Victorian Landcare Magazine

Issue 1, Spring 1996

Victorian Landcare Editorial

The Landcare movement is an Australian phenomenon. Now 10 year old, Landcare was conceptualised in Victoria through an initiative of Joan Kirner, then Minister for Conservation, and Heather Mitchell, President of the Victorian Farmers Federation. The first group was formed at Winjallock near St Arnaud on 23 November 1986.

Taken nationally in 1989 by Phillip Toyne of the ACF and Rick Farley the Executive Officer of the National Farmers Federation, Landcare spread across the nation like wildfire. There are now over 650 groups in Victoria and 3,000 in Australia, involving more than a quarter of the farming community.

Landcare is autonomous and community based. Emphasising planning and monitoring, it is multi- disciplinary and takes in a broader view of the environment. It also involves schools and community education.

Landcare seeks to combine productivity and conservation to attain sustainable productivity and improved water quality. It is very fitting that in the tenth year of Landcare we are launching the first issue of the new Victorian Landcare magazine.

In response to calls from one statewide Landcare communication channel, this magazine replaces the two former newsletters, 'Trunkline', produced by the Victorian Farmers Federation for over 14 years and 'Salt Force News', the Department of Natural Resources and Environment's salinity journal, which was in circulation for nearly 12 years.

Victorian Landcare will provide the Landcare movement in Victoria with a focal point for communicating information on issues relating to catchment, land and water management.

The magazine ambitiously seeks to: • Increase the awareness of solutions to land and water management issues in Victoria; • Facilitate the flow of useful Landcare information; • Provide a vehicle for groups to communicate with other groups; • Provide a single focus for statewide Landcare information; • Highlight the importance of Landcare to the non-farming sector; • Demonstrate the importance of combining conservation and production.

We urge farmers, researchers, community groups and agency staff to contribute to the magazine and make it their own. Victorian Landcare will hit 30,000 kitchen tables four times each year, with the aim to increase circulation to over 40,000.

Victorian Landcare is produced by the Victorian Farmers Federation, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Alcoa of Australia Limited and the Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Council.

We hope you enjoy the first issue!

The Editors: Paul Crock, Greg King and Carri Tiffany

======

A letter of congratulations from the Deputy Premier and the Minister for Conservation and Land Management

To all members of the Landcare community,

1 On behalf of the Government of Victoria and as the Ministers jointly responsible for Landcare, may we take this opportunity to introduce you to the first edition of Victoria's new Landcare magazine.

The release of this magazine is a landmark event. It heralds a new era in communicating with a single voice about Landcare to all members of the Landcare community.

We applaud this initiative and congratulate the Victorian Farmers Federation, Alcoa Australia, staff from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Catchment and Land Protection Council in bringing this new magazine to fruition.

The Victorian Government is committed to improved service delivery aimed at sustainable development of our vital primary industries and protection of the state's natural resources and environmental values for the benefit of all Victorians.

The formation of the new department will achieve this goal by integrating management of natural resources at the catchment, regional and farm level to achieve both productivity and conservation outcomes.

This magazine will communicate achievements at each of these levels.

Victoria is now better placed to support Landcare because of this integrated approach to Salinity, Landcare, Catchment Management and Sustainable Regional Development Programs.

The strong partnership between the community and government remains critical to achieving outcomes, however we must never lose sight of the fact that Landcare groups and individual farmers are the real drivers of Landcare.

This year is the tenth anniversary of Landcare in Victoria and it is appropriate that such an important communication vehicle as this new magazine be launched as we embark on the next decade of achievement across a movement that is vital to Victoria's future.

Hon Patrick McNamara Deputy Premier and Minister for Agricultural Resources

Hon Marie Tehan Minister for Conservation and Land Management

======

Three Projects from three thousand By Rob Youl Landcare Publicity Co-ordinator

There are now 3,000 diverse Landcare groups across Australia, with over 670 in Victoria.

Victorian groups are increasingly forming themselves into regional networks to exchange ideas, develop visionary regional catchment projects for sponsorship, mount large scale community monitoring programs and improve communications, especially through newsletters, regional forums and farm-gate signs.

These regional Landcare groupings readily interact with the state-wide system of Catchment and Land Protection Boards, formed two years ago to plan the sustainable management of our rural resources.

A further sign of the maturity of the Landcare movement is its ability to plan and carry out complex long-term projects, working with sponsors large and small, coping well with shortages of resources and fully involving local communities, including schools.

2 Three Victorian projects illustrating the power of local commitment are the Dellicknora fence, and the Archies Creek and Caddens Creek streamside corridors.

In the rugged Dellicknora valley, near the magnificent Snowy gorges in East Gippsland the local landcare group has erected over ten kilometres of electric fence to protect farms from animal pests such as dingos, foxes and wombats.

Among the rounded evergreen hills surrounding Archies Creek near Wonthaggi, a dedicated group of part time farmers has worked quietly for several years to create over six kilometres of revegetated streamside. Members plant up their own frontages and negotiate with the local dairy farmers to fill in the gaps. The farmers erect fences and help the Landcarers when they come in during winter to do their planting of both trees and understorey.

This is very sophisticated revegetation, employing only seedlings raised from seed collected around Archies Creek. The group aims to plant the corridor well into the neighbouring Bass River catchment, as well as continuing similar treatment for other local streams.

Caddens Creek Landcare Group operates in the areas around Balmoral in Victoria's far west, a district noted for magnificent merino wool, towering red gums - and serious salinity. Inspired by a retired horticulturalist the group had a similar vision to its counterpart at Archies Creek - fence off and plant all the local streams. This has happened with great precision, thoroughness and speed, and is very obvious to passing travellers.

======

The Landcare STORY By David Clark

Ten years ago farmers and politicians got together to lead the way in agriculture. They believed they could work in a manner that was both more profitable and more sustainable. This community approach has now become Landcare.

In ten years 670 Landcare groups have formed in Victoria, more than one a week since 1986. So when does Landcare happen to a community?

The fundamental steps in Landcare are when one or more of the following happens: 1. Groups begin to look at land management impact beyond their own boundaries. 2. Individuals realise that they alone cannot solve the land management challenges they face. 3. Single issues of salinity, weeds and productivity are not seen individually, but as interrelated. 4. On-ground action is recognised by the community as essential to its future.

In the light of this first ten years, an anniversary conference has just been held for the Victorian Landcare community in Ballarat from Monday 30 September to Wednesday 2 October, 1996. The conference program was drawn together by the Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Council and the local Landcare groups of the Ballarat region.

The aims of this the tenth anniversary Landcare conference was to: • Celebrate ten years of achievement • See and learn from the best practices happening in Landcare • Make friends and networks among other Landcarers from Victoria and interstate, but most importantly • Concentrate on developing actions for the future success of Landcare in this state.

In the lead up to the Ballarat conference several regional gatherings took place looking at what they believe has made Landcare a success. These comments cover issues of community empowerment, local ownership, and on ground action.

3 The question of where Landcare should be beyond the year 2000 was also canvassed at these events. Responses covered the sharing and linking of knowledge, the sustainability of our farming base in both financial and ecological terms and the strength of our knowledge base as land managers.

The State conference followed the theme "why is landcare working?" and "what can be done to make it work better?". Developing these into specific actions for each commodity group (dairy, wool, horticulture and so on) was the object of the conference.

In recognising that each industry has different parameters to land management, the program of the conference is designed to get specific approaches and actions that individuals and groups can work within their own industry and area.

Conference outcomes will be utilised by individuals, groups, agency staff and the Catchment and Land Protection Council and Boards in planning and achieving better Landcare throughout Victoria.

======

THE OTWAY AGROFORESTRY Network - A tree group initiative By Andrew Stewart, co-ordinator of the Otway Agroforestry Network

The Otway Agroforestry Network is an initiative of the Barwon Valley Farm Tree Group and the Heytesbury-Otway-Colac Tree Group. The network is governed by a consultative committee elected at the annual general meeting from members throughout the Otway region. One of the strengths of the group is the involvement of landowners and other organisations at the 'tree roots' level.

Agroforestry is simply a term used to describe commercial tree growing activities which are carefully integrated into the farming system for a multitude of benefits including: • shelter • assisting in control of soil erosion, salinity and waterlogging • improving water quality • income diversification • development of a resource for local industry • creation of wildlife habitats • improving aesthetics and land value

The aim of the Otway Agroforestry Network is to encourage landowners to consider farm forestry and agroforestry as legitimate farming activities which complement their production systems. This will largely be achieved by developing a farm forestry culture and skills base within the region's farming community. The plantations will owned and managed by the landowners or in partnership with industry.

The Otway Agroforestry Network commenced in 1993 when a federal grant was awarded as part of the Farm Forestry Program administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Energy. A successful program is operating to raise awareness of the opportunities of agroforestry in the Otways. Field days with large attendances have been held and demonstration sites have been established on a range of farming systems.

A major conference was held in Lorne and a book, "Agroforestry - Productive Trees for Shelter and Land Protection in the Otways' has been published and sold over 1,200 copies (books can be purchased for $18 by phoning or faxing Andrew Stewart on (052) 363 206).

"Well designed agroforestry can turn land management problems into solutions which create environmental stability and commercial opportunity".

The Otway Agroforestry Network has also been active in promoting agroforestry on a national basis with a 17 minute story featuring activities of the network on ABC TV's national program 'Landline'. Recognition of the network's vision has been acknowledged with a front page story and picture in the 'Age' newspaper.

4 This year a further $150,000 was received by the network from the Federal Government's Farm Forestry Program. The grant is to be spent over a four year period, however as the network requires more funding for its activities, it is actively pursuing sponsorship.

Part from running field days and conferences the focus of this second phase of the program will be to develop an extensive Farm Forestry Adviser Program. A number of landholders have great experience in the establishment, management, harvesting and marketing of farm trees within the region, but there are also individuals in the network with specialist knowledge. These people will participate in a training course and will then be paid to visit sites and prepare project plans for landowners

As the Otway Agroforestry Network is a private initiative of local tree groups there is a lack of administrative support that other government department Farm Forestry Program grantees enjoy. As a result, the following administrative structures have been put in place:

1. Incorporation The Otway Agroforestry Network is incorporated under the Victorian Farmers Federation Farm Tree and Management Group's umbrella organisation - the VFF Farm Tree and Land Association.

The VFF have negotiated insurance with QBE for Landcare/Farm Tree Groups who incorporate under the Farm Tress and Land Association. Under this scheme the Otway Agroforestry Network is comprehensively insured for a relatively low premium - the cover including group meetings, social gatherings and Landcare activities.

2. Employees The network employs a permanent part time coordinator and contracts others, including farm forestry advisers at strategic times.

A visit to the local accounting firm, auditors of the network's finances, was most beneficial and suggested the following steps be taken: • registration of the network as a group leader • ensure WorkCover forms were completed • superannuation options were discussed and employer registrations completed • calculations of tax to be taken out of wages.

3. Payment of wages The network banks with the National Australia Bank where an arrangement has been made to transfer wages on a fortnightly basis to the employees bank account. This is done for a minimal fee.

4. Professional indemnity Taking out professional indemnity cover to cover negligent or misleading advice is proving difficult. In order to fulfil contractual requirements of the grant, the network must take out professional indemnity insurance. Problems arise as the premium cannot be from the grant monies. Not only are the premiums expensive for such cover, but inquiries made to one firm said there would be difficulties in developing an appropriate policy.

There must be other groups and organisations facing a similar predicament, and perhaps on a collective basis an approach could be made through VFF to develop suitable arrangements to insure groups employing coordinators or facilitators for professional indemnity as is the case for public liability insurance through the Farm Trees and Land Association.

To contact Andrew Stewart, the coordinator of the Otway Agroforestry Network phone or fax him on (052) 363 206.

======

FARMERS gain from river bank rethink

5 The profitability of livestock enterprises can be lifted by watering animals from troughs rather than creeks, dams and rivers, according to a new Kondinin Group report.

By limiting direct access to river frontage, farmers can not only improve the health of their animals but also protect the environment from the impact of erosion and water pollution.

The report, published in Farming Ahead magazine, showed farmers who limited stock access to rivers can benefit in a number of ways including increasing the capital values of their land and expanding their opportunities for timber production.

Kondinin Group chief executive officer, Peter Cooke, said many Australian farmers could improve their returns and protect the environment by fencing off the land adjacent to creeks and streams.

"Allowing stock access to streams leads to trampling of riparian vegetation and pugging of banks leaving these sensitive areas prone to erosion," Mr Cooke said. "Contamination through deposition of animal manure and urine directly into the waterway impacts on the water quality by increasing the nutrient and bacterial loads in the water, which leads to possible blue green algal outbreaks and increased health risks to other farms and towns downstream."

"Canadian research has shown cattle drinking from a piped water source gained 20 per cent more weight than those drinking from unrestricted water holes," Mr Cooke said.

There were a number of options landholders could consider for restricting animal access to natural waterways, including fencing to either limit access points (which are relatively inexpensive but do not completely exclude stock from the stream). Another option is to completely excluding stock from the streams and rivers, in which case pumping or piping water can be used to water stock.

"Installing a pumping system to move the water from a creek into a dam or a trough is a reliable and efficient way of watering stock and preserving water quality and stock health."

Mr Cooke said there were many options which could be used for delivering water to stock, the cost being dependant on the power source and type of pump installed. "The cheapest form of power is mains electricity if accessible but if not, it can be expensive to install."

"Natural power supplies such as solar, wind and water all have their advantages depending on the location and the number of stock to be watered," Mr Cooke said.

The Kondinin Group's stock watering report describes the advantages and disadvantages of the different power sources and pump types. The report, supported by the Land and Water Resources Research and Development Corporation, also provides a cost comparison of common pumping systems to help farmers make purchasing decisions.

For more details on the report phone the Kondinin Group's Farmline information service on 1800 677 761.

======

CATCHMENT management structures to be reviewed

A working party has been established to review the operations of Victoria's Catchment Management Structures, Minister for Conservation and Land Management Marie Tehan and Minister for Agriculture and Resources Pat McNamara announced last month.

The Ministers said the State Government wanted to ensure services provided by the large number of groups, authorities and organisations involved in catchment management issues were maximised, rather than duplicated which often occurred under the existing structures.

6 "The important and challenging work of our land and water management organisations is valued by the Government. By improving the co-ordination between those involved we can ensure significant efficiency gains and less confusion for farmers and regional communities."

Local knowledge of issues was vital to the review and community input was being encouraged during the process, the Ministers said. Mrs Tehan said the working party would investigate existing relationships between authorities and examine the opportunity for improved integration of advisory and implementation groups including CALP Boards, river management authorities, Regional Coastal Management Boards, sustainable regional development committees, salinity and water quality management groups. "It will set the framework for catchment management for Victoria into the next century."

Mr McNamara said the structure of Catchment Management advisory arrangements needed to be reviewed to ensure strategies could be implemented effectively and delivery streamlined.

Regional Catchment strategies are currently being developed to set broad directions for resource management in each region. It is the first time an integrated and objective view has been taken identifying key resource management issues which have a major impact on the health of our catchments and the competitiveness of our agriculture and food industries. The strategies will be submitted to Government by October this year.

"The boards are progressing well in developing the strategies however their successful implementation will depend on the effective co-ordination of groups and DNRE in carrying out the work," Mr McNamara said.

The working party will be led by the chairperson of the Catchment and Land Protection Council, Jeremy Gaylard, and include representatives from the CALP Council and Boards, salinity groups, the Victorian Farmers Federation, local government, river management authority representatives, Coastal Boards and officers from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

The working party will consult widely with interested groups during the review process. As a first step the group has released a discussion paper aimed at stimulating thought and debate about future catchment management arrangements in Victoria. Copies of the discussion paper have been circulated widely and are available from NRE offices around the state.

The working party is expected to make its recommendations to the State Government by the end of the year.

======

New voice for LANDCARE in South Gippsland

Landcare in South Gippsland has evolved at an incredible rate. Slow to start, South Gippsland landholders have taken Landcare to a new dimension. In the last seven years the number of Landcare groups in the area has increased from four to twenty. The most impressive development has been the recent establishment of the South Gippsland Landcare Network which formed to allow members of all groups to share information and represent the interests of all Landcare groups in the South Gippsland area.

With 20 Landcare Groups now representing approximately 380 landholders in the region, some members felt that a cohesive voice was required to act on issues of regional importance.

The network has conducted three meetings and established the following critical objectives:

• To further promote Landcare across South Gippsland • To provide a forum for sharing ideas and promoting issues • To coordinate funding submissions • To provide a link between Landcare groups and the Catchment and Land Protection Boards • To liaise with the relevant agencies on behalf of South Gippsland Landcare groups.

7 The Landcare Network is made up of two members from each Landcare group, two members of the Catchment and Land Protection Boards as well as a representative from each of the shire, NRE, South Gippsland Region Water Authority, and the Tarwin River Management Board.

Bruce Standfield from the Fish Creek Landcare Group has been appointed Chairman of the Network.

The Network has recently been successful in obtaining funding to employ a coordinator who will work with all groups across the district as well as coordinating activities of the Network itself.

Further information about the South Gippsland Landcare Network can be obtained from David Ziebell at NRE Leongatha, on (056) 622191 or (056) 622 204.

======

Weed inquiry - Victorian first

Landcare and weed control groups are set to benefit from the high priority given to weeds.

One of Victoria's significant environmental and agricultural problems is about to be tackled by the State Government.

Minister for Conservation and Land Management Marie Tehan has announced an inquiry will be held to determine the extent of damage caused by weeds on private and public land.

It's the first time in the State's history a Government has attempted to address the economic impact of the weed problem.

Mrs Tehan said the State Government was serious about weeds and had made tackling the problem a priority issue. It is expected the State's Catchment and Land Protection Boards will increase their focus on weed control and the Inquiry will give the Government a broad range of options for addressing this deep-rooted problem.

"Weeds cause an estimated $360 million each year in lost agricultural production and environmental damage in Victoria, and are an increasing problem on rural roadsides. This is a major issue facing all Victorians and we have taken a significant step in combating this long - recognised problem."

Mrs Tehan said the Parliamentary Environment and Natural Resources Committee has been asked to determine the extent, cost and priorities for mounting a forceful attack on the losses caused by weeds, and report its findings in 1997.

"The Committee will also assess the adequacy of current information and research on pest plant control strategies, advise on the rationale for classification of pest plants and suggest statewide priorities for pest plant control."

The roles of, and cost sharing arrangements between State and local Governments, industry and landholders in research, education, and implementing control strategies will also be considered.

======

New Chemical Regulations

Groups/individuals must obtain an Agricultural Chemical User Permit before using some farm chemicals.

Landcare groups across the state must be aware of their requirements under new chemical regulations before embarking on any activities requiring the use of S7, some residual and ester formation chemicals.

8 From August 1, 1996 people or groups wishing to use the following agricultural chemicals must obtain an Agricultural Chemical Users Permit (ACUP) from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or be under the direct supervision of a person holding a permit.

A. Any schedule 7 poison (eg Diquat, Endosulfan, Paraquat, Parathion, Omethoate)

B. Atrazine, methan sodium and ester formulations of MCPA; 2,4-D; 2,4-DB.

To obtain an Agricultural Chemical User Permit you must have completed the required training program, such as a Farm Chemical User Course (FCUC) for your industry, or a recognised equivalent.

The user must also hold an insurance policy for at least $30,000 including liability cover for property damage and bodily injury. Many Landcare groups may not have such insurance, and therefore must look into this issue before embarking on any spraying projects.

