkeld. Panyyabyr Landcare Group A recent discussion on the development of a hosted the event on behalf of the CMA as do some problem solving to address specific challenges. national community-led rabbit management Landcare team. The gathering attracted strategy was a good opportunity for local more than 60 Landcare members and For further information contact land managers with substantial experience support staff from around the catchment. Doug Evans on 8781 7920. in delivering rabbit management programs Four Landcare groups gave short presentations Corangamite to share their knowledge. The region at the event including Panyyabyr Landcare Landcare networks and the CMA have celebrated community natural resource Group discussing the Grampians Arc Fox management at an awards evening at the been working together on key projects Program, Upper Mount Emu Creek Network across the region. The Extending a Systems Swanpool Cinema on 27 June. talking about their experience with Junior Approach to Soil Health and Productivity For further information contact Landcare, the Soil Health Group explaining project, led by the Surf Coast and Inland Tony Kubeil on 5761 1619. their work and the Making a Difference for Plains Network, will bring landholders the Merri Group showed how they deal together to learn about whole system farm with their peri-urban demographics. planning, developing soil knowledge and Keynote speaker Dr Paul Horne gave a rotational cropping demonstration sites. talk on integrated pest management. The The CMA has launched Corangamite day finished with a bus tour of more than Landcare News. This regionally focused 40 years of environmental works on Bill e-news bulletin will keep Landcare and Cee Blackwell’s property. There was volunteers and groups up with the latest unanimous positive feedback on the day. news. Email [email protected] if Project Platypus will For further information contact you’d like to receive the e-news. Tony Lithgow on 5571 2526. celebrate its 20th Two highly successful Indigenous cultural Port Phillip and Westernport awareness events were held recently. anniversary later this The Conservation Measures Partnership, Landcare staff and volunteers learnt about year. This organisation has a worldwide consortium of conservation the history and local cultural stories from organisations, has combined the principles and both Kuuyang Maar Aboriginal Corporation had an enormous impact best practices in adaptive management and and Wadawurrung along with processes to on the community and results-based management from conservation help protect cultural heritage sites. and other fields to create the Open Standards environment of the upper for the Practice of Conservation. For further information contact Tracey McRae on 5232 9100. Wimmera catchment. The CMA will support targeted Landcare groups to develop their skills and Goulburn Broken confidence to use the Open Standards. We have been busy coordinating They will work with willing groups with the submissions to the latest round of aim of helping them to be systematic about Communities for Nature grants and planning, implementing and monitoring are keen to get some positive results their conservation initiatives so they can for the region’s groups and networks.

Winter 2014 issue 61 | 23 In brief

Mobile Landcare group transports young people to remote projects By Alan Marks The Victorian Mobile Landcare Group (VMLCG) was formed in 2008 by responsible four wheel drive users who are passionate about Landcare. The group is affiliated with Landcare Australia Limited. We use the off-road transport, logistics and remote area access capabilities of our members to support Landcare and Members of the Victorian Mobile Landcare Group enjoy lunch at Tawonga Huts, Falls Creek, environmental projects of our own or with students and staff of Fintona Girls’ School. in partnership with other groups. One of our activities has been helping to introduce teenagers to Landcare. taken groups to plant outs at Wonthaggi, the website www.vmlcg.org.au or email This typically comes about through Ballan, Myrniong and Yellingbo. It’s Allan at [email protected] contacting and making arrangements encouraging to witness the enthusiasm directly with schools. Next Issue – Landcare and technology of the students attending their second or The next issue of the magazine will feature We have been working with girls from third plant out. stories on Landcare and technology. From Fintona Girls’ School to identify and Our members have current Working GPS maps to smartphone apps, we are remove sallow willow on the Bogong High with Children checks for these events interested in how technology is being Plains for six years. The VMLCG drives the and all of our vehicles are equipped with used by Landcare groups and networks. students and teachers along four wheel radio communications. Most VMLG Contributions to the next issue should drive tracks to the weeding site and our members are also members of four be sent to the editor by Friday 24 members also participate in site activities wheel drive clubs and have been trained October 2014. along with Parks Victoria rangers. in four wheel driving proficiency. Carrie Tiffany, editor We have worked in conjunction with The group is always looking to extend Victorian Landcare and Catchment the Tarrangower Cactus Control Group our range of activities and we welcome Management Magazine assisting schools groups in controlling enquiries. wheel cactus at Maldon. This has also PO Box 1135, Mitcham North 3132 involved transporting school children Alan Marks is the President of the Phone: 0405 697 548 to and from their school. We have also VMLG. For further information visit Email: [email protected]

The Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine is published by the Victorian Government Department of Environment and Primary Industries 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 and to receive your copy via email alert Contact Farm Tree & Landcare Association Phone: 9207 5527 Fax: 9207 5500 Email: [email protected] Read the magazine online Back issues of the Victorian Landcare & Catchment Management magazine can be found at www.landcarevic.net.au/resources/magazine/vic The print size of the magazine can be enlarged online for easier reading.

Published on recycled and recyclable paper 24 |  victorian landcare and catchment management