The Victorian Farmers Federation has been facilitating Chemical Users Courses over the last 18 months, during which time more than 10,000 people have obtained the necessary knowledge to obtain their ACUP.

The three year licences are available from the Department of National Resources and Environment at a cost of $38. Once one person in a Landcare group has obtained his or her licence, they can supervise other group members undertaking projects which require the use of these chemicals.

For more information on the Chemical Users Courses, contact Mim Monkovich at the Victorian Farmers Federation on (03) 9207 5555.

======

RABBIT Calicivirus - Lanholder Action Essential

Victorian Landholders have been warned not to rely on the rabbit calicivirus disease (RCD) for complete rabbit control.

Rosemary James, Program Manager of Peat Plants and Animals with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment reported that not all rabbits in virus areas are affected by the disease.

"The virus has proved highly effective in many areas, killing up to 95 per cent of rabbits, however unlike myxomatosis, RCD will not persist in the filed all year round, and may not be effective on moderate to low rabbit densities," she said.

Ms James warned landholders not to become complacent and reiterated the message that all RCD offers is a unique opportunity to reduce rabbit population. "Landholders must continue their planned rabbit control programs and be ready to maximise the benefits of the virus as it passes through."

"Most importantly, after the virus reduces rabbit numbers, traditional follow-up control is essential to eliminate the remaining animals."

She said the virus is having the same effect in many areas as a good poison campaign. "Like poisoning, follow-up control is essential, preferably on a coordinated group basis including ripping warrens, removal of surface harbour and fumigation."

Following RCD's escape from the CSIRO research trials on Wardang Island, the virus has spread rapidly throughout South Australia, New South Wales, south-western Queensland and Victoria. It has now been confirmed on every State and Territory on the mainland of Australia.

In Victoria over 100 RCD sites have been verified stretching over most of the north-west and south- west of the state.

9 In addition to these locations, the virus is due to be released in 250 strategic sites throughout Victoria once all legislative requirements have been completed.

"The Department has developed a strategy preparing for the release including follow up work and monitoring of the spread of the virus."

To maximise the benefits from the legal release, Departmental staff are evaluating the latest scientific information to determine the most appropriate time for its release.

For more information on the release of the RCD please contact your local office of the Department of Natural Resources.

======

Wooragee ready for RCD release

The strategic release of RCD provides the opportunity for:

• Landholders and groups involved in rabbit control projects to allocate resources, and to time conventional rabbit controls to be undertaken in conjunction with the virus to ensure rabbit numbers are not allowed to rebuild; • Predator controls to be planned and implemented in areas where native animals may be threatened by foxes and feral cats following a major drop in rabbit numbers; • Information to be gathered on how the virus works in different land systems so that the virus can be used in a way that will achieve maximum, long term benefits for Australia's pastoral, agricultural and conservation lands; • Minimise the chance of rabbits developing genetic resistance or the virus becoming less effective which may occur if the virus is allowed to gradually spread across the state.

The Wooragee Landcare Group is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the rabbit calicivirus disease (RCD) and plans to join forces with NRE staff in a concerted effort to maximise the impact of the virus on the rabbit population.

Rabbits have long been a serious problem in North East Victoria causing untold damage to the land and environment. They have caused great losses in production on agricultural land by reducing stocking rates, impacting on crop yields and affecting the natural environment by reducing numbers of native plant species.

When the myxoma was released, the lack of follow up work at the time meant the sharp reduction in rabbit numbers did not last long and resistant populations soon built up. This time it is planned that rabbit control will be high on the priorities of the landholders in the area.

The region is lucky in that it has had time to prepare for the arrival of RCD, and has studied rabbit numbers over the past two years by counting a transect through Wooragee. This information has given the group an idea of rabbit numbers and population densities and will assist in ensuring a coordinated approach to the control of rabbits in the area.

A number of activities are planned to coincide with the virus release including hiring a professional contractor to fumigate warrens, and undertake an enhanced 1080 campaign in the area. Access to rippers and advice on warren destruction will also be made available to interested landholders.

The Wooragee group will work with other Landcare groups in the region carrying out similar projects to reduce the chance of rabbit numbers breeding up resistance to RCD in North East Victoria.

======

Celebrating 10 Years of Landcare By Barry Clugston

10 Former chair of the State Landcare Committee. Stawell

Farmers delight in proudly telling their stories which capture the essence of Landcare.

Catchment plans need to be resourced to move into implementation programs.

There are still great challenges ahead with erosion and salinity spreading rapidly.

Landcare has been used to form friendships, plant millions of trees and improve the profitability of hundreds of farming enterprises.

I remember the historic occasion for the launch of Landcare at a field day at Winjallok in 1986. Historic because it was to give new meaning to looking after our land and historic because there was a female Labour Government Conservation minister, Mrs Kirner and a female president of the Victorian Farmers Federation, Mrs Mitchell, jointly breaking new ground with their respective roles.

On that day Landcare was presented as a partnership between the community, the farm lobby and state government.

In just ten years Landcare has now been used as a vehicle and network to form hundreds of district groups, make many new friends, develop plans, plant millions of trees and improve the dollar return on many hundreds of farms. Since that time Landcare has gone from strength to strength, with more than 3,000 known groups operating across Australia under the Landcare umbrella.

These groups have formed to tackle local issues such as erosion, loss of soil, lack of vegetation, pest weeds and pest animals, new techniques, and even urban issues like rubbish disposal.

Landcare has helped fulfil numerous social changes, and districts that have faced losses of populations and withdrawal of services have often taken up the challenge to try and maintain social cohesion.

Hobby farmers have brought new skills to many districts and often these small farm owners are heavily involved with the local Landcare groups. Schools have acted as resource agents with meeting spaces, willing helpers and a new generation of farmers eager to learn.

Urban communities have joined by growing and planting trees and learning about some of the problems associated with the production of food and fibre.

Landcare has held a staggering number of field days, seminars and conferences to present new ideas, successes and failures and to develop that essential network of interest groups and flow of information.

There are government driven programs called Landcare initiatives which provide support, resources and assistance to some of the many operating groups.

Over the years government agencies have fought pitched battles for dollar resources in the name of Landcare and salinity. In 1996 the state government brought two key agencies together from Agriculture and Conservation which could work in favour of Landcare to broaden the outlook of many department people to encompass an integrated approach.

Group driven Landcare has been a positive force, often without any government assistance, because the demand has grown from the local district.

To outsiders the concept of Landcare has often appeared vague and non effective but to delve inside and appreciate the real picture reveals a different story.

To hear two former neighbours who have not spoken to one another for 30 years and would wave shotguns at each other on chance meetings now talk of co-operation, sharing and making amends is a credit to the logical approach of Landcare.

11 To see the delight in the eyes of any farmer as they proudly tell the story of new endeavours, ideas and farm plans that have changed the working face of their farm.

Hearing a farmer explain how the local shire has been pushed into action to repair roadside vegetation, or the government agency has been forced to involve itself with planning and resources, is to see a positive partnership developing.

Landcare has become a vehicle for action, for whole farm planning, district plans, district actions, sub- catchment plans and works and whole of catchment strategies.

Often the two issues of Landcare and catchment strategies are confused in some minds, but Landcare is a vital component of catchment planning and is a great avenue for drawing all of the issues together to be tackled on a broader basis.

We now have regional assessment panels, state assessment panels, National Landcare Advisory Committees, National Landcare Programs, Murray Darling Basin programs and water/nutrient based programs.

Some governments have tried to re-arrange Landcare but it has endured because it is logical, it is community driven and it is a real partnership with all levels of government.

But governments need to be constantly involved, not always with direct hands on but as partners, planners, resource agents and often ideas merchants and supporters of the approach.

Victoria has many advantages in its favour and we should ensure this direction is not lost.

There is a good spread of Landcare groups, there are other farm discussion groups, Meycheck and Topcrop, native vegetation controls, conservation covenants, salinity plans for dryland and irrigation areas. Some local governments have conservation strategies, land for wildlife, farm tree groups, farm forest groups and a real awareness of the need to look after our land and many other supportive actions.

There is still a great challenge for Landcare with future directions. Bio diversity is being lost from our farmlands at an alarming rate and if we are to keep what remains then a greater understanding and level of protection needs to take place.

It has been a great to market Landcare in a way that encourages people to join in and feel positive about themselves and their involvement but Landcare can play an even greater role in future.

The new challenge still ahead involves managing the bio diversity and learning to incorporate the ideas into farming systems.

Many districts still face a massive loss of their young people, salinity is still expanding its area of impact, lots of farmers have not changed their cultural and agricultural practices to keep up with the Landcare philosophy and governments are trying hard to avoid spending and money on staff and resources.

Governments must be constantly encouraged to support and work in partnership with the catchments and Landcare.

Local government must be drawn further into the process in a variety of ways.

Catchment plans need to be resourced to move into implementation programs. We have moved rapidly ahead since the groups conservation programs of years gone by but we must learn from the past mistakes and not lose the valuable gains and certainly not repeat old problems.

Thinking globally and acting locally is entirely relevant as a message for Landcare.

======

12 Powlett Project builds on regional Landcare success

Everyone from school children to local anglers have joined in the project.

Following the success of the Bass Valley Landcare Group at last year's State Landcare awards and the example set by the winners of the National Landcare Primary Producer Award, Tom and Sue Loughridge from Jeetho West, Landcare members in South Gippsland have embarked on an ambitious Landcare project focussing on the Powlett River catchment.

The project has brought together local groups throughout the area and large numbers of urban volunteers who will work together to help rehabilitate the Powlett River and its tributaries.

Located in the heart of South Gippsland, the Powlett catchment rises within the township of Korumburra and discharges into Bass Strait, west of Wonthaggi. Although some land protection works have occurred within the catchment, notably around Lance Creek and Archies Creek, it has generally suffered in the past.

Much of the degradation is due to over-clearing by pioneer dairy farmers and heavy demand for timber the Wonthaggi mines early this century. The result has been diminished water quality, loss of wildlife habitat and wide spread soil erosion.

The project has financial and technical support from Landcare Australia Limited, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the Bass Coast Shire and the South Gippsland Region Water Authority. Corporate sponsorship from L'Oreal haircare products has been obtained and a number of other large companies have also shown a keen interest.

Although the beneficiaries from such a large scale project would be farmers, the involvement of local fishing, tourism and educational bodies has been welcome.

This year the project will see over 300 visitors from Melbourne congregate within the Powlett catchment over the weekend of November 9 and 10. With the help of local Landcare groups a number of major activities will be undertaken. It is anticipated that over 25,000 trees will be planted over the weekend, weed control works undertaken, seed collection, direct seeding and water quality monitored.

Anyone interested in participating in the project can contact Martin Fuller, the Bass Landcare Coordinator on (056) 743 516 or David Ziebell at DNRE Leongatha on (056) 622 195.

======

Landcare Education Rolls On

300 urban people descended on the Alcoa Warrambeen Landcare Education Centre to learn about Landcare.

Over three hundred people from in and around Geelong took to the highways and by-ways in their vintage cars recently to have an interactive Landcare experience at the Alcoa Warrambeen Landcare Education Centre and Demonstration Farm.

The education centre has proved to be one of the best facilities in Victoria to introduce people to the intricacies of Landcare, the problems faced by farmers and the innovative solutions which have been devised to tackle them.

Managed by Greening Australia Victoria, the centre boasts accommodation for groups up to 24, full catering facilities in a modern kitchen area, audio visual equipment and most importantly of all fantastic interactive displays outlining the problems and solutions to Landcare.

Situated on the historic woolgrowing property of Warrambeen, the centre provides school children with the opportunity to experience life on a commercial farm, and get an insight into how links between productivity and conservation can be achieved.

13 For more information about the Alcoa Warrambeen Landcare Education Centre and Demonstration Farm, contact Greening Australia Victoria on (03) 9547 3024.

Biological Control Seminar Leads the Way Over recent months, Warrambeen has hosted numerous seminars and workshops relating to Landcare activities, the most recent of which was the Grasslands Society Biological Control Seminar.

The seminar, supported by Alcoa Landcare, involved some of this country's foremost research scientists, all seeking solutions to Landcare problems which will result in treatments which are kinder on the environment, and more species specific.

Dr Cor Lenghaus, the head of the CSIRO RCD Research Team, explained the path the new rabbit virus had to take prior to its release onto Wardang Island, and stressed the need for landholders to follow up with conventional rabbit control after the virus had passed through their area. "After all," he said, "we only started with 12 rabbits."

Having flown in from Canberra for the seminar, Dr Richard Milner revealed his new secret weapon against black field crickets. His research into a fungal biological control agent for the crickets will continue after successful field trials held at Warrambeen. With support from Alcoa Landcare, Richard has isolated a fungus which may one day replace the present chemical treatment for the pest - a treatment which currently kills much more than just the pests.

Dr Peter Bird, from the CSIRO Division of wildlife and ecology told the group they were losing the battle against the fox. "Traditional baiting and shooting has not controlled the fox," he said. His innovative project aims to find a way to make foxes allergic to sexual proteins, and hence reduce reproduction rates in the fox.

Proceedings of the seminar have been produced, and can be obtained from Lisa Miller at NRE Geelong on (052) 264 667.

======

Saltwatch

Saltwatch 1996 was launched at Darraweit Guim in early May and saw a whole new generation of saltwatchers getting out and monitoring their local environment.

During saltwatch week 285 schools and community groups collected water samples to check the salinity levels of their local rivers, creeks, dams and bores.

Feedback from the schools has shown the highlight of Saltwatch is the visit from the staff of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or Regional Water Boards.

School students loved having a special visitor with the expertise to help them test their samples and answer their questions.

In return, the community has occasion to thank the saltwatchers. An enormous amount of important data is collected by the teams of students and teachers.

For more information about saltwatch contact Tanya Kruger on (03) 9412 4369.

======

Robinson at Large By Jim Robinson Greening Australia Victoria (With apologies to Wheels)

14 Hopkins River Corridor Project Underway The Hopkins River Corridor of Green Project, announced by the Federal Government in June last year (see Trunkline Issue 49, June 1995) is now well underway.

GAV, the project managers under contract to the Australian Nature Conservation Agency in Canberra, have appointed James Scholfield as the project facilitator in the Hopkins River catchment. His job is to assist the formation of a regional consortium of Landcare Groups, other interested people and organisations and to help develop large-scale regional vegetation corridor projects and funding bids to support their implementation.

Approximately $160,000 should be available for regional consortium projects to be carried out from 1996 - 98.

The Hopkins project is part of a National Corridors of Green Program which operates in all States and Territories with the support of the Federal Government. It is based on the River Murray Corridor of Green Program managed by GA in Victoria, NSW and South Australia from 1993 - 97.

The Next Step Up The basis of the River Murray and Hopkins River Corridor of Green projects was to support the formation of group consortium or group networks which take a broader regional view rather than a single Landcare group view of their area.

Most Landcare groups would have worked cooperatively with other groups in their region over the years. However, in recent times, there has been a trend for many groups of groups in Victoria to formally develop regional consortia or group networks to actively work on projects with a common regional vision.

Some consortium of groups have been catchment based such as the Woady Yaloak Catchment Group which is made up of seven Landcare groups in the catchment. Similarly the Ovens Valley Network, the Glenthompson Catchment group and the groups involved in Project Platypus in the upper catchments of the Wimmera River are looking across their catchments as well as their immediate Landcare area.

Other Landcare consortia have convened using geographic boundaries other than river catchments such as the newly formed Heytesbury Network, the South Gippsland Landcare Network and the Combined Dundas Tablelands Land Management Group.

Group networks have also formed on the basis of the new local government areas, for example, the Mitchell Landcare and Environment Network and the Gannawarra Shire Groups Network, (In this regard, I reckon that, with 700 Landcare groups throughout the state, a case may be made for all of the new Shires to appoint Landcare - environmental officers to work with and support the Landcare movement in their shire! A number have already!).

Landcare group networks are effectively a strep down from the broad Salinity and Catchment and Land Protection Regional strategy - planning forums and a step up from the individual Landcare group. They are an evolutionary phase of the Landcare movement to be encouraged without denying the continued role of individual groups.

At the end of the day, most activity will still continue to be at the farm level and the individual Landcare Group level but by forming regional networks, we can see how it all fits and where the dollars will work hardest.

1986 - 1996 Ten Years of Landcare 1996 marks the tenth anniversary of the first official 'LandCare' Group, Winjallok, in 1986 (though there had been a range of land protection discussion groups for many years prior and the first four Farm Trees Groups formed in 1981).

And now, I believe, there are more than 700 Landcare Groups in Victoria!!

15 700 - hell's bells, that's phenomenal!! Aside from the onground achievements, it bears a little thinking about.

For example, 700 groups means that there are an average of nearly two AGM's every day of the year. 700 secretaries and chairpeople - now, there are 1,400 very important people! And if executive committees average, say, about 7 people each, we have a further 5,000 key folk in the future of sustainable agriculture in Victoria!

Think of the combined practical commonsense and wisdom in the contributions of these folks to the vast array of strategies, forums and planning committees. And think of all the late - financing night meetings since 1986! And all the field days and organising the field days! And all the afternoon tea bags and rounds of sandwiches and scones!

And how many filing cabinets and lever - arch folders full of landcare paperwork in home offices around the state! And how many applications for funding assistance?

Also spare a thought for the often unstated but critical contribution of those hard working state agency staff over the years, particularly Landcare support people. The success of Landcare obviously reflects this partnership of the farming community and government working together. In my experience, agency staff have been central to the development of most groups and to the ongoing achievements of groups through their advice, assistance, ideas, encouragement and information.

700 groups also means a hell of a lot of night meetings for agency folk too, often effectively with no possibility of time - in - lieu and a commitment matching that of their community.

Thankfully, a number of groups have been fortunate to have paid coordinators who have 'oiled the wheels' and hopefully taken the pressure off.

Anyway, to you all - well done! I wonder where we and 'sustainable agriculture' will be in 2006?

======

More Murray Corridor - PROJECTS in Northern Victoria

Two more regional corridors projects in northern Victoria have received funding through the River Murray Corridor program.

Lake Mokoan - Warby Range Corridor Network Project The project, targeted largely at the problem of blue green algae in Lake Mokoan near Wangaratta, is being undertaken by a large consortium of the Warby Range, Greta Valley and Mollyullah Tatong Landcare Groups and Community Working Group for the Restoration of Lake Mokoan with the support of the local ACF, LEAP crews, Goulburn Murray Water, State and local government agency staff.

Centred around the catchment and foreshore of the lake and including major feeder streams with high nutrient and sediment loads, it proposes a range of works including establishment of 50,000 trees and shrubs and 35 km of double fencing and fencing of creek margins.

Lake Bael Bael to Loddon River Corridor Network This consortium of two Landcare groups, the Shire of Gannawarra and Kerang Primary School, assisted by staff from the NRE proposes to re-establish corridors of local native trees and shrubs along roadsides and on private property that will form an approximately 40 metre wide corridor from the Loddon River to Lake Bael Bael via Reedy Lake, Lake Elizabeth and Duc Lake. The project should help control salinity in the region as well as provide connected habitat for native fauna.

======

16 Catchment & Land Protection Boards - new strategic approach to catchment management

Regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards across Victoria have formulated Regional Catchment Strategies for priority works in their respective areas. All strategies have been through a public consultation phase and will presented to the Government for final approval by the end of the year.

For more information about your Regional Catchment Strategy, and how it affects you or your group, please contact your local Catchment and Land Protection Board executive officer. All the boards have summary documents which will expand on the issues outlined here if you don't feel comfortable reading through the entire strategy for your region.

Catchment and Land Protection Council The Council's immediate priorities are to: • Ensure that funds are directed to onground needs as set out in regional catchment strategies; • Further promote Landcare throughout Victoria; • Establish a coordinated system of assessing the condition of land and water; • Ensure that local government works closely with the ten Regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards through complimentary regional planning; • Get the broader urban and rural communities directly involved by raising awareness of the critical need to address issues of land degradation, water quality and supply and protection of our native plants and animals.

For more information on the Catchment and Land Protection Council and its activities, please contact Ern Cattach, the council's executive officer at 4/115 Victoria Parade Fitzroy 3065, or phone (03) 9412 6513 Fax (03) 9412 4271.

Mallee All matters concerned with land and water management Identify areas requiring special plans Assess and subsequently manage public land Environmental flows in Murray and Wimmera Rivers Nutrient run off from urban areas Assist bodies already involved in works, such as Salinity implementation groups and government departments.

Wimmera Water erosion Gully tunnel erosion Dryland salinity Chemical contamination Pest plants Pest animals Water quality - surface and groundwater Flora and fauna loss Drainage/flood plain management

Executive Officer: John Young State Public Offices PO Box 479 Horsham 3400 Phone: (053) 821 544 Fax: (053) 826 076

Glenelg Changed fire regimes Chemical contamination Water erosion Eutrophication/nutrients Habitat loss

17 Pest animals Pest plants Dryland salinity Salinity in waterways

Executive Officer: Colin Dunkley 17 Thompson Street Hamilton 3300 Phone: (055) 723 033 Fax: (055) 725 215

Corangamite Pest plant control Review of land use planning schemes Waterway management Soil management Pest animals

Executive Officer: Don Forsyth 83 Gellibrand Street Colac 3520 Phone: (052) 335 541 Fax: (052) 313 823

North Central Protecting Water Resources Sustaining Agricultural Productivity Limiting Pest Animals and Weeds Saving Fauna and Flora Improving Public Land Sustainable Forestry and Mining

Executive Officer: Shawn Butters State Public Offices PO Box 401 Bendigo 3550 Phone: (054) 446 750 Fax: (054) 446 721

Port Phillip Implement a co-ordinated water quality improvement program Establish responsibilities for waterway management in the five catchment regions Halt the spread of pest plants and reduce infestations of some species threatening natural environment and agriculture Monitor and control pest animal populations in key natural and agricultural areas in the region.

Executive Officer: Bill Thomas KTRI PO Box 48 Frankston 3199 Phone: (03) 9785 0187 Fax: (03) 9785 0143

Goulburn Salinity Management Plans - dry land and irrigation Water quality strategy River management works program Biodiversity strategy Weeds program Integration of Land and water issues other than salinity Water quality (other than nutrients)

18 Executive Officer: Bill O'Kane State Public Offices PO Box 1752 Shepparton 3632 Phone: (058) 222 288 Fax: (058) 316 254

West Gippsland Water quality decline Pest plant and animal infestation Vegetation and habitat loss Soil structure decline Soil erosion Salinity - both dryland and irrigation Waterway degradation Tourism and recreation pressures Urbanisation impacts

Executive Officer: Dirk Holwerda 71 Hotham Street Traralgon 3844 Phone: (051) 722 174 Fax: (051) 722 100

North East Co-operation and co-ordination with others to ensure sustainable resource management Water quality - improve the region's water resources in the Murray-Darling Basin Land Management - increase the adoption of best management practices Pest Plants - reduce the spread and eradicate where possible pest plants threatening agriculture and the environment Pest Animals - control animal populations on public and private land in partnership with land holders Biodiversity - maintain and enhance biodiversity Fire management - ensure fire management regimes protect human life and property and natural environment whilst reducing fire hazards Land Use Planning - implement resource management guideline in land use planning

Executive Officer: Jan Palmer 1 McKoy Street Wodonga 3690 Phone: (060) 556 124 Fax: (060) 556 119

East Gippsland Water erosion Pest plants Fire (protection and regimes) Biodiversity conservation Pest animals

Executive Officer: Chris Barry 177 Main Street Bairnsdale 3875 Phone: (051) 530 444 Fax: (051) 530 458

======

19 The Golden Harvest of Native Grasses By Gib Wettenhall

To the first white settlers, the rippling ocean of tall tufted native grasses stretching in a broad swathe from the Darling Downs in Queensland into Victoria presented seemingly limitless pastoral possibilities.

All around Australia, land managers are reassessing the possibilities for bringing native grasses back as a means of fighting salinity, lowering soil acidity and reducing the dependence on fertilisers. In regions such as the Murray Darling Basin, research into native grasses at paddock level has given new direction to Landcare group activity.

After 200 years of pasture improvement only remnants of native grassland cling to hilltops or persist in open woodlands. That they have persisted at all is - many land holders have come to believe - a tribute to their ability to survive despite drought, fire and neglect.

Gathering seed from these local stands, large or small, has until recently proven impractical due to a lack of harvesting equipment. Without plentiful quantities of inexpensive seed, Landcare groups have found it difficult to establish trial patches - a necessary precursor to learning how and when native grasses ought to be sown to ensure their widespread establishment once again.

Major Research Project A major research project into perennial native grasses, the Community Grasses Project, identified their first task as developing an extensive grass- seed harvesting capacity. Established by land managers and land holders from NSW and Victoria within the Murray Darling Basin in 1994, the project was allocated $485,000 over its first three phase.

An engineer with a Snowy Mountains Authority career behind him, Steering Committee chairman, Jim Ryan, enlisted colleagues and other Steering Committee members to examine existing brush cutters and see how they could be adapted for grass-seed harvesting.

Their brief was to develop a machine that was simple, reliable and effective; big enough to cover the country but small enough for a single gateway; easy to tow and legal on a public road; and within the purchasing capacity of a Landcare group.

The Community Grasses Project believes it has now cleared this hurdle, according to Clive Thomas, a wool and grain producer from Forbes in central NSW who is the co-ordinator for the Community Grasses Project.

"We have developed two new grass seed harvesters, a simplified brush harvester and a four wheel motor-bike mounted unit which operates by suction."

"Both units have undergone successful trials. The brush harvester is ready for action. A beautiful machine, it works as well as it looks: 1.8 metres wide, it operates with such a gentle action you hardly know it's been over the sward."

"For economy reasons, the suction model is undergoing changes to incorporate commonly available components."

Clive Thomas believes that when grass-seed harvesters are available in every catchment, rebuilding the native grasslands from local provenance seed will make good sense.

Active growers throughout summer, the deep rooted native grasses tap the water table constantly. As well as being acid-soil tolerant, native grasses are an essential part of the native habitat. Clive Thomas points out that unlike many of their exotic cousins: "They're an existing component of the local environment and not going to take over."

More Questions Than Answers Harvesting the seed, however, is only the beginning. Still to be resolved are the following impediments, claims Clive Thomas:

20 • How to store seed on-farm so it can maintain its viability while awaiting a suitable season for sowing; • Native grass seed is fragile. Cleaning seed can damage it. Some land managers believe we should be devising methods to broadcast the seeds the way they are at harvest, rather than forcing them to conform with conventional sowing equipment; • Finding out when to sow; • How to encourage seeds to germinate. Native grasses dance to a different drummer than European perennial grasses; • How to create a weed - free window in which native grasses might establish themselves without lethal competition; • How to manage immature pastures. Some native grasses are slow growing in their juvenile stage and easily pulled up by grazing animals.

"With all these impediments to solve you can see why the accumulation of inexpensive, plentiful seed is important," comments Clive Thomas.

Built by Monaro Engineering and Technical Services of Cooma, the brush harvester's design and details are available by phoning Clive Thomas on 068 522 176; or fax 068 524 082.

======

Salinity damages wetland plants and animals

A research project being conducted by Monash University has demonstrated that increasing salinity can have serious effects on wetland plants and animals.

Dr Paul Bailey, the project leader, claims, "Wetlands are important for maintaining biodiversity in plants and animals. They remove nutrients from agricultural runoff, provide habitat for large numbers of native birds and animals as well as being a place for recreational activities such as fishing and camping."

"In the past, wetlands had often been seen as places to be drained, or to store saline groundwater."

Salinity levels in wetlands are increasing as saline water tables rise or saline water is diverted from groundwater pumping.

The aims of the research project are to find out what was known about the salt sensitivity of wetland and riverine plants and animals; undertake filed and glasshouse studies on the effect of increasing salinity on wetland plant and animals; and to formulate tentative management regimes to help land managers minimise the damage to wetlands from increasing salt.

Filed experiments have been carried out in the Raftery State Forest wetland simulating an increase in salinity levels to those found in the local groundwater. Raftery was chosen for the experiment because it is not currently affected by salt so the plants and animals are not adapted to salinity.

The Raftery wetland floods once a year and then dries out. During the dry phase the wetland has a pasture of amphibromus grass. After flooding, plants such as water milfoil emerge and grow rapidly to flower, produce seed and form new overwintering tubers and buds.

Wetland Plastic - Wrapped The wetland was encased in plastic lined enclosures during the dry phase. When the wetland flooded the plastic skirts were pulled up to seal the area. Salt was added to the enclosures to raise the salinity to the same level as the local groundwater, and the survival and growth of the plants and animals were measured. Further detailed experiments have also been carried out in the laboratory and glasshouse.

Dr Nigel Warwick said that wetlands like Raftery, which flood once a year, are affected by huge fluctuations in salinity levels.

21 While the initial salinity of the water which flows in may be low, as the wetland dries out the salinities can reach very high levels. For example, and initial salinity of 1,800 mg/l can reach 6,000 mg/l by the end of summer.

"The research has shown that salt levels of around 6,000 mg/l can prevent the growth of wetland plants. Plants like floating pond weed grow weakly at 6,000 mg/l and are unable to form tubers for growth in the following year. Salt levels of 2,000 - 3,000 mg/l can completely prevent floating pond weed from flowering," he said.

Salt increases fly and mosquito numbers The research shows that most insect numbers decreased in the saline enclosures, but there was a noticeable increase in flies and mosquitoes. Dr Warwick said the increasing salinity of wetlands may have public health implications.

"We now have a better idea of how some wetland species within the Murray - Darling Basin are affected by salt, the next step is to formulate strategies to minimise damage by salt."

Dr Warwick said that more wetlands need to be studied and further research is needed to tie in with management decisions on disposal of saline water to rivers and wetlands.

"That way we can more effectively determine ways to minimise the damage that salt will do wetlands," he said.

The research, part of a four year grant from the Land and Water Resources Research and Development Corporation, was conducted by Dr Nigel Warwick and Dr Paul Bailey from the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and the CRC for Freshwater Ecology at Monash University.

More information is available from Nigel Warwick on (03) 9905 5649.

======

GOULBOURN MURRAY LANDCARE NETWORK WATERTABLE WATCH PROJECT

The project area covers approximately 3,000 square kms of highly productive farming land of which 280,000 hectares are under irrigation, using 1.4 million megalitres of water annually.

Rapidly rising water tables and salinity are posing a major threat to future productivity and sustainability.

The area currently has a food production value of $420,000,000 per annum. Included are 3,000 dairy farms, 640 horticultural farms and 3,500 mixed farms. 12 major food processors are also based in the area.

If no action is taken it has been estimated that production losses would be $40,000,000 per annum by the year 2050.

With funding from the William Buckland Foundation, the GMLN has established a program in 14 of its 23 member groups. This funding covers the first year of a three year project.

Test wells have been installed to form grids across these Landcare group areas.

An unpaid coordinator and a monitor for each group have been appointed. To ensure uniformity of readings GMLN held two training days for the monitors.

The monitors are paid $2 per well reading to read every test well on a set day on a monthly basis. Twice a year they bail the test wells out four days prior to taking their readings and on the reading day take a sample and test it for salinity.

22 Each month after the readings are completed the data collected is entered onto computer disc and forwarded to Geographic Information Systems at the Institute for Sustainable Irrigated Agriculture, Tatura.

GIS collates this information and produces a water table map for each participating Landcare group on a bi-monthly basis.

GIS is able to add overlays containing further information such as - soil types, channels, drains, road, vegetation and topography to these maps. This combined information format has incalculable value to everyone involved - from the individual farmer, Landcare groups, Network Catchment Boards, all agency personnel to advisory groups concerned with combating the rapidly escalating problems of rising water tables and salinity.

For more information on the Goulbourn Murray Landcare Network, or the Watertable Watch Program, contact Earle Phillips, publicity officer of the GMLN on (058) 594 204.

Goulbourn Murray Watertable Network Groups 1. Arcadia Landcare Group 2. Bunbartha Kaarimba Landcare Group 3. Dookie Land Management Group 4. East Shepparton Landcare Group 5. Girgarre Stanhope Landcare Group 6. Harston Community Landcare Group 7. Invergordon District Environment and Landcare Group 8. Katandra West Landcare Group 9. Katunga Landcare Group 10. Lockington and District Landcare Group 11. Dookie Land Management Group 12. Wharparilla West Landcare Group 13. Wyuna Landcare Group 14. Yarrowoyah Watertable Management Group

======

Landcare Foundation Supports Mallee Revegetation

The Southern Mallee Trees on Farms Group received a grant of $2,000 from the Lance Reichstein Foundation via the Landcare Foundation in January 1995.

The project on the Culgoa - Ultima road was for revegetation of road corridors and is the third project of this kind the group has been involved in.

Commencing at Culgoa on the Tyrrell Creek, there were intermittent patches of remnant mallee and grassland on the 21 kms stretch north from Culgoa to the Lalbert Creek. The Reichstein Foundation funding will enable the group to revegetate the areas between these patches joining them to make a corridor which will leave only 3.1 kms to complete the gaps on the section between the Tyrrell and Lalbert Creeks. A Government grant of $4,950 has been received to carry this work in the late winter or early spring of 1996.

From the Lalbert Creek to Ultima, the roadsides are treed with a wide variety of the trees and shrubs which occur in the Mallee.

From Ultima to Swan Hill, there is only 1 km of roadside which is not treed, however there is a link up through private property which covers this section of the corridor.

This project was carried out with the assistance of the Culgoa Lions Club, 10 members and others taking part in the tree planting in September 1995.

23 Grants received by the group are used to purchase fencing materials, seedlings and treeguards, with all other works being carried out by volunteers. The site preparation is usually arranged with abutting landowners, and the watering with the aid of the Berriwillock and Culgoa Rural Fire Brigades. Unfortunately part of the site preparation will not be carried out in time for the tree planting in September 1996. The seedlings and tree guards on hand were used to plant an extra row of trees on 'Bull's' section for which we had a Government grant. Since then the preliminary working has been carried out on 'Witney's' and 'Guy's' sections. All the fencing material is on hand and the seedlings for 1996 planting are on order and paid for.

The expenditure to date on fencing materials, seedlings (95/96), and tree guards (95) has cost $1,830. The balance of $169, will be spent on tree guards and freight. It is intended to plant 500 seedlings on Witney's and Guy's sections (see photos), in conjunction with the 1,500 seedlings to be planted on the 'Springfield' section with the recently received Government grant.

======

Book Reviews

There is so much written information to digest, lot's of it good and helping to inform us, to promote best practice and to stay viable in the Landcare work we are undertaking. It is easy to fill this column every issue with book - publication reviews for your information.

An Environmental Handbook For The Mid Loddon District This excellent book produced by the local community with assistance of Save The Bush and DNRE is a model for similar publications in many regions in Victoria. It has a wealth of scientific and practical environmental information including the economic and other uses of environmental resources in the region. A must for landholders in the Mid Loddon district; highly recommended for others. Available from Paul Haw, Mid Loddon Tree Group at $12.00 copy (054 552 476).

Making Farm Trees Pay & Putting Back The Bush Two recent 60 page (ie. pretty skinny and easily read in one sitting!) workbooks which are also highly recommended are 'Making Farm Trees Pay' (Guest Editor: Rowan Reid) and 'Putting Back The Bush' (Guest Editor: Nan Oates). These workbooks were developed from the papers presented to a national conference on 'The Role of Trees in Sustainable Agriculture' held in 1991. Available from GAV at $7.99 copy plus $2 postage. (Phone (03) 9457 3024).

Native Pasture for Sustainable Agriculture This pamphlet provides a guide to the identification of numerous species of perennial native grasses which may usefully be encouraged and managed in pastures for their productivity. Available from Agriculture Victoria, Warren Vogel (060) 556 222 or Meredith Mitchell (060) 304 500.

Community Grasses Project Workshop Proceedings, Albury 1995 This workshop proceedings booklet looks at various aspects of '...low-input persistent palatable perennial grasses for already cleared uplands in the high rainfall recharge areas of the Murray-Darling Basin.' Available from Jo Millar, Charles Sturt University, Albury (060) 418 983.

Farm Forestry Explained The Department of Natural Resources and Environment has produced a new user-friendly information kit on all aspects of farm forestry. The Farm Forestry Extension Kit is a practical guide for landholders starting out on tree growing ventures.

Experts from around Australia have contributed information for the kit which attempts to answer Landholders 'most asked questions.' The kit includes sections on:

• Legislation and planning controls • Species selection and establishment • Management • Current costs

24 The kit comes in a sturdy ringbound folder and can be expanded as detailed chapters on additional species and topics are produced. It is a valuable information resource which looks at the practicalities, potential and realities of farm forestry.

Kits are available from the Outdoors Information Centre at 240 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, 3002. Telephone (03) 9412 4795.

Blue-green Algae and Nutrients in Victoria - A Resource Handbook This new resource handbook has been produced as part of Victoria's Nutrient Management Strategy. The Strategy was developed in response to the emerging problems associated with toxic blooms of blue-green algae in Victoria. It recognises that nutrient enrichment (principally phosphorous and nitrogen) of inland water is a major cause of algal blooms.

The Resource Handbook provides background information on:

• blue-green algae and the problems they cause; • factors causing algal blooms, particularly nutrients; • nutrient dynamics, particularly phosphorous and nitrogen; • diffuse, point and internal sources of nutrients; • techniques for controlling nutrient sources, including information on available best management practice guidelines; • statutory control of nutrients; and • the catchment analysis process.

Action to reduce nutrient levels and algal blooms in Victorian waterbodies is required at both statewide and local level. This handbook is a valuable reference document for communities, government agencies and educational groups involved in algal bloom and nutrient management by providing general information to assist in the management of nutrient and algal blooms.

Copies of the Resource Handbook ($12.00 per copy plus $4.00 postage) can be obtained from the Outdoor Centre, Department of Natural Resources and Environment at 240 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, 3002. Queries should be directed to the Outdoor Centre on (03) 9412 4158.

For further information about nutrient management, contact either your local water quality/nutrient management officer, or your Department of Natural Resource and Environment (DNRE) catchment coordinator.

25 Issue 2

Victorian Landcare Magazine

Issue 2, Summer 1996

______

From the Editors

Welcome to the second issue of the Victorian Landcare Magazine

The magazine was launched amidst much excitement by the Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Marie Tehan at the State Landcare Conference held in Ballarat in early October.

We have been delighted by the positive feedback on the magazine we received at the conference, (see our special conference feature on pages 16 and 17) and from readers in general.

In this issue we have tried to include more stories from the farmer and the landcare group perspective. This magazine belongs to the landcare community, to be successful we need your comments, news, stories and letters.

There have been some hiccups with the merging of databases to create the magazine's mailing list. We apologise if you received multiple copies, or maybe none at all. Please let us know so we can make the necessary corrections.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The editors,

Paul Crock, Greg King and Carri Tiffany

======

Sharing the cost of rural restoration

An attempt is being made by one of Australia's major natural resource managers to address the vexing question of who should pay to fix Australia's growing land degradation.

The Murray Darling Basin Commission (MDBC) has prepared a discussion paper which it hopes will provide a basis for better informed debate on whether paying for sustainable natural resource management is a private, public or shared responsibility among landholders, the community and Governments.

The paper provides one option for a principled and objective approach to determining the public and private benefits of on-ground works, such as revegetation and fencing-off sensitive areas.

The President of the Murray Darling Basin Commission, Professor John Lovering says that experience in irrigation areas has shown that agreement to cost sharing for on-ground works can be a powerful catalyst to drive the large on-ground changes necessary to improve the quality of water flowing from irrigation areas into rivers.

1 Issue 2

He said that experience with some dryland Integrated Catchment Management (ICM) Plans indicated that dryland landholders would support cost sharing negotiations based on a "beneficiary pays" approach which incorporates the principle that a government contribution to on-ground works would be made relative to the level of public benefit.

The MDBC wants individuals and organisations involved in developing and implementing ICM plans to comment on the Cost Sharing Framework so it can determine whether to endorse it as a preferred approach to cost sharing for ICM plans within the Basin.

Copies of the report are available from the MDBC, GPO Box 409, Canberra, ACT 2601 Tel: (06) 279 0100.

======

Minister announces $3m boost for Landcare

Photo Illustration Minister for Conservation and Land Management Marie Tehan.

The Victorian Government has announced a $3 million funding boost for Landcare under the "Landcare Partnership Initiative 2000".

The funding boost coincides with the 10th anniversary of Landcare in Victoria, celebrated in Ballarat last month.

Conservation and Land Management Minister Marie Tehan told 350 delegates at the conference that Victoria's prosperity was directly linked to the effective management of natural resources.

"Landcare plays a vital role in the management, restoration and protection of these natural resources, and the State Government is committed to supporting these programs through sustainable agriculture and land management policies, strengthened by on-ground funding."

Mrs Tehan said the $3 million included $1.55 million for on-ground community projects on a sub-catchment, catchment or regional basis.

"Victoria's 10 catchment and land protection boards have recently announced their draft regional catchment strategies which will help set directions and priorities for integrated natural resource management. This funding will assist Landcare groups to target priority issues identified in the strategies."

A further $1.2 million would be available to fund the appointment of community-based regional Landcare group coordinators, Mrs Tehan said.

"These people will assist with group formation, skill development, information exchange and develop networks with other programs and organisations."

She called on business to get behind Landcare and contribute through Landcare Foundation Victoria to sponsor projects.

2 Issue 2

Mrs Tehan said $110,000 would be allocated to the Landcare Victoria Foundation 1996-97 and 1997-98, including $50,000 to match private sector funding and $60,000 to fund the secretariat during the next two years.

The Landcare Foundation is the Victorian Committee of Landcare Australia Limited and has a charter to obtain sponsorship funding for Landcare projects in Victoria. The committee is lead by Melbourne City Councillor Wellington Lee and involves business and Landcare representatives.

"The Government relies strongly on its partnership with the community and by involving more private sector organisations we can continue to build on Landcare's success in rural and urban areas," Mrs Tehan said.

For further information about the Landcare Partnership Initiative contact your regional office of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

======

Waterwatch Victoria best net site in the country!

Photo Illustration John Steele from Mansfield Secondary College and Vera Lubczenko, the Victorian Waterwatch Co-ordinator with the Waterwatch Victoria Internet Awards.

"It was like winning the Logies," Vera Lubczenko was raving after the Waterwatch Victoria Internet Site scooped the pool at the Australian Financial Review/Telstra Inaugural Australian Internet Awards.

From a total of more than 600 entries, Waterwatch Victoria won both the Community and Special Interest and Secondary Education categories. The awards recognise excellence in Internet design and application.

Vera Lubczenko, the co-ordinator of the Victorian Waterwatch Program brought the site to life in July 1996. It is another facet of the Victorian statewide Waterwatch program which provides technical, curriculum and funding co-ordination as well as co-ordination in communication.

Vera said the site provides information, and a forum area where groups are encouraged to share information about projects, events, findings, equipment. "It uses innovative graphics and animation, and has a state of the art 'chat' or forum area.

"Although we have only been live for three months, the site has attracted a huge amount of interest with around 3,500 visitors weekly. The Herald Sun highlighted it as a 'hot site' and it featured at a recent community water quality monitoring conference held in the United States," she said.

Vera said the awards were extra special because Waterwatch is a community project. "We have nothing to sell or promote expect our knowledge and the desire to get as many people as possible involved in water quality."

"The Victorian Waterwatch site is one of a number of Waterwatch Internet sites being developed, including a Waterwatch Australia parent site. The sites provide the potential

3 Issue 2 share information about community water quality monitoring, locally, regionally and internationally," she said.

Gregory Hywood, Publisher-Editor in Chief of The Australian Financial Review, said that the competition had been an enormous success, substantially raising the awareness of the Australian Internet community both locally and internationally.

"The Awards are an ideal outlet to pay tribute to the outstanding developments taking place in this country and the competition will now be conducted on an annual basis. The winners and all finalists in the inaugural competition were of world-class standard and are a credit to our local developers." he said.

The Waterwatch Internet site was launched by the Deputy Premier, Pat McNamara and the Treasurer and Minister for Multimedia, Alan Stockdale at the Interact Expo in October.

Planning your National Landcare Program Application (NLP)

Now is the time to start planning your National Landcare Program (NLP) funding applications for 1997/1998.

The call for NLP projects is likely to occur in January 1997 and applications will close 6-8 weeks later.

Some landcare groups already have goals and objectives and know what kinds of projects will help meet their needs. NLP applications should help meet the goals of your group and be consistent with your Regional Catchment and Land Protection Board’s Regional Catchment Strategy.

Some of the projects that were successful in the 1996/97 NLP round included:

• Actions to protect and repair riparian vegetation. • Demonstrationsof sustainble farming management systems. • Aerial photography as a basis for planning catchment management by a landcare network. • Identification and management of saline soils. • GIS for sub-catchment assessment of soil problems and weed infestations, as well as workshops to communicate the results to groups. • Demonstrations on maximising crop and pasture water use.

Planning your application can also help with the problem of “getting the money too late.”

At present it is not known what funding is available for 1997/98 but it may well be September/October or even November before the necessary agreements can be signed. Keep this in mind when planning your application. If your group wants to plan trees the funding may not be available until Autumn or the following Spring.

Assistance with preparing grant applications is available from local landcare group coordinators, and Department of Natural Resource & Environment Landcare Facilitators. Departmental NLP contact officers will be able to assist you in clarifying guidelines for eligibility.

Members of your local Catchment and Land Protection Board should also be able to offer assistance.

4 Issue 2

======

Water Grants Launched Hills 2 Ocean

The South Gippsland Region Water Authority has launched a grants scheme aimed at helping landowners within water supply catchment areas in South Gippsland.

The H2O grants scheme was launched at the South Gippsland Landcare Network meeting in July, by the Authority's Chief Executive Officer, Steve Evans.

Mr Evans said, "the idea is to make funds available for projects that will improve the quality of water running off the land into water supplied.

"The Authority is working with landcare and Waterwatch because these community-based groups share a common interest in water quality which relies on good land management. Revegetation, including tree planting, stabilisation of stream beds, fencing and off-stream stock watering systems are examples of projects that could attract one of these grants."

Two grants of $500 each will be announced at the quarterly South Gippsland Network meetings. Applications for grants will be judged by the Authority with representatives from Landcare, Waterwatch and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

For a grant application form or more information, contact the Authority's Environment Officer, Max Thomas on 056 821 222.

======

Donald's flying eye

Photo Illustrations Trevor Campbell became involved in the aerial video project through his love of flying.

Trevor Campbell from Donald, (L) and John Boadle from St Arnaud have been working together to get the aerial video system ready for landcare groups.

Three friends from Donald, in north west Victoria, are on the lookout for a Cessna - 172 plane door. Trevor Campbell, and Neil Postlethwaite, cropping farmers, and John Boadle, from Natural Resources and Environment at St Arnaud, have been working together over the past four years to get an aerial video system up and running.

Having spent much time perfecting the technical aspects of the system, and choosing a digital video camera, Trevor, John and Neil now need a plane door to fix the camera to.

"Then the camera and door can be attached to any plane," said John. "Most country airports have a Cessna available for hire and any landcare group can easily use our system."

Trevor, Neil and John say their aerial video approach goes hand in hand with precision farming and they will use the video images in conjunction with yield mapping to detect crop variation. trial and error

5 Issue 2

The inspiration for the system was ignited about ten years ago. Neil Postlethwaite had been wanting to do crop monitoring for a long time.

"Dad and I flew up to Moree in the mid eighties to buy a header, and when we came home we flew over the farm. We were surprised by what you cloud see. We hired a plane and started taking photos in different ways. First we took them out the plane window which was no good and then we tried taking them using a plane with a hole in the floor, which was better."

Trevor continues, "I'd been looking at the farm from the air for twenty years, and my memory just didn't do the job. I started to get interested in taking photos from the air, and that's when I got together with Postlethwaite. In 1992 our local discussion group went on a trip to Neville Sharpe's in South Australia. He was using video and infra-red and that started us thinking about it."

The flying video camera project is driven by the Avon-Richardson Salinity Management Plan Implementation Working Group. Trevor, who is Chairman of the group, explains the philosophy behind the project.

"Our group's aim is to use the rain where it falls. Up here, we must grow the best possible crops we can, so we can keep the watertable down. This also makes economic sense."

Funding for the purchase of the equipment will come from a number of Landcare Groups. Donald Landcare Group, together with Landcare Groups from Charlton, Swanwater, Birchip, and Watchem West are all willing to put money in to set the project up. These Landcare groups will then hire the outfit to other interested groups.

======

Landcare from the AIR by Tess Goodwin

Photo Illustration An aerial flight picked up this outbreak of flowering raddish missed by a spray contractor.

Trouble Spots in the paddock The beauty of the flying video camera, is that it identifies trouble spots in a paddock. "Usually when you have a look at your paddock, you go in the gate or get over the fence where the barbed wire is broken, or at the side of the road where you stop your car, and you end up looking at the same spot every year," Neil said.

We had a paddock with a bad infestation of pasture lufers the other year," said Neil. "The lufers wiped out the crop in an area that we hadn't walked. More recently we spotted an infestation of aphids by looking at an infra red photo and so we got a plane out the next day to spray them."

John predicts big savings for users of the aerial video technique in the future. "By targeting spraying or fertiliser application to the areas that can be identified from the photos, the costs will drop enormously." said John. "This will also have add on environmental benefits."

The optimum time to use the aerial video technique is in the growing season, once the crop is establish. Around October it can be used to check for insect attacks, and it has also proved very effective to assist with soil mapping in the summer months. "A lot of farmers in

6 Issue 2 the past who used conventional cultivation had a good understanding of what their soils were like," said Neil. "But in our situation, using minimum tillage, we aren't involved with the soil as much, and so we need to take a look at it from the air."

Aerial video - how does it work? A TV viewer is mounted on the plane's dashboard, next to a Global Positioning System (GPS). Two people are needed in the plane - one to fly it and one to record their position and keep an eye on the video equipment. Usually the farmer will also go up for a ride and let the pilot know exactly where his paddock is.

Once the required paddocks are captured on video, the tapes are either viewed through a VCR, or individual frames can be scanned, and prints produced through a computer.

The technique is a very flexible tool and can also be used to look at soil compaction, stubble burning, soil fertility, and salinity.

Work has already been done on identifying salinity trouble spots along channels. It has huge potential for mapping fox dens and rabbit burrows. It even shows how stock graze a paddock.

======

Powlett Volunteers play the tune

Photo Illustrations The blustery conditions lifted for an enjoyable BBQ lunch for the orchestra provided by Wonthaggi Rotary.

Scott Brain discusses species selection on the banks of the Powlett River with Landcare Australia board member Margaret Scott from Western Australia and volunteers from BHP.

Martin Fuller, Bass Landcare Coordinator points out the magnitude of the project to Sir James Hardie, Chairman of the National Landcare Foundation.

The Powlett Patron and Minister for Transport the Hon. Alan Brown presents Michael Power president of the Bass Valley Landcare Group with a copy of the new Telstra Landcare Communications Pack.

The second weekend of November saw the start of what will become a regular event on the Landcare calendar. Over 200 volunteers from across the state and the world congregated in the Powlett River Catchment in South Gippsland to plant nearly 30,000 trees from the upper reaches of the catchment to the sea.

Kate Walsh, Greening Australia's Gippsland facilitator summed up the efforts of the organisers and volunteers in her speech following a lavish BBQ lunch on the Sunday:

"We are very fortunate in Gippsland. We have the National Landcare Primary Producer Award winners, Tom and Sue Loughridge.

Tom and Sue and the Jeetho West Landcare Group, have shown us that conservation can be combined with highly productive dairy farming.

7 Issue 2

With other pioneering Landcare groups such as Archies Creek, they have set a theme, written a tune. A theme of agricultural productivity, water quality, habitat and a friendly co- operative community.

Now, with the Powlett Project, covering a whole catchment, we have brought in a full symphony orchestra to play the theme.

During our planning meetings, I couldn't help thinking what a brilliant conductor Rob Youl is. Rob did a magnificent job bringing us all together, facilitating, catalysing and incorporating our different melodies.

But someone has to make sure that everything actually happens on the ground. Bass Landcare coordinator, Martin Fuller, along with other local Landcare coordinators, Scott Brain and David Zeibell and other Department of Natural Resources and Environment staff, have been working on all the details - making sure chairs and musicians are in the right place and the instruments are finely tuned. There has been an enormous amount of behind the scenes work.

Singing the song we have the nurseries who have cooperated to produce a range of local forest and understory species suitable for each site - including our own Gippsland Mallee and the Strzelecki Swamp Gum. These nurseries are all dedicated revegetation specialists and invaluable assets to the Powlett Project.

Then there are our talented and dedicated musicians - all of you and many more besides have been involved - farmers, volunteers - both local and international, local Shires, Powlett Primary School, Water Watch, Fly Fishermen, NRCL, Tree Project, Rotary, and other community groups - and very importantly, Landcare Australia and the sponsors who have supported us so well.

Are they violins playing in the Korumburra hills? Wind instruments perhaps? Brian Enbom and his team are planting back the Blue Gum forests in gullies and on landslips. This is Giant Earthworm country - did any volunteers hear them gurgle?

Archies Creek Reafforestation Group are continuing their superb riparian planting. I've walked through this baby forest with Mick Bolding and Paul Speirs and, where there was once a degraded stream, I've seen fish swimming in crystal clear water.

In the Mid Powlett the river is being renovated with willow removal, fencing and planting. For farmers it's been a long wet winter with frequent flooding and this Powlett project is a fitting way to celebrate the spring. Hopefully Robert Atkinson will once again see platypus in the river.

At Lance Creek there has been more planting as well as Ragwort control. Weed control is crucial in maintaining production and conservation values.

I guess we're getting into percussion once we reach the coast. This site is in the flight path of the threatened Orange Bellied Parrot as it migrates between Tasmania and the mainland. The parrots rely on coastal saltmarsh and grasslands. Coast Action and ATCV have been planting, removing litter and collecting seed for future dune stabilisation.

Clive Hollins and the Angling Club have been planting salt tolerant melaleuca around the wetlands at the mouth of the river.

That is only some of the orchestra.

8 Issue 2

The Powlett Project has catalysed enormous action within the catchment and will inspire further work - not only here but statewide, perhaps Australia wide. It has brought city and country together and has benefited the entire community. Thank you for all you have done and for being a part of this symphony orchestra.

For more information contact: Martin Fuller (056) 743 516.

======

Camels Trek for Water Week

Photo Illustration Students from Shepparton South Secondary College testing water from the junction of the Murray and Goulbourn Rivers.

So what's the link between camels and Water Week? As a lead up to National Water Week, October 20-25, and the 40th anniversary of the construction of the Eildon Weir, seven camels travelled from the junction of the Goulbourn and Murray Rivers, just east of Echuca, to Eildon Weir.

The trekkers stopped at schools along the way for activities relating to water with 2,000 local students. They collected water from the Goulbourn River and tributaries and tested it for salinity, turbidity, pH and temperature.

The students report on each day's activities and the test results were posted on the Internet by the Shepparton Science and Technology Centre for waterwatchers and others to follow the progress of the camels.

The Minister for Land Management, Marie Tehan met the trekkers when they arrived at Eildon. She tipped a water sample that had been collected from the start of the trek into the weir and thereby officially launched National Water Week.

By all accounts the trek was a huge success. It raised awareness in the whole community of water quality issues and the wonderful work of students who monitor their local waterways. The camel trek showed how the old world can meet the new. The camels, water carters from ancient times were broadcast around the globe by the technology of the future, the Internet.

To visit the site on the Internet go to http://www.netc.net.au/stc/camel.html. Here are some extracts from the Internet diary of the camel trek:

Day 1 - 9th October, 1996 MORNING - Stewart's Bridge, near Echuca The Camel Trek started this morning near the confluence of the Goulbourn and the Murray River. The Principal of the Science and Technology Centre in Shepparton, Mr Ralph Shaw took a water sample from the Goulbourn River. It was tested by students from Shepparton South Secondary College and then loaded onto the camels to be carried back to Eildon Weir.

The students entered the test results directly onto the Internet with a laptop computer and a mobile phone then the camels were waved off on their journey.

9 Issue 2

Confluence of Goulbourn and Murray Rivers Turbidity 42NTU's (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) Conductivity 100 EC's Temperature (degree's C) 17.5

AFTERNOON - Wyuna, near Kyabram The Camels visited the property of Peter Bedford of Wyuna where Goulbourn Murray Landcare Network were running a filed day for local farmers, demonstrating the achievements of the Watertable Watch Program and other community monitoring programs.

The arrival of the camels stopped the field day in its tracks, irrigators from right across Australia were fascinated by the spectacle.

Students from Echuca tested water from the Campaspe River and compared it with the water Quality in the Goulbourn River. The students found the Campaspe River to be more saline than the Goulbourn River, but less turbid.

Campaspe River Turbidity 25NTU's Conductivity 230 EC's Temperature (degree's C) 16

Day 2 - 10th October, 1996 AFTERNOON - Mooroopna Primary School Today we were visited by the camels from the Water Week trek. The camels come from Steve and Lise who own a camel farm near Mansfield called High Country Camel Treks.

A camel has 8 toes, two on each foot and carry fat in their hump. They weigh 300 kilos and it takes 12 months to have a calf. Humans live twice as long as camels. In the desert they live longer than in captivity. There are 220 varieties of food they can eat in the desert. Their top teeth are very sharp so they can eat grass in the tree tops.

The camels are camping near the swamp and are giving rides for $3.00. Abdul the oldest, has been around for 16 years, Hannah for 8 years and Humphrey for 3 years.

David Hodgkins gave a talk to six groups of children at our school about water catchments. We did a turbidity test for the water from the Goulbourn River near Mooroopna. It was 30 NTU's.

By Alana Hellwege and Mathew Garthwaite from Mooroopna Primary School.

Goulbourn River Shepparton Turbidity 29 NTU's Conductivity 90 EC's Temperature (degree's C) 16

======

Salinity, another challenge for North east Victoria By Gib Wettenhall

Overview

10 Issue 2

Fine wool merinos and black beef cattle grazing on lush, green hillsides, framed by the snow-covered peaks of the Victorian Alps. Such idyllic, picture postcard, pastoral scenes are a common sight in the Ovens, Kiewa and Mitta catchments of north east Victoria.

But there is a serpent lying hidden in this Eden. Below the surface, groundwater levels are rising between 20 cm and 100 cm per year.

"The highest known rates of rise in the state," says Denis Martin, the regional facilitator for Greening Australia and the chairman of the North east Salinity Working Group.

North east Victoria wasn't supposed to have a problem with salinity. It was high rainfall country with over 600 mm annually - enough to leach the salt away, or so the theory went. But with the removal of vegetation coverage over the last century the groundwater has risen as steadily as water rising in a bath. Salt patches are starting to pop up all over the region.

"The area of salt affected land has increased tenfold over the last five years, from 250 ha in 1993/94 to a current estimate of 2,500 ha," says Denis.

A bore on a knoll near the Everton Upper Primary School exposes the story hidden below ground. In 1987, the groundwater was 10 metres below the surface. Today, it is four metres and still rising.

Twenty members of the Hodgsons and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Groups are gathered at the Everton Primary School. They have just taken part in a meeting to distribute chemicals for roadside weed control.

Many are immediately on their guard when Denis Martin arrives and says he has brought a journalist along to see what steps they are taking to reverse the creeping salinity.

"We're sick of doom and gloom from the media," a voice from the surrounding ring of landholders says with feeling. "Salt is just another challenge to be overcome," another voice asserts. "It's just one of many," they chorus.

The 50 members of the Hodgsons and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Group, along with similar numbers in surrounding landcare groups, constitute the frontline in the battle against salinity.

Close as a too-small rural school, the Upper Everton Primary School has gained a new lease of life as the headquarters for the Hodgsons and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Groups, which covers an area of 18,000 ha stretching from Beechworth to Wangaratta.

The demise of the Upper Everton Primary School is symptomatic of the decline of community facilities in the country. Its continuity as a headquarters for one of the last rural networks linking landholders has a sense of symbolism which is not lost on the landcare groups' members.

A man of wry humour, Landcare coordinator Royce Sample comments that there are a lot of needs "out there" with precious else left to fill them other than landcare. A mid-western American by birth, he's seen it all before in the dust storms of Oklahoma.

In Oklahoma, the community pulled together and turned the land degradation around. "Victoria's very similar to Oklahoma in many ways," says Royce. "We can do it here too."

11 Issue 2

Landcare projects have encouraged and resourced many demonstrations aimed at halting salinity. Some of these projects are highlighted in this special feature of Victorian Landcare.

"We hope to have a snowball effect from demonstrations like these," says Denis Martin.

======

Lindsay Humphry: Agroforestry on a recharge site

Lindsay Humphry's father knocked the trees down. Lindsay's planting them. It's an increasingly common tale.

Chairman of the Springhurst and Byawatha Hills Landcare Group in North east Victoria, Lindsay estimates that there are 90 landholders in the district planting trees compared with only two or three 15 years ago.

With Land Protection Incentive Scheme (LPIS) funding, Lindsay put in a 15 ha agroforest block on a hilltop recharge site. "I couldn't see the sense in just growing trees for their own sake," he remarked.

The vigorously growing agroforestry belts stretch down either side of the paddock. Three rows wide, Lindsay planted a mix of tube stock from local provenance as well as native imports, with the dominant species being Red and Yellow Box, Red Gum and Ironbark.

Acacias on the outside rows provide habitat and their root systems are less invasive of the pasture. The acacias were direct seeded by adapting a vegetable seeder.

Three piezometers on site demonstrate there has been a substantial two meter lowering of the watertable.

Conventional fencing is needed to keep out stock in the early years. "If they get in the wrong time, they can do a lot of damage," Lindsay remarked.

Even when the trees have reached sufficient height, allowing sheep into the agroforestry belts for more than a week or so will spoil their shelter effect, Lindsay pointed out. Sheep will eat the trees to knee height, creating a wind tunnel at ground level. Although Lindsay has found through experience that there are some trees - such as the Golden Wattle, (Acacia pycnantha) and Varnish Wattle (Acacia verniciflua) - which sheep won't touch.

======

Ron Briggs: Revegetation from remnants

A mountain cattleman who bought into the plains country, Ron Briggs, has learnt to value trees. Plentiful as they were in the high country, he had always taken the ready availability of trees for granted. His attitude changed with the discovery of salt patches on his property in 1993.

"Denis took me under his wing," remembers Ron, who is now treasurer of the Hodgsons and Horseshoe Creek Landcare Group. As a previous coordinator of the landcare group, Denis Martin sourced funds to plant out a recharge area of some 20 acres on the hilltop with indigenous species. Funding through Land Protection Incentive Scheme (LPIS) also helped

12 Issue 2 fence off four remnant patches of Red Box and Red Stringybark for regeneration as plantations. Removing stock grazing pressure by fencing seems to be the key to wide- spread regeneration. "All I had to do was fence it off," was how Ron described his success.

In areas reclaimed from pasture or areas fenced to protect trees, it is important to control weeds and vermin. "You can't just fence and forget," Ron said. Ron has sown the remaining area to a mixture of phalaris, cocksfoot and clover. The combination of trees and deep- rooted pasture helps dry out the soil profile and prevent excess water reaching the watertable.

Ron has found that the shelter offered by the trees helps his cattle: "Especially in winter when its dirty and cold, and the wind would cut you in two."

======

1996 State Land care Conference

Comments "We started planting trees on our property for cattle, however we kept on going, realising the benefit of tree planting for countering erosion." - Tome and Sue Loughridge.

"People in the wool industry need to take control of their own future, not rely on things out there to change." - Heather Shaw.

"when we were farming traditionally our farm became like a drug addict. The more we put in the more the land demanded to achieve a satisfactory yield." - Bill Twig.

"Landcare has always been good business. Good farmers don't have landcare problems and the markets are moving towards rewarding them through QA systems." - Russell Sully.

"Our biggest task is to modify grower attitudes through education and training." - Lionel Ward.

"We arranged for an explosives technician to give a very dramatic demonstration on the only method to destroy burrows under large granite boulders." - Mark Lee.

"If it is a question of increasing milk production versus environment and natural resource management restraints what would be your response?" - Ian Wood.

"through landcare we have a valuable network giving access to the best information and programs available to landholders for a sustainable future." - Peter Miles.

"The challenge is to repackage the art of technology transfer to make it palatable to all growers regardless of their level of skill." - Greg Rankin.

"At the conference I discovered some new things that are working in landcare that have not been tried in my area." - Landcare Group member, Gippsland.

"We need to create some mess and confusion on the otherwise ordered landscape if we are to quickly attract the range of birds, animals and insects to commence to long haul back to a balanced ecosystem." - John Fenton.

13 Issue 2

"Participation is now at 68% up from 38% in 1993. Yet in the big picture we've only just started implementing what we need to do." - Kevin Knight.

Proceedings from the conference will be sent to all participants in December. Jo Safstrom from DNRE is co-ordinating the preparation proceedings, she can be contacted on (03) 9412 4382.

Conference Outcomes

This is a summary of the key outcomes and comments made by participants at the State Landcare Conference in Ballarat during early October.

The Participants recommended that the outcomes of the conference should be published in the new Landcare magazine. Here they are, there is plenty of food for thought.

The Victorian Landcare Magazine would value your suggestions on how we can follow-up these comments and outcomes with useful stories and articles.

The Conference Management Committee is currently drawing together the outcomes of the conference for action by the Catchment and Land Protection Advisory system.

OUTCOMES Edited by Mal Brown

• Tourism is an opportunity waiting to happen to landcare. We need a costed 100 year plan for landcare. We need to understand the scale of the problems and solutions. • Diversity makes farms both happy and healthy. • Values need to be brought back to our wastelands, roads and remnant vegetation. A positive dynamic peak body is needed for landcare. • Safeguards are needed to ensure that a production focus doesn't obliterate landcare outcomes. • Provide each area with professional signs giving a 1800 number for access to regional landcare information. • Know your community - they are not homogeneous. • Create the landcare ethic in urban communities. Get urban communities involved in eco tourism. Increase urban publicity. • Facilitators can be a force to bring in new players. • Communication is a two way process. Where are we going to, and why? How can I get there? • To get corporate sponsorship, the sponsors need to know what's in it for them. • Corporate sponsorship is good because landcare groups become more responsible for money rather than expecting it from government. • Change the extension model. We can no longer assume that everyone is a full time farmer. • Training keeps the group fresh and skilled up. It helps better planning and communication. • Incorporate messages through projects or themes like Project Platypus. • Encourage Property Management Plans and integrate landcare into the natural resource management component. • Local government should be more involved in landcare; but it is up to us top make it happen. • Simple incentives, like rate rebates, can produce big results. • New people to the district should be treated as an opportunity not a problem.

14 Issue 2

• Local government should maintain and promote information on land capability and land use zones. • The focus in the wool industry should be to manage the farm as a system, and the sub- systems within it. • Quality assurance is a positive force for change. • There are many dimensions to sustainability: finance, succession, landscape. • We don't understand sustainability. • When adopting best management practices, accept that we will make mistakes. But, keep on making progress. • Cannot avoid each individual's cold hard learning curve, but you can make it less damaging to the environment. • Realistic dreams are the first thing needed by small scale farmers. • Use structured adjustment funds to allow buy back so that families can exit rural ghettos with dignity. This will reduce the social, environmental and economic costs. • Enforcement must be available as an option. • Does the dairy industry really understand the productivity vs sustainability dilemma? • The Government needs to communicate its commitment to landcare, particularly given the reductions in services and staff. • Stop wasting time in National Landcare Program funding and get jobs on the ground.

======

Landcare Links - Bringing Landcare and Schools Together By Tarnya Kruger

Photo illustration Students from Ballarat High School fulfilling a 'work requirement' on a farm near Creswick.

Landcare Links is a project proposal which aims to match the needs and priorities of landcare groups with skills, enthusiasm and curriculum of local educational institutions. The coordinator is Gayl Morrow, a past participant of the Landcare for Education Course working with Tarnya and Trish from the Creswick Landcare Centre.

Gayl is currently surveying landcare groups and schools in the Ballarat area to find out what they are doing in the landcare area, what needs to be done and to begin planning for the future. The survey will provide data on the current levels and types of involvement which will help with evaluation down the track. We would like to see the centre operating as a catalyst, assisting schools and Landcare groups in working together on projects for the region.

Landcare Centre a catalyst A good example of the way the project would work came about just recently. The Creswick Landcare Centre was approached by three Year 11 students from Ballarat High School hoping to be able to fulfil a work requirement for English, a 'communication project'. The girls were interested in organising a tree planting day, they would 'recruit' a class if we could suggest a farm or location that needed assistance in such an activity.

Six weeks later, the school bus rolled up to Colin Loader's farm near Cattle Station north- west of Creswick - with 16 'volunteer' Year 10 students, two enthusiastic teachers and the three instigators.

The three students demonstrated to the group the finer parts of tree planting. The ground was very wet at the time so we all squelched around in teams of three busily planting. In

15 Issue 2 around three hours two major shelter beds and a rocky section of the farm were planted - over six hundred trees!

"that was cool..." The day was a great success. Without any prodding the students came out with statements like "that was cool", "had a terrific time", "great to do it again", "it will be good to see the trees grow", a couple of students even talked about agriculture and conservation as career options.

The Year 11 students undoubtedly completed their work requirement and positive interaction resulted amongst the students, teachers, the farmer and us. The school is keen to follow on in the future with similar activities.

We hope to see many more of these events happening. The Landcare Links project will endeavour to map out possibilities for increasing involvement throughout the Ballarat community. This information should prove to be useful and adaptable for other regions around the state.

For further information contact Tarnya Kruger at the Creswick Landcare Centre on (053) 452 200.

======

Regent Honeyeater Project Takes off at Lurg By Ray Thomas

After months of intensive effort, the on-ground action to save the Regent Honey Eater is really starting to show at Lurg and surrounding districts. Landholders in the Molyullah- Tatong and Greta Valley Landcare areas are committing themselves to a major project to protect and restore the last fragments of the Ironbark forest which once covered the entire foothill slopes from Gelnrowan West to Kilfeera.

Despite the serious dieback and mistletoe infestations, this district is one of three critical habitat areas in Victoria for the endangered Regent Honeyeater. The birds arrive in winter each year to feed on the flowering Ironbarks but we are losing the old habitat trees at an alarming rate. With only 1000 to 1500 of these birds left in the world, it is a really important issue.

LEAP people spread the word Nine local schools, a group of unemployed young people, the Young Landcare Project and DNRE's Land For Wildlife program have all been involved in an effort to assist local landholders with the work. It is a nationally significant project which will show the way for other communities to help endangered wildlife while at the same time improving farm productivity.

During the first half of 1996, the schools and young people on a LEAP scheme propagated thousands of indigenous trees and shrubs to create a better habitat for the local wildlife, including several species which are endangered. The LEAP members also became expert fencing contractors and developed skills as community educators through their efforts to spread the good news around and get others involved in the action.

To ensure strong community participation, all activities during 1995/96 have been aimed at addressing issues that the landholders or teachers themselves see to be important. Rather

16 Issue 2 than asking already busy people to help the poor honeyeaters, the focus is essentially "What's in it for me?" By tackling issues which local people care about, this project is demonstrating the way to stimulate large scale community participation; ... and this has major importance for endangered species.

Serious Dieback Problems Visits to properties on a one to one basis have given me every opportunity to address farmers' concerns and present ideas on how the Regent Honeyeater project will be of benefit to farm productivity and sustainable agriculture. Assisting people to understand and address the serious dieback problems throughout the district is giving an open door to protect old trees for habitat because farmers don't want to lose the trees they still have left.

And the approach is working well! Generous responses from almost 100% of local landholders in the district have led to many projects to fence and restore Box-Ironbark remnants on private land. A at June 1996, about 25 km of fencing is either completed or in progress on 35 properties, and there are many other landholders still to visit.

At present the project is gearing up for 6 major planting days involving the local Landcare group, 8 local schools, a new LEAP group, university conservation groups, church groups from Melbourne, service clubs, scouts and guides, retired people, and the Shire is helping with free accommodation for the city visitors. It's a fantastic response from a whole community and we have nearly 15,000 student -n grown indigenous plants to put in the ground in the next few weeks.

For more information contact Ray Thomas or Fran Sorenson on (057) 611 680.

======

New Powerline Vegetation Management Code for Victoria By John B Mewton

Powerline vegetation management in Victoria entered a new era in October this year when the Code of Practice for Powerline Clearance [Vegetation] 1996 came into operation.

The Code seeks to achieve a balance between electrical safety and fire prevention, whilst retaining and enhancing conservation and environmental.

The dimension required for the Clearance Space, which must be maintained clear of vegetation at all times, has not been altered from the previous code.

A new term 'Regrowth Space' has been introduced. Pruning and clearing within this area is subject to consideration of growth patterns of individual tree species, soil conditions and the local environment.

Roadside vegetation adjoining farms is now subject to consultation and negotiation with the adjoining landholder in a similar way to vegetation on the farm. Written agreement from the landholder should be obtained before any vegetation is cut or removed.

In emergency situations a distribution company may cut vegetation if it is encroaching into the Clearance Space, but only to remove the vegetation from the Clearance Space.

17 Issue 2

Landholders must give approval before any chemicals are used, this is essential to protect on farm quality assurance programs and to prevent chemical residues entering the food chain.

The new Code requires consideration of alternative engineering solutions, if and when appropriate, to tree pruning and/or removal. In most cases a 'common sense' approach to vegetation management in the vicinity of a powerline will deliver the required result.

If agreement cannot be reached the electricity supply distribution company has a dispute resolution process mechanism in place. This in effect means that the complaint should be referred to a senior member of the company and if resolution cannot be achieved then the matter may be referred to a member of the Powerline Clearance Consultative Committee [PCCC] or the Office of the Chief Electrical Inspector [OCEI].

Copies of the Code can be obtained from Powercor, Eastern Energy, United Energy, Solaris and City Power, or from Information Victoria on 1800 136 762.

======

Woorndoo Group tackles salinity

Dryland salinity management and prevention and the improvement of waterlogged pastures is the focus of the Woorndoo Land Protection Group.

"Rising water tables and dryland salinity across the landscape has been our concern," said Mrs Flora Richardson, secretary of the group.

"We have seen increasing waterlogging and hillside seeps in our pastures," she added.

The President of the landcare group, Mr David Allen, said that the National Landcare Program had provided funding to assist in developing effective farm practices that reverse this degradation and improve the carrying capacity of the land.

The group has received the assistance of scientists from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE), and the Co-operative Research Centre for Soil & Land Management (CRC).

Drs Jim Cox and Rob Fitzpatrick from the CRC in Adelaide are using their experience from similar investigations in South Australia and Western Australia and have installed a set of piezometers and data loggers at the property of Barry and Judy Veale at "Glen Eynord", Woorndoo.

The data on water levels together with sampling, soil assessment and analysis will provide an understanding of hydrology in the landscape as a basis for long term drainage and management strategies.

The CRC scientists, in consultation with local landcare members, will prepare a soil assessment manual to assist land managers identify and manage saline and waterlogged layered soils in the Salt Creek catchment, Woorndoo.

The manual is expected to indicate options such as sites for surface interceptor drains, where to establish deep rooted perennial pastures, locations for tree planting, and sites for salt tolerant grasses and fencing in relation to grazing management.

18 Issue 2

Mrs Richardson said that the Landcare group had already examined a range of local soils to gain a better knowledge of what lay below the surface and would be running filed days early in 1997. Visitors were welcome to attend or to seek further information.

For further information contact Lee-anne Minten at DNRE, Hamilton (055 730700) or Mark Seeliger at the CRC in Adelaide (08 9303 8672).

======

"Robinson at Large" By Jim Robinson, Greening Australia Victoria (With Apologies to "Wheels")

Photo Illustrations Wattle trees produce many potential cash crops, including tannings for leather and wood adhesives, gums, seeds as human food, cut flowers, timber - all potentially value adding industries for regional Victoria.

Native wild flower industry based farm production has tremendous potential.

Which harvest will bring in the greatest nett returns in 2006?

A fanciful musing on where we and "sustainable agriculture" may be in 2006??

A fly on the wall in the year 2006 recently sent in this report of a conversation overheard between two farmers, Dave and Ron, in a pub at Donald one morning:

Ron: "Gidday, Dave. How are the crops looking?

Dave: Great - it's funny but I reckon this year my 10 hectares of Banksia and Drumstick (Craspedia globosa) flowers, 3 hectares of Old Man Weed (Centipedia cunninghamii) and 15 hectares of Broombush will earn me a greater bottom-line nett cash return than my 700 hectares of wheat, barley, weeping grass, chick peas, glycine and canola!

Ron: But that's only because you have taken that 350 odd hectares out of production and planted it Bulloak, Cypress Pine, Sandalwood and Ironbark timber plantations to help with the salinity recharge. And that Dillon Bush orchard in the salt scalds - I ask you!

Dave: Yeah, I know. And what's more, I'm planting another 30 hectares this year with that new Alcoa planter! It's great - put in 100,000 per day. But, gee, the watertable's continuing to drop on all my bores. We're only monitoring them every six months now, the trend is so solid. Look, I can't yak for too long - in a few minutes, I'm dropping off another load of wattle seed, muntries and yams from my alley farm blocks to the carrier to go to the new Bush Foods and Pharmaceutical’s factory at Charlton.

Ron: They make biscuits and bread from the wattle seed for the Japanese export market, don't they?

Dave: Yeah.

Ron: Where the hell is the new factory?

19 Issue 2

Dave: In the industrial estate between the Kangaroo abattoir and the Native Timbers Furniture factory and across the road from the Woollen Knitwear mill, the solar power engineer, the wattle tannin factory and the Eucalypt oil distillery. Bill Twigg, wearing his Minister for Sustainable Agriculture hat, officially opened it a couple of weeks back.

Ron: They tell me Bill's heading to Canberra - going for PM.

Dave: Yeah, Terry Simpson and that Walsh woman from Strzelecki are fighting over the state job.

Ron: Did I tell ya Les from the Aboriginal Co-op is helping to manage my 50 hectares of NVI Mk2 Conservation Reserve Levy bush blocks and to handle the landcare tourist buses.

Dave: Hey! That's the idea - my Conservation Reserve monthly payments are really adding to my tax problems these days! I should take on someone too, to help manage my remnant bush and reduce my tax at the same time! How's the horehound, smilax, foxes and rabbits?

Ron: All gone now I reckon. A bit of work each year by all members of the Southern Mallee and Wimmera Landcare Networks co-ordinated by the Department and the Shire Landcare Liaison woman, and bobs you're uncle! I've got stacks of Mallee Fowl now - they've bred up like mad. And mounds everywhere. The tourists like 'em though. Look, I must dash too - I'm taking the wife to work; she's nursing at the new hospital. Then I have to pick up the daughter from the Vinelander - Donald TAFE term starts next week. Then talk to the bank manager - they're hoping to borrow some money from me to fund the tourist trail extension. Then off to footy training.

Dave: You're playing for the Rovers now - who'd of thought they would be two footy teams in town a few years back, eh!

Ron: Hopefully another flag this year - then I'm giving it away - too old! How's the new ferrari going?

Dave: Great - better mileage from the Eucalypt-tea tree fuel blend than with the old petrol engines. That high oil yielding cultivar developed by the Department at Walpeup did the trick, I heard. The wife's a bit cheesed off though; she wanted to go on a round the world trip instead of getting a new car. It'll have to be next year now.

Ron: Bit different to things a few years back, eh, like in the 1980's and 90's. And workin' half the hours too! Who'd of thought, eh??"

======

New Chemical Regulations UPDATE By Dr Catherine Hollywell, Manager Chemical Standards Branch, Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Photo Illustration DNRE staff member demonstrating responsible spotspraying practice

Issue 1 of Victorian Landcare contained a report on new agricultural chemical control of use regulations which were introduced 1 August 1996. The article implied that users must have an insurance policy of at least $30,000, including liability cover, for property damage and bodily injury. This is not so.

20 Issue 2

The new controls only require users who are commercial operators to have insurance (commercial operators are defined as persons in the business of applying chemicals for fee or reward).

Victoria is the first state to have reviewed old chemical control legislation and introduced a new control system. Part of the new system requires users of a specific group of chemicals, ie, Schedule 7 dangerous poisons and ester formulations of 2,4-D, MCPA, Triclopyr and 2,4D-B (although no currently registered formulations of 2,4D-B are available), to gain training in the use of agricultural chemicals, have an Agricultural Chemical Users Permit (ACUP) and keep records of use of these products.

The chemicals that are being controlled under the new system have been targeted for several reasons. Foe example, the Schedule 7 dangerous poisons because of the level of concern raised in spraydrift cases. The ester formulations because of their inherent volatility and propensity to drift. Demonstrating to the broader community that these chemicals are being used carefully and safely will improve the chances of such chemicals remaining available in agriculture in the future.

Furthering good chemicals management Part of DNRE's role is to work with farmers to further their good chemicals management practices. During the first 12 months following the introduction of the new controls the emphasis on activity by Department staff with farmers will be on education and information. It is highly unlikely that during this period any person will be taken to task by DNRE about not having an ACUP. It is however important to understand why a new control system has been introduced.

Farmers being able to demonstrate good farm chemicals management practice helps Victoria promote its clean green image within Australia and overseas. The preservation of this image has enormous trade benefits. Today, community concern about chemicals in the environment and in food puts ever-increasing pressure on farmers to prove they have used chemicals safely and responsibly. The responsible use of farm chemicals, as a pest and disease management tool, is an important feature of agricultural production systems.

This new control system has been designed to recognise the need for farm chemical users to be able to prove they are doing the right thing and employing good chemicals management practices. It has also been designed with the flexibility to recognise that persons may work under the direction of others, ie: a person who holds an ACUP can directly supervise others who do not have an ACUP. When this occurs it is the responsibility of the ACUP holder to ensure that records of use are made and kept.

New control system flexible This new control system also has the flexibility to exempt persons, who are part of a recognised quality assurance (QA) program, from certain requirements, such as the need to hold an Agricultural Chemicals User Permit (ACUP). Any such QA program would be required to have a chemicals management component that achieved the minimum standard established in the control system.

As a result of discussions about the new control system a number of issues have been raised by those involved in landcare work about their activity, particularly with respect to the spraying of roadside verges. Chemical spraying activity on roadside verges is technically under the control of the Human Services Department. Persons conducting landcare activity are not required to be licensed, so long as the person is not a commercial operator. If, however, the person is conducting spraying activity for fee or reward they will need to meet

21 Issue 2 the requirements of the Human Services Department and obtain a Pest Control Operators licence.

Commercial ground operators are required to be licensed by either the Department of Natural Resources & Environment (if the work is on agricultural land) or by the Human Services Department (if the work is on municipal or public land). In both cases licensing is only required if the operator is in the business of applying chemicals.

Chemical applicators who are licensed pest control operators under the Human Services Department will not be required to obtain another licence, or an ACUP, under the new agricultural chemical control system. They will however be required to comply with the standards for operation determined under the new control system when applying chemicals on agricultural land.

For further information contact the Chemical Information Service on (03) 9651 7317.

======

Landcare on the Web By Tess Goodwin, Landcare Consultant

Welcome to review of World Wide Web sites for landcare. This column will profile Internet sites relevant to Landcare from Australia and around the world, each issue will focus on a different landcare theme.

Our first review looks at landcare in general, with an overview of landcare's Hot Topic - the Rabbit Calicivirus.

Manaaki Whenua http://www.landcare.cri.nz/

An interesting parallel to our own Landcare movement in Australia, this site is managed by the Manaaki Whenua - Landcare Crown Research Institute - NZ. The institute helps to manage land resources for conservation and primary production. Highlights of the site include a list of Landcare Groups in New Zealand, an online bookshop, and a Landcare Research library. Read Landlink, the online newsletter for New Zealand Landcare Groups. Check out the image of the Ruapehu volcanic ash plume.

Landcare Web http://www.agfor.unimelb.edu.au/LCWeb/

No surf of the net would be complete without visiting the Landcare Web site. Based at the University of Melbourne's Department of Agriculture and Resource Management, Landcare Web provides an opportunity to share Landcare information with audiences in Australia and around the world. Browse through the list of Landcare group's home pages. Find out the latest weather forecast, and satellite map. Use the conference centre to trade information on what's new in Landcare. This site also has a Landcare library to finetune your wanderings on the Net.

The CSIRO RCD home page http://www.csiro.au/communication/rabbits/rabbits.htm

22 Issue 2

All you ever wanted to know about RCD, CSIRO’s home page features questions and answers on RCD, the latest Rabbit News, and background on the virus. Choose from the dozens of press releases on the subject of RCD from the fate of Truffles, the pet rabbit, to descriptions of RCD’s spread in places such as the Flinders Ranges.

RCD in WA http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/bunnies/rcd.html

This site sues colour images to highlight the history of RCD in WA as well as details on the local rural community’s co-ordinated response to the ‘once in a life-time’ opportunity RCD offers.

If you’ve found a Web site that would interest Victorian Landcare readers, send me an email on [email protected] and watch out for ‘Landcare on the Web’ in the next issue.

======

Trees, Grass and Insurance - are you fully covered? By Rob Youl

As a Landcare member, you can’t afford not to know about insurance. The easiest way to do this is to work through the VFF by contacting Greg King on (03) 9207 5560.

In the past, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) extended its personal accident and public liability insurance policy to registered Landcare groups and other voluntary bodies with which it worked.

To ensure your group was covered by this policy, you needed to maintain a list of members, inform your DNRE contact officer of group activities well in advance and notify the department immediately of any incidents.

BUT almost no-one ever did this. It required more reporting than most groups could sustain, and would have generated an impossible paper load for DNRE.

Today we use landcare groups to insure themselves. We list two options below, and believe that the other companies could offer this type of insurance.

It’s up to your group to decide what option you want to follow, but don’t delay.

You can still use the DNRE policy for Good Neighbour activities on public land. However you will need to contact your Good Neighbour project manager at least ten working days before you start. That person will need a map, a description of the activity, detailed timings, names of participants and an assurance that you will employ safe practices.

Option 1 - MMI If your group insures with MMI - five percent of the premium goes to Landcare Australia.

For more information contact:

Peter McPherson MMI Insurance 31 Queen Street Melbourne 3000

23 Issue 2

Phone: (03) 9630 0333

• Minimum $75 per annum cost to group • Simple policy with little paper work - covers herbicide use

Option 2 - QBE Your group insures itself with QBE Insurance, which has developed a policy with the VFF, offering landcare groups a Public and Products Liability Policy. This has a liability limit of $5,000,000 for any one occurrence; for product liability this sum would be the aggregate.

Coverage includes group meetings, social gatherings and Landcare activities.

For more information contact:

Greg King VFF Farrer House 24-28 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 Phone (03) 9207 5560 or Rob Lishewski, QBE, (03) 9246 2222.

Cost to the group is $1 per member with a minimum premium of $55 depending on activities, (herbicide and pesticide use are not covered).

======

Clydebank’s Wungum Trials set to teach reclamation techniques By Heidi Florissen

Phot Illustrations Salinity has taken a little more land away from farmers with each passing year.

Clydebank Landcare Group have installed numerous piezometers and monitor salinity constantly.

Educating farmers and the broader community is one of the objectives of a new and exciting demonstration site being set up by the Clydebank Landcare Group in Victoria’s East Gippsland region.

The demonstration trials will educate farmers about the most appropriate ways of rehabilitating degraded land, through the investigation of the effectiveness of different pasture and tree species, and fertiliser applications on land with varying levels of salinity.

“Salinity has taken a little more land away from farmers with each passing year,” explains the Clydebank Landcare Group President, Phil Dijs. “But at last, the opportunity has come for the farmers to reclaim some of that lost land.”

“And a working demonstration is one of the best ways to teach people techniques on how to go about reclaiming land,” he said.

The project will cover approximately 1 hectare, and will be known as the Wungum Demonstration Trials, named after the paddock on the corner of Hughes Road and

24 Issue 2

Bengworden Road where it is situated. This land was kindly donated by Clydebank Landcare Group members, Libby and Andrew Thomson for the life of the project.

Works on the site have already begun, with marking out of the area and soil sampling. Fencing will take place over the coming months, in readiness for ground preparations early next year.

“The site contains a representation of the different land types in the area, from very productive to severely degraded land,” Andrew Thomson said.

Libby Thomson said, “We will be looking forward to seeing results from the Wungum Demonstration Trials Site in the new year.”

The site will be monitored and maintained for a period of five year, to gather valuable information about the long-term viability of certain species, and their adaptation to changing salinity levels as the site is influenced by two nearby groundwater pumps.

The Clydebank Landcare Group is currently seeking corporate sponsorship to conduct the Wungum Demonstration Trials.

Further information about the Wungum Demonstration Trials or the Clydebank Landcare Group can be obtained by contacting Heidi Florissen, Landcare Facilitator on (051) 451 556.

Educating farmers and the broader community is one of the objectives of the Wungum Demonstration Trials.

Clydebank Landcare The Clydebank Landcare Group was set up in 1992 to raise community awareness about land degradation caused by increasing salinity levels, and to discover ways of addressing this major problem.

Since 1992, the Clydebank Landcare Group’s activities in the community have included: the installation of piezometers; Whole Farm Planning workshops; experimental pasture and tree species plots; grazing trials; and the involvement of local schools in Landcare.

These activities, and the Clydebank Landcare Groups involvement in the implementation of the Lake Wellington Salinity Management Plan, have assisted in the identification of areas in which five groundwater pumps have been installed to allow farmers to reclaim previously unproductive areas of their properties.

25 Issue 3

Victorian Landcare Magazine

Issue 3, Autumn 1997

______

From the Editors

Most summers we hear the catchcry 'It's going to be a bad year for fires'. On average Victoria is hit by serious fires every ten years.

The summer of 1997 will be remembered for the tragic loss of life and the vast spate of fires affecting most parts of the State.

Many landcare people are involved in firefighting as CFA volunteers and we applaud their courage and dedication.

A CFA crew member who fought the devastating fires in the Dandenongs said, "you meet these people from all over the State, some from towns so tiny the firestation is probably the only building there, and you don't even have to say thank you, all they want is to know that you'd come and do it for them."

In this issue of Victorian Landcare we have something for everyone. Graeme MacLennon from Woodside in south-east Gippsland tells of his battle with disastrous wool prices. We also feature some thought provoking extracts from speeches made at Landcare's 10th Anniversary celebration last year.

March is Landcare Month, the theme this year is revegetation and vegetation management. We will be featuring some regeneration success stories in our next issue.

Please keep sending us your comments, stories, news and letters.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The editors,

Mal Brown, Paul Crock and Greg King.

======

Help is on the way for small landholders

Photo Illustration These rural Urban Community Coordinators will work with over 8,000 small landholders throughout the Corangamite region. From left to right: Bronte Payne, Linda Keen, Michael Sayers, Jenny Sedgewick, Linda White and Greg Farmer.

How many times have you heard people complaining about the "hobby farmer" down the road who doesn't control his weeds or rabbits? The blame for many catchment problems is often placed on owners of small farms because they spend time working away from the local farming community.

Issue 3

The innovative new Rural Urban Community Coordinator program is designed to increase the level of awareness and participation of small landholders in improved catchment management. The program will help to put small landholders in touch with information and equipment to assist them to better managing their land. The program will highlight management options which the whole community can participate in, including stream revegetation, salinity and soil erosion control, pest plant and animal control, the protection and enhancement of native vegetation and farm forestry.

Six part time Rural Urban Community Coordinators will be working across south western Victoria to motivate small landholders in groups, and as individuals, to undertake Landcare works. The coordinators will be based in the Upper Woady Yaloak Catchment, Bannockburn-Teesdale area, Moriac - Winchelsea area, Upper Maribyrnong Catchment, Heytesbury area and the Dean's-Barongarook Creek Catchments near Colac.

The Rural Urban Community Coordinators will work with over 8,000 small landholders throughout the region. Many of these part time land managers have a limited knowledge, understanding and expertise in relation to farm management. The Rural Urban Community Coordinators will facilitate information sessions, field days and group discussions to increase understanding and co-operation between all land managers in a catchment.

It is hoped this locally based program will succeed where traditional agricultural extension programs may have failed. Conventional programs often have difficulty reaching land managers who work away from the farm, but the Rural Urban Community Coordinator program aims to be flexible and conduct activities which integrate into everyday community activities.

The program is jointly funded by the National Landcare Program and the Corangamite Salinity Program. Financial and in-kind support is also received from the Victorian Farmers Federation, local shires and water authorities.

For further information contact: Fleur Maidment, DNRE (03) 5333 6782 or Jon Pitt, VFF (03) 9207 5555.

======

New Weed Fighting Funds

Photo Illustrations Alligator Weed has been targeted under the Priority Weed Education Scheme. It is a huge threat to rivers, irrigation systems and wetland habitats. The weed grows rapidly and can choke waterways with disastrous consequences for agriculture and the environment.

The Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Marie Tehan has urged landholders to take urgent action on controlling weds across the State. Minister Tehan has announced a major $12 million weeds initiative over four years to tackle important weed issues.

The Victorian Weeds Initiative aims to achieve long term reductions in weed infestations and prevent re-infestations through appropriate vegetation management and changes in land management practices.

The key elements of the Initiative commencing in 1997 are;

• Weeds Awareness Campaign.

Issue 3

• Priority Weed Eradication Scheme. Operating on public and private lands, this scheme would focus on eradicating State Prohibited Weeds. The immediate high priority targets are Alligator Weed and Water Hyacinth.

• Local Government Weed Management Innovations Scheme. Aimed at developing new approaches on priority weeds with local government, on a cost-sharing basis.

• Weed Fighting Fund. Funding for Landcare and other community groups to tackle emergent, high-priority weeds.

• Community Weed Control. A cost-sharing scheme for groups to work on Regionally Prohibited and Regionally Controlled weeds that have been identified in the priority areas in the Regional Catchment Strategies. Projects are to be based on a community driven weed control plan.

Regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards will assess projects submitted for funding under the Initiative and identify those which will be most effective in dealing with priority weeds.

If you would like to put forward a project contact your regional office of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment for further details.

======

Victoria Hosts World Ploughing Contest

Photo Illustration A World Ploughing Contest is the ultimate test of ploughing skills.

Representatives from 32 countries around the world will be bringing their plough, tractor and skills to Deakin University in Geelong on the 11th and 12th of April 1997 for the 44th World Mouldboard Ploughing Contest.

This huge event will include machinery displays, vintage ploughing demonstrations, horse and bullock ploughing, and art and craft displays. For further information contact Michael Lethbridge on (03) 9882 5024.

======

Community Fireguard - Living with the bushfire risk

Photo Illustration The aim of Community Fireguard is to reduce loss of life and property in bushfires.

Most people who live in natural environments are aware of the risk posed by bushfire. Traditional approaches to bushfire protection have largely focused on fuel reduction and this has often been seen as contrary to good conservation. With greater research and information, fire management agencies are realising that it is possible to manage the Issue 3 bushfire risk without sacrificing environmental values. One of the results of this change in emphasis has been the development of a program to assist the community in dealing with their vulnerability to bushfire.

Community Fireguard is a community based initiative of the CFA. The aim is to reduce loss of life and property in bushfires. It is about small groups of people, generally neighbours, who live in high fire risk areas, taking an active role in their own fire safety. By working together, with the assistance of a CFA facilitator, these groups are able to access the latest information and develop personal, family, and community survival strategies which suit their particular situation.

Survival strategies developed by Community Fireguarders vary from simply not being in the fire danger area at the time of a fire to being prepared and staying with their property. Whatever the decision, well prepared plans are essential. These include the development of early warning systems, improving the safety of buildings by structural modification, strategic fuel reduction, landscape design and enhanced fire suppression capabilities. By developing a strategy specific to their own capabilities and values, people involved in Community Fireguard are able to improve the survival chances of themselves, their families and their community while preserving their way of life and the environment.

If you would like further information about Community Fireguard contact your local facilitator on:

Geelong, Otways, Bellarine, Peninsula Peter Moulton (03) 5229 7383 or mobile (018) 521 226

Mornington Peninsula, Pakenham, Bass Coast Graeme Hind (03) 9793 4088 or (03) 5985 3054

Dandenong Ranges, Yarra Valley Steve Pascoe (03) 9735 0511

Macedon, Whittlesea Helen Jerome (03) 5789 1313

======

Landcare Partnership Strengthened

Phot Illustration The Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Marie Tehan presents a cheque to Patricia Zerbe of the Upper Goulbourn Catchment Group Inc at Balham Hill.

The Group will employ a person to co-ordinate the planning and implementation of works including permanent pasture establishment, erosion control, tree planting and weed and pest control.

The Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Marie Tehan has announced the first allocation of funding for the 'Landcare Partnership Initiative 2000' program.

Mrs Tehan said $456,613 would be allocated to 35 projects around the State.

Issue 3

The Landcare Partnership Initiative 2000 was launched by Mrs Tehan in October 1996. Under the initiative, more than $3 million will be spent on Landcare projects during the next three years to strengthen the partnership between government, industry and the community.

"Today's funding announcement marks the beginning of a major boost for Landcare which will help build on the efforts of the past ten years of the Landcare movement.

"The $456,000 includes funding for 17 community based regional Landcare group co- ordinators and 18 on-ground projects."

Mrs Tehan said the co-ordinators would assist with the development of Landcare at a catchment level.

"The people appointed to these positions will be working to ensure priorities nominated in the Regional Catchment Strategies are addressed. The co-ordinators will also assist with group formation, skill development and networking with other groups."

The 18 on-ground projects would encourage and support communities in their efforts to care for, protect and restore their natural resources, Mrs Tehan said.

Fundings for the projects ranged from $3,714 for the Smokey River Land Management Group's river recovery plan and habitat extension project, to $34,480 for the Oven's Landcare Network's on-ground salinity strategy.

"These funds will be further boosted by an additional $1.3 million grant in 1997/98 and 1998/99."

Mrs Tehan said Victoria's prosperity was directly linked to the effective management of its natural resources.

"The State Government is committed to supporting the range of important Landcare programs and I am pleased this $457,000 funding announcement will benefit a large number of Landcare's 22,000 members and the Victorian Community.

For further information about the Landcare Partnership Initiative contact your DNRE regional office.

======

Wimmera Grassy Woodland surveys reveal many special plants

Photo Illustrations A superb remnant of Buloke Woodland that was once widespread over much of the Wimmera. The white flowers are Paper Sunray.

Swainsona murrayana. A small, nationally rare and endangered plant discovered on a site surveyed near Warracknabeal.

Surveys of native grasses across the Wimmera have revealed a rich diversity of species including many rare and endangered plants.

Neil Marriott from the Trust for Nature Victoria has surveyed the extent of remnant grasslands and grassy woodlands on private property in the Wimmera.

Issue 3

During spring and summer last year Neil travelled as far as Telangatuk, Warracknabeal and Dadswells Bridge to survey grasslands.

Neil said one Warracknabeal property contained 54 native plant species, including seven rare species.

He said landholders were keen to protect remnant vegetation. Some landholders had excluded stock from sections of their property whilst others allowed limited grazing.

Neil is currently writing a report on the sites he surveyed in November and December 1996.

The value of retaining grasslands or sowing native grasses for pasture will continue to be studied. Three botanists are working on the project across the Wimmera, the project is co- ordinated by the Trust for Nature Victoria through a grant from the Australian Nature Conservation Agency.

The survey adds to the presently incomplete picture of grassy woodlands in the Wimmera. It will provide a basis for further actions to protect this vanishing ecosystem.

======

Foundation Seminar a Great Success

In a show of support for the Landcare Foundation, Alcoa has hosted the first of a series of seminars designed to highlight the business benefits of being involved in the Landcare movement as a partner rather than just a sponsor

John Collett, Alcoa's Western Australian Landcare Manager, explained the detail of the Alcoa Landcare Project and the intricacies of the decision to support "an environmental movement with their sleeves rolled up."

He detailed the environmental ethic of the company, emphasising that "the Landcare Project was external to the operations and was a way of the company putting its expertise and resources into a most worthwhile community movement."

Sir James Hardie, the Chairman of the Landcare Foundation spoke briefly about the structure of the foundation and encouraged participants present to consider Landcare as an opportunity to enter into meaningful partnerships with the community.

In concluding the evenings activities, John Hannagan, Alcoa's Corporate Affairs Manager highlighted the role Landcare now played in regional communities. "It has reached the point where Landcare has drawn communities together, in some respects like the church used to do," he said.

John Hannagn explained the first seminar aimed to highlight why Alcoa was involved in Landcare. He invited participants on a tour of some of the Victorian projects to show them how the project was structured and explain the relationships involved.

The tour will take place as a Landcare Month activity during March.

For more information regarding Alcoa's Landcare Project, contact Paul Crock on (03) 9207 5562.

======Issue 3

Alcoa and Landcare Australia Team up for the Foundation

At an Institute of Company Directors luncheon last year, the Federal Minister for the Environment, Senator Robert Hill, launched a new Alcoa-Landcare Australia initiative to involve more corporations in the Landcare Foundation.

Senator Hill praised Alcoa’s contribution to the Landcare movement over the early stages of the Decade of Landcare.

“Up until 1994, the Alcoa Landcare Project had provided more than 2 million seedlings for community and farmer planting projects, directly sown over 4 million trees from seed, treated nearly 5,000 hecatres of salt and erosion affected land, established more than 700 specific Alcoa Landcare Project sites in WA & Victoria and assisted more than 60 Graduate Diplomas in Land Rehabilitation through Ballarat University. They also established Landcare Education Centres in WA and Victoria and established seed banks at Portland, and Melbourne.”

In drawing attention to Alcoa’s achievements, Senator Hill urged other companies to follow suit. “The Alcoa Landcare project provides corporate knowledge, planning and expertise to assist in the reveral of Australia’s greatest environmental problem – land degradation,” he said.

A series of seminars and workshops will be held beginning in November 1997, hosted by Landcare Australia and Alcoa to introduce members of corporate Australia to a successful model for corporate involvement in Landcare.

The workshops will introduce key stakeholders within the Landcare movement and will include tours of successful Landcare projects. Alcoa will explain their corporate Landcare philosophy and the company’s reasons for establishing a Landcare project that is integral to the core business of Australia’s largest alumina producer.”

The Senator reiterated the government’s support for Landcare and urged the business community to become involved. “Land degradation affects all Australians. Landcare provides a vehicle for all Australians to come together and address these problems. When the Government supports Landcare it supports a community movement. When you, the business community, support Landcare you do likewise. In launching this initiative for corporate involvement in Landcare I comment it to you as a means of bringing Australians together, to build the Australia we want.”

Highlighting Landcare’s need for corporate support, Senator Hill said that “…Landcare is good for business – and business is good for Landcare, as we have seen by the example of Alcoa and others.

“I hope that we continue to see increasing investment in the environment by Australian industry I can assure you that it’s a win/win investment. God for business and Good for the environment.”

======

Farmers Move Away From Conventional Tillage

Issue 3

Environmental concerns amongst farmers have led to a major increase in the use of soil conservation cropping throughout Australia, according to Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) report.

A survey for the report showed a major swing to soil conservation or minimum tillage cropping with 55% of farmers now using the cropping system to minimise soil erosion.

The GRDC report revealed the percentage of farmers using soil conservation cropping was more than twice the number who used conventional methods which involve repeated workings of paddocks.

The report showed 32% of farmers who direct drilled their crops preferred to use narrow points while wide points were used by 24%.

Only 7% of farmers surveyed for the report indicated they used no-till disc machines.

GRDC western region panel member and farmer, Dale Blake, said the increased use of minimum tillage was directly related to farmers' concerns for the long term sustainability of their soils.

Farmers are now more aware that Australia's fragile soils will remain productive for much longer if they use the least amount of soil disturbance when establishing their crops, Mr Baker said.

The days of ripping up a paddock six and seven times before cropping are well and truly over - more farmers use narrow points to sow crops directly into the previous year's stubble and this indicates their growing concern for soil structural decline and erosion.

"Farmers who use minimum tillage constantly point to benefits like improved soil structure, less erosion, improved crop moisture use, higher yields, lower fuel costs and reduced machinery wear and tear.

"Minimum tillage can also substantially lift grain yields because crops can be sown earlier when soil moisture levels are ideal."

"Timing is important as the maximum yield potential for some grain crops reduces by about 7% in some areas for every week seeding is delayed past the optimum sowing date."

"While these benefits can ultimately lead to increased profits, farmers need to be aware that the payback might not be as immediate as they expect," he said.

The report features case studies on 13 leading farmers from across the nation and shows how they have successfully incorporated minimum tillage into their farming systems.

Mr Baker said the farmer case studies published in the report showed producers were more likely to make a success of minimum tillage cropping if they remained committed to the system and used low cost options in the early stages.

"All of the 13 leading farmers featured in the report said they had experienced problems in the first few years of their switch to minimum tillage cropping and many admitted the system needed continual development to maintain crop yields and gross margins.

"The research has highlights the need for flexibility when using minimum tillage cropping - factors such as unseasonal conditions, disease or pests often require farmers to return to ploughing or burning to get their crops established. Issue 3

"But total crop management can be used to manipulate weed, disease and pest cycles, through crop rotations and paddock planning," he said.

For more details on the minimum tillage report contact the Kondinin Group's FARMLINE information service on 1800 677 761.

======

CRA Project Platypus - breaking new ground!

Photo Illustrations Deputy Premier and Minister for Agriculture, Pat McNamara launching CRA Project Platypus.

Michael McMurtrie, Chairman of Project Platypus receives a cheque from Rowley Brunker, General Manager of CRA Exploration.

CRA Project Platypus is an extraordinary Landcare initiative that involves the whole community in the Upper Wimmera Catchment, the corporate sector, three tiers of government, local private business, community groups, schools and individuals.

About 150 people witnessed the Deputy Premier of Victoria Mr Pat McNamara officially launch CRA Project Platypus at Seppelt's Great Western Winery in 1996.

While launching the CRA Project Platypus, Mr McNamara said that the Wimmera community identified in the early 80's the problems associated with the Wimmera River.

"Problems include 80,000 tonnes of salt per year moving down the river and some of the most severe soil erosion in the State occurring in the upper parts of the catchment," he said.

"The Wimmera community realised very early that if these problems were not addressed the 50 towns across the Wimmera-Mallee that rely on it would be without a healthy water supply."

"The Wimmera River Integrated Catchment Management Strategy was developed as a result."

CRA Project Platypus has used this strategy as a basis for setting up their Action Plan and identifying their objectives.

Mr McNamara was extremely impressed by the community support for CRA Project Platypus, not only at the launch but as has been obvious throughout the project's development.

The project The community is addressing a common concern - land and water degradation. Declining water quality threatens the existence of communities of the Wimmera-Mallee and is having a disastrous impact on the environment.

The platypus was chosen as a symbol for the project because it is an easily identified Australian icon and relies on good water quality for its survival.

Issue 3

Farmers will be encouraged to undertake land management practice that not only benefit themselves economically, but also provide wider benefits to the rest of the catchment.

Julian King, (then VFF) and Mary Bignell (DNRE Stawell), offered 11 Landcare groups in the Upper Wimmera River catchment an opportunity to discuss the possibilities of corporate sponsorship.

Barry Clugston president of the Upper Wimmera Farm Tree Group hosted the first meeting from where a committee was formed of members from each Landcare Group and chaired by Mr Michael McMurtrie, farmer and member of Jallukar Landcare group.

"How will it work?" Monthly meetings have since dealt with an enormous number of issues and ideas. In developing project ideas the committee had to deal with a diverse ranged of localised issues.

The committee realised that the actions identified in the final plan needed to focus on issues beyond group and property boundaries, with the greater catchment benefit being paramount.

Wimmera Landcare Facilitator Mr David Munday said, "The time, effort and commitment of those involved in this project from the Landcare Group members, DNRE support staff, Landcare Foundation Victoria, the Victorian Farmers Federation and CRA has been remarkable.

"At times the group has required some guidance from myself as Regional Landcare Facilitator and Landcare Support staff, but in the success of the project is due to their belief in the fact that they COULD do it."

Other key players in supporting the project at various stages included; $2,000 from the Riechstein Trust, $5,000 from DNRE and early supporter Wimmera Mallee Water who provided $40,000 over two years for critical ongoing works.

"Wimmera Mallee Water's support was crucial as a 'kick along' to the groups momentum. The project also received research support from the Platypus Conservatory," Mr Munday said.

Why has the group been so successful? To overcome concerns about priority setting, the group and David Munday ran a workshop to determine the groups goals.

The Committee selected sub-committee's to deal with the four priorities identified. • Perennial Pasture Establishment and Management • Erosion Control • Tree Establishment and Remnant Vegetation Protection • Vermin and Weed Control (to be integrated into the other three)

From these sub-committees the guidelines for an Action Plan were developed.

The Action Plan formed the basis for the CRA Project Platypus, how the subsidies are to be implemented, the rate of subsidies and the guidelines for how works will be undertaken. The Action Plan also outlines the time frame for meeting targets.

The group produced a colour brochure, with an abbreviated pamphlet for general public information. Once the group had written their Action Plan, then the 'wooing' of CRA as a partner began in earnest. The Victorian Landcare Foundation promoted the project to CRA. Issue 3

The Project Platypus Committee and CRA spent many months working through the expectations of both parties. Helen Fenney, Philanthropic Consultant for CRA outlined exactly what CRA wanted. Both partners agreed on a range of issues discussed, including the need to adopt a sound scientific approach to land management.

The partnership will bring technical skills and expertise, project management support and financial assistance to the project.

Anyone can do it! This project is an excellent example of what any community of Landcare groups can achieve with a vision, commitment, belief in the motto 'We can do it!'.

Credit to the upper Wimmera Landcare group's under 'CRA Project Platypus' for securing $200,000 cash and over $100,000 of 'in kind' support for onground works to improve water quality in the Wimmera River.

======

Landcare's 10th anniversary

Photo Illustrations Terry Simpson point out the benefits of 10 years of Landcare.

Greg Price, Martin Fuller and Tom Lougheridge made the trek to Winjallok to represent Landcarers from Gippsland.

Wally Shaw, Heather Mitchell and Alex Arbuthnot, past and present Presidents of the Victorian Farmers Federation.

Pat McNamara, Heather Mitchell, Terry Simpson, Joan Kirner, Alex Arbuthnot and Wally Shaw after the unveiling of the plaque.

The day involved walking over once barren rocky hills and viewing first hand the results of 10 years of landcare.

Heather Mitchell and Joan Kirner - The brokers that brought landcare together.

Over 100 people were on the property of Terry and Greg Simpson at Winjallock (some 20km south-west of St. Arnaud) on November 22 last year to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Landcare in Victoria.

The Winjallock Landcare Group was formed on the Simpson property on November 25 1986, and has the distinction of being the first Landcare group in Australia. There are now some 3,240 Landcare groups across the nation.

Former Premier, Joan Kirner and Former Victorian Farmers Federation President, Heather Mitchell, who were both involved in the start of the program 10 years ago, were present to jointly unveil a plaque commemorating the occasion.

The anniversary prompted discussion on the past, present and future of Landcare. Here are some excerpts from the speeches that were made:

Issue 3

"I don't think anyone could have imagined how Landcare has spread and been picked up so enthusiastically. Across Victoria we've got some 650 Landcare groups, with more than 3,000 across Australia. We've even seeing interest in the Landcare model from overseas.

"I think the reason it's been so successful is that it hasn't been promoted just as an environmental program, as something that people might say makes 'greenies' feel warm, but it's been promoted as a very practical program that's been able to return land to productive value, in many cases land that's been severely degraded. More importantly, it's ensured that we've promoted sustainable agriculture and increased profitability for the rural community.

"They say 'it's very hard to be green when your bank balance is in the red'. What I think Landcare has shown is that you can take those correct decisions to ensure long-term sustainability in agriculture, making correct environmental decisions, and immediately turn around the profitability of on-farm operations. And we are seeing that right across Victoria.

"This Government set itself a target, four years ago, to triple the value of rural exports in Victoria from $2 billion to $6 billion. Part of that program is by improving productivity of farms, part of it is also by adding value, by getting more investment into the food processing industry particularly. Those targets are certainly on target to be met with $1.6 billion of investment in food processing, basically 90 percent of it in regional Victoria.

"So, while we've got certainly plenty of challenges ahead of us, can I say that the first decade of Landcare has, by any measure, been an extraordinary success. And it's been an extraordinary success because it's been driven by people who can see getting some real benefit out of it, the rural community." Pat McNamara, Deputy Premier and Minister for Agriculture and Resources.

"I'm very proud of the part the VFF has played in Landcare, the organisation has done its best ...

"There are two special ladies of Landcare here today and we are going to honour them. Joan Kirner, who at one stage Minister for Conservation and Environment, and Heather Mitchell, who was president of the VFF< are two people who played a very big part in the success of the Landcare movement across the state. It was a very courageous move because not all landowners and certainly not all VFF members at the time were with them and it took some management and some effort to bring it about. They deserve our recognition ...:" Wally Shaw, President of the VFF.

"As we drove in here today, all these memories kept coming back to me of the first time I came here. Some of you will recall that I got out of the car, on a windy day with high heels on. I'd only been Minister for Conservation for five minutes and this charming gentlemen here takes me for a walk up that horrid gully which has now got a wonderful dam and trees on it, up that hill, Stricta Hill, in high heel shoes. So I've got a lot to thank Terry for. The main thing is I went and bought a pair of boots. When I got up this morning and put boots on my husband said "It must be Landcare again'. And I said 'Yeah, that's right, it is".

"Now it's not that Heather and I actually invented Landcare - people have been caring for land for years - what we did was make all the connections, and that's what Landcare's all about. Making the connections between what's needed on the ground with the farming community and integrating land, water, pests, tree management and crop management. Making the connections between government, the community, resources and also making the connections between the catchments.

Issue 3

"The very best connection that I ever made in this whole task was with Heather Mitchell. Without Heather, without the Farmers' Federation, which has continued on this proud tradition, there would not have been Landcare ...

" ... After a thing's existed for 10 years you can congratulate yourself and unveil a plaque, and I'm very thankful that you've asked us to do that today ... but you can also look at what needs to be done, next. I've got a sneaking feeling that Landcare, as a national program, actually needs a bit of a shot in the arm ... that perhaps the concept's absolutely right but maybe the way the resources are directed, the amount of resources that are directed and the knowledge that isn't just a tree-planting program but is also an integrated management program, and the sense that we really are looking at catchments, including big challenges like the Murray-Darling need work ... maybe we need to look at it in a slightly bigger and broader way while always keeping the connections on the ground ...

"When people ask me if I enjoyed being in politics I'd have to say that ... I'm just so proud of Landcare. And it shows that, across political lines, you can get things done - if you believe in community, and if you believe in the future." Joan Kirner, former Premier and Minister for Conservation and Environment.

Thanks to John Quinlan from DNRE Bendigo for transcribing the speeches. Paul Crock took the photographs.

======

Landcare and wool growing at Woodside

Photo Illustrations Frankie and Scott MacLennan display some of their wool products.

The MacLennan's Blue-gum plantation. The trees are doing well but Graeme warns a plantation like this is really a monoculture and shouldn't be seen as increasing biodiversity.

In 1990 this area was growing a 'wonderful' crop of capeweed. Now there are 17,000 Blue- gums over 17 hectares of a 'suspected' recharge site.

By Graeme MacLennan, Woodside Landcare Group

Our 300 Hectare farm runs along the Ninety-mile beach at Woodside in South-east Gippsland. Because the farm is small it was considered as 'non-viable', or at least those were the words of the gentlemen from Rural Finance. Unfortunately they shared the same lack of enthusiasm for our value adding enterprise and landcare activities.

We have a rainfall of around 700 mm on mainly grey acid sandy soils. The farm extends almost out to the sea which means we are the 'last guy' in the catchment and get the result of problems from further up.

Mystery recharge site The farm has a couple of saline patches which have been around for many years. The discharge site has been identified but we are not too sure about the recharge. It could be miles away, or on our own farm about four hundred metres up a sandy rise. The area was growing a wonderful crop of capeweed each year so in 1990 we took a punt and planted 17,000 Blue Gums on 17 Hectares of this 'suspected' recharge area.

Issue 3

The case is still open on where the recharges is but the blue-gum plantation or 'photo-copy paper crop' is doing nicely. We have also fenced off the saline area and established demeter fescue, balansa clover and strawberry clover.

Our main business has always been wool production. We produce 19 - 20 micron Gippsland Merino wool. Our wool has the market advantage of being less than 0.1% vegetable matter and dust free.

Disastrous Wool Prices By 1993 we were in serious trouble with disastrous wool prices. We lost a lot of equity in the farm and it looked as though we wouldn't be able to maintain it, let alone plan for a sustainable future. My wife, Frankie, had just won the State Individual Landcarer Award and here we were, nearly broke - not a good situation for us or the landcare movement.

Fortunately about this time, I met John Gubbins, a farmer who had set up his own label marketing his Corriedale wool. We decided to do the same with our Gippsland Merino and Casuarina Australia was born. Named after the Casuarina stricta trees that have survived on our farm, and are typical of the native vegetation along the Ninety-mile Beach.

Marketing under our own label allowed us to take control of our wool price. We set our own price and are able to provide products that the customer is happy to buy. This makes a pleasant change from relying on fluctuating markets.

I believe the disastrous wool prices over the last five years are the greatest negative in the Decade of Landcare. So many in our industry would plant trees, improve drainage, fence out creeks and work on salinity areas if only there was a reasonable income from their wool.

40 acre scrub By taking control of our wool price and adding value to our product, we have been able to continue with our personal landcare program. We have set aside 40 acres, the last scrap of coastal vegetation in our area. Known to the locals as scrub, it has a rich abundance of Melaleuca, Leptospermum, Acacia, Eucalyptus, Casuarina and Bursaria plus an abundance of understorey species. This part of our farm has a legal covenant was entered into by us voluntarily with the Trust for Nature - formally the Victorian Conservation Trust.

The question we are now being asked is how do we equate landcare with profitability? This is not difficult for us because we have a blind faith that landcare issues override all else. We believe that we have a responsibility to the land and to future generations to repair the damage of excessive land clearing, the introduction of pest plants and animals, the grazing of unfenced creeks and rivers, the excessive use of chemicals and other agricultural practices.

Landcare activities are repair jobs If you have to repair the transmission in the John Deere, it will cost you money. The time has come to repair the land and it will also cost money. Why should we expect to make money out of a repair job? All of our landcare activities are really repair jobs. They just cost heaps down the track if you don't fix them.

There is certainly some evidence that what we are doing is working. By diversifying into pulp paper production, we have been able to lease a paddock in the lee of the blue-gum plantation to a dairy farmer for a better price than he was prepared to pay elsewhere.

The area down slope of our Blue-gum plantation is now carrying sheep on a carefully managed basis where nothing much grew before. Our feed quality has improved, the foxes and rabbits are more manageable. Issue 3

But how do you put a price on aesthetics? What price a better looking farm? What price shade on a hot day? How do you value improved work areas? Try spending a day land marking where there is no shelter, then you'll have no doubt that landcare is good business.

Graeme MacLennan wrote and presented this paper at the National Landcare Conference in Ballarat last October. Photographs by Paul Crock.

======

Analogue Forestry: What does it mean? By Carmen Zerafa, DNRE

Photo Illustrations Sri Lankan village forest practice is one of several countries that inspired the AF model. This photograph shows a general view with rice paddies between forests in the foreground and background.

Herbs, marigold, basil and castor established as early stages of the forest.

The following message came from the Murray-Mallee 2000 Analogue Forestry Workshop, at Swan Hill. Key Speakers; Peter Mathews, John Jack and Anthony Dufty. Thanks to John Jack for the photographs.

Analogue Forestry (AF) looks at the ecological interactions between the components of the forest - herb layer, understorey, bushes, animals, bacteria and birds, successional changes and subsequent nutrient cycling.

The Analogue Forest is designed to mimic the ecology of the indigenous ecosystem and promote the sustainability of the system.

An analogue species provides the same ecological interaction as the indigenous species but also provides a marketable product. An example of an analogue species for a particular site where Eucalyptus Melliodora (Yellow Box) grows could be Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Red Gum), where the Red Gum would provide a higher economic return.

The 'Potter Farm' Project in Hamilton, Victoria is an example of analogue forestry. 10% of the land has been planted to shelterbelts/windbreaks, there has been an increase in 'ecological diversity' - where all the components of the 'forest' are interdependent on one another.

Intentionally successful analogue forests are underway in Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, California and Indonesia.

Analogue forests increase biodiversity Globally there has been an increase in the loss of biodiversity - as a result of agriculture, forestry and the population explosion. With this there has been a displacement of rural people. Indigenous people are losing their skills and knowledge, there are increases in CO2 levels, global warming, erratic weather patterns and more food additives/contaminates.

AF has been recognised by the United Nations as a means to combat the loss of biodiversity. The balanced ecological and economic processes of AF will help to deal with these global issues (eg. provide CO2 storage and flexible production in the face of erratic weather patterns). Issue 3

Designing Analogue Forests When designing an AF the indigenous/native species are included (to ensure associated benefits are not lost), with the Analogue species providing marketable products.

This does not mean that in the case where the indigenous/native species already provides an economic product (along with the ecological interaction) that an analogue has to be found. Here the analogue is the native species itself. eg Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) provides habitat, mycorrhizal interactions and wood products, therefore it is an analogue species.

Analogue forestry is different to agroforestry in that it looks at the best species suited to the area in terms of energy flow - and is 'defined by ecological criteria' looking at the ecological interactions, whereas agroforestry 'is based on economic benefits'.

In summary, analogue forestry looks at the 'interaction between individual plants and animals in the one system'. The aim is to design a forest on the basis of obtaining an interaction between the plants. Plants are selected and scored on their economic value, social value and environmental values.

A field day on analogue forestry will be held in Swan Hill in April. For further information contact Judy Chaplin on 03 - 5032406.

Design Pointers • Look at the indigenous ecosystem - interactions between species, spacings..."mimic the ecology of the indigenous ecosystem". • Promote the ecological function of the system - nutrient cycling, energy flow. • Conserve endangered species (the species may not provide a commodity but will provide conservation biodiversity). • A whole farm plan needs to be completed. • Define goals - economic, domestic, social, conservation, aesthetics. • Decide on the best combinations of plants to achieve the goals. • Where will the plants be sourced from? • What plants and layout best suits these plants and my goals?

======

Bringing Back the Brolgas - "...it's just like having our own bit of Kakadu" Story by David Smith Photos by Graham Pizzey

One late afternoon in June 1991 found Lachie, Alisoun and Sandy McBean pouring a concrete barrier to restore 22 acres of swamp first drained in the early 1960's. As the afternoon wore on the drizzle became light rain and the wind and words increasingly gusty. Within a week the swamp was full for the first time in several decades. Even as a flat sheet of shallow water with no vegetation or cover, the increase in bird population, both species and numbers, was very noticeable that first season. This was particularly so later in the year as the water began drying back, exposing feeding areas of mud flats.

Lachie and Alisoun McBean began farming in the Gnarput area, just south of Lismore, in 1954. This places their property amongst the stony rises of Victoria's western basalt plain, toward the southern edge of the great sweep of lake and shallow swamp country that extends from near Ballarat across to the South Australian Border. Country that is home to Southern Australia's small remaining numbers of Brolga. Issue 3

Brolgas, and other native species, once common across Victoria, have suffered a dramatic decline due to habitat loss, foxes and hazards such as powerlines. Evidence is that only some 500-600 Brolgas may remain in Victoria. The shallow clear water swamps of the Western District, easily and often drained for additional grazing land, are the very habitat upon which Brolgas depend.

Lachie and Alisoun first drained their swamp in the early 1960's. The plan was to reduce a serious erosion problem below the natural outlet and to provide an additional 22 acres of grazing land. Plans fir the drainage were drawn up by the Soil Conservation Authority, and drains and erosion control measures subsequently constructed. The measures provided effective and the drained swamp then provided good grazing. repairing the land By 1991 attitudes to the environment had changed and so had understandings of natural ecological systems. Lachie and Alisoun, by now in partnership with son Sandy, realised that the natural land systems and habitat needed some repair, and so they decided to restore their swamp. This was done by the construction of a spillway, surveyed to the exact height of the original natural overflow.

The restored swamp has an average depth of about 45 cms, with 60 cms being the deepest section. The swamp was fenced off with the help of a grant from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Indigenous trees have been planted along the eastern and southern edges, leaving clear views and spaces along the other edges to increase Brolga security. By about February, all but the deepest sections of the swamp usually dry back.

During the first dry period, piles of logs, branches, stumps and rocks were placed at various sites in the swamp to provide perching and resting areas for birds. This was thought to be more valuable than constructing an island, which is expensive, prone to erosion and if large enough, likely to attract a colony of seagulls. Hay bales were stacked in several places to provide encouragement and nesting mounds for Brolga. Lachie has noticed that a traditional dam structure built in or near a swamp seems to destroy the characteristics required by birds. He has also noticed that shallow and seasonally changing swamps such as theirs seem more valuable in providing feed and habitat to a wide variety of species deep permanent water.

50 species recorded The second and third years saw further increases in bird life at the restored swamp. Alisoun maintains a weekly census and some 50 species have been recorded. The most distinguished being large flocks of ibis - resident for about six weeks, pelicans, may species of duck, pied stilts, white faced and white necked heron, swans, lapwing, dotterill, grebe, tern, Japanese snipe and spoonbill. Rarer species such as greenshank, brown bittern and Lewin's rail have also been recorded. Frogs are abundant with six species being recorded. Yabbies that 'won't fit on your hand' have been plucked from the clay ooze at the swamp outfall.

The nature of the swamp has changed over the five years with swamp wallaby grass becoming quite dense and high over much of the flooded area. Dense phalaris has also grown between the swamp verges and the fence. These factors have discouraged some species, and provided a harbour for foxes. Fencing alterations and seasonal controlled grazing are being considered to reduce fox cover.

Lachie, Alisoun and Sandy have become astute observers of the wildlife in their district, with binoculars always close at hand. Lachie tells of seeing a group of swans defend a clutch of ducklings from the attack of a determine swamp harrier. Brolgas nested twice in 1995, Issue 3 hatching a chick on the first occasion, but did not proceed to rear it. It is suspected that a fox took the chick. On the second occasion it is thought that a swamp harrier may have taken the egg.

Brolgas returned for two weeks in 1996, but then moved to a second swamp on the property. This second swamp was created in 1993 when Lachie plugged a small gap in the stony rises to create a new 16 acre swamp with a small natural island. No previous swamp had existed on this site. This pair nested and hatched a chick which disappeared shortly after. Again, it is suspected that a fox took the chick. fox control essential Foxes have been controlled in the past by extensive and very careful use of Foxoff. Skilled shooters have also been effective at stalking some of the more cunning and shy fixes. Furthermore, fox numbers and prey selection may be affected as the rabbit RCD virus has effect. Anecdotal evidence is that fox predation is probably the major cause of chick loss. Hatchlings are sometimes sighted, but then often disappear well before fledgling.

The McBeans consider the swamp restoration more as an aesthetic amenity on their property rather than a commercial asset. Although the small size, seasonal grazing - if introduced, and the attraction of insect eating ibis flocks, makes the cost of the swamp nominal. Lachie, Alisoun and Sandy are enthusiastic about their swamps and see it as a complement to their farms and to the whole district. They tell of other farmers restoring areas of swamp to add to the web of habitat re-appearing across the district. Most of the swamp land suitable for habitat is on farmland and so it is upon the good will and understanding of private land owners that the future of Australian native birds as spectacular as the Brolga depend.

Web of habitat Lachie, Alisoun and Sandy McBean hope their experience will encourage others to restore and create areas of swamp for both economic and aesthetic benefits.

They have a vision of many more small swamps re-appearing across the Western District, bringing with them the haunting trumpet, the ballet, and the majesty of Brolga.

For further information about swamp restoration or creation contact Murray McIntyre at DNRE Ballarat on (03) 5333 6825.

Special thanks to Graham Pizzey for the photographs.

======

The Latest on RCD

Photo Illustration Dr Brian Cooke, Principal Research Scientist with CSIRO’s Division of Wildlife and Ecology, is studying the spread of RCD across Australia.

Brian Cooke was in Spain in the late 1980’s and saw the first outbreaks of Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD) moving across the country. Ten years later, as a Principal Research Scientist with CSIRO’s Division of Wildlife and Ecology he is unravelling the mystery of RCD spread across Australia.

Brian is concerned that the recent reports about the apparently low level of impact of RCD in areas of Eastern Australia could distract researchers and landholders from the further work Issue 3 that needs to be done on the disease and on rabbit control. He believes that expectations about the impact of RCD are probably unrealistic.

“In Spain antibody data shows that the disease affects almost every rabbit in the course of a year and still causes significant deaths after eight years in the wild rabbit population. Rabbit numbers are being held at less than 40% of previous levels. “Scientists have always known that RCD would provide a new, lower level of equilibrium. This, combined with traditional methods is where the benefit lies, RCD alone will not deal with the rabbit problem.”

Brian said that when RCD first escaped from trials ion Wardang Island it spread quickly and was extremely effective in arid areas like the Flinders Ranges.”

“This focused attention on the disease and people expected huge reductions in rabbit numbers right across the country. However, in cooler wetter parts of Australia the disease has not spread so well.”

Brian’s research shows that RCD spreads best at temperatures between 15 - 29°C and is also linked to rainfall patterns. He said that a high number of rabbits in an area may also help the disease to spread but more work is needed on this question.”

So we know under what conditions the disease spreads best, but what spreads it?

Brian’s explanation is insects. “This is the only reasonable explanation for the virus” escape from Wardang Island and its rapid spread across the continent. Insect activity is also at its maximum within the temperature range at which the disease spreads best.

“Experiments have detected the virus on a range of insects including bushflies, blowflies and mosquitoes.”

Brian said observing the effects of RCD in the field can be complicated by the very nature of the disease. This can mask its efficiency.

“Young rabbits survive the disease better than adults but they are not seen during spotlight counts in true proportion to their actual numbers. Given this under estimation, young rabbits which survive contact with RCD will later become more conspicuous and the apparent impact of the disease will be underestimated.

“If we want to understand the dynamics of the disease and unravel the changes that are occurring it is essential that we obtain information on the age structure and antibody status of the rabbits within their trial populations. Research on the role of vectors is also essential.”

Brian’s thoughts on the future directions of RCD include its possible use on bait materials as a “biocide”.

He urges State organisations considering the development of bait delivery systems to think broadly about how the most benefit can be obtained. “A cheap method of screening rabbit blood samples would be very useful. This would allow the virus to be reintroduced when the proportion of rabbits with antibodies to the disease was at its lowest.”

Brian’s ultimate hope for RCD is that it will provide a new, lower level of equilibrium in the rabbit population. This, when combined with traditional rabbit control measures should provide some real benefits for farmers and for the environment.

Issue 3

Dr Brian Cooke was speaking at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment RCD Planning and Reporting Workshop held at Attwood recently. Story and picture by Carri Tiffany.

======

Lollies, Coke & Mars Bars made on farms By Lisa Keedle Open Farm Scheme Co-ordinator

Photo Illustrations The Open Farm Scheme brings city kids and shows them the bush.

The Open Farm Scheme was initiated by the Victorian Farmers Federation, Farm Tree and Land Management Committee to raise the profile of farming and Landcare, to our urban cousins. Over the past 5 years the scheme has focused on the promotion and education of farming. Throughout the initial stages of the scheme, it became apparent that the urban community really was not aware what happened on a farm, nor what is associated with farming other than a great lifestyle!

The scheme invites city based people to walk over a farm, with the farmer and discuss typical farming practice such as preparing soil in Autumn to plant potato seed in early summer for harvest in spring. Through the scheme the VFF hopes to highlight that farmers have a lifelong investment in caring for the land.

The Kondinin Group undertook a national survey of primary school children in 1994, which found "86% of city children and 66% of country children thought farmers should never spray their crops with chemicals." If this is the perception of consumers of the future, it is important that farmers must demonstrate that farm use of chemicals is necessary to produce a quality product and if used correctly these pose little threat to the environment.

During the 1996 Open Farm Scheme, Julie Euinton took her two children along to visit a farm on the Mornington Peninsula. The Euinton family were first time visitors to the scheme and appreciated the opportunity to learn about beef production and broiler chickens.

Mrs Euinton said "Adrian, my eldest child, liked the funny farm smells, and was amazed that the chicken leg that ends on his plate at tea time, was part of the chickens running around in the shed we visited." Julie and her family will be on the look out for future farm days to attend, in 1997.

If we are to ensure the due recognition to the importance of agriculture, we must be proactive toward promoting a positive message of food and agriculture.

In the December issue of Farm Journal, David Trebeck stresses "In a country like Australia, the entire population should be constantly reminded of the importance of agriculture and the quality of the food we produce." Therefore if we believe in what we do and what we produce, let's tell the rest of the population.

* "3% of children thought lollies, coke & mars bars, were produced on farms." Kondinin Group national survey 1994.

======

Issue 3

In brief

Photo Illustration Alcoa of Australia's Managing Director Roger Vines (left) joins Melbourne Councillor and Victorian Landcare Foundation chairman, Wellington Lee (centre) at the inauguration of Sir Arvi Parbo (right) as State Patron of the Landcare Foundation.

Farm Advance is winding up Ian Hocking , Chairman of the Board of Management of Farm Advance has recently advised that Farm Advance Inc. has initiated a process of winding up.

A Special General Meeting was held on February 4 1997 to give members the opportunity to discuss and vote on the recommendations of its Board to cease field operations at April 30 1997 and close Farm Advance Inc. at June 30 1997.

Insurance Update The Victorian Farmers Federation and QBE Insurance has announced a new Landcare Group to insure themselves against any action arising from application of any spray during a Landcare activity. The Insurance policy costs $110 and provides $5,000,000 cover for groups. Providing group members have passed the chemical users course, the insurance is readily available. This spray insurance complements the existing $55 QBE Landcare insurance. Cheques are payable to QBE, and must be sent Greg King at the VFF. Forms and further information available from Greg on 03 9207 5560.

Limestone Rebate The Victorian Farmers Federation Economics Committee is recommending that Landcare members lobby their parliamentarians to entice the Government to honour an election commitment to implement a 34 cent tax rebate for eligible landcare expenditure, including the provision of lime to correct soil acidity. The rebate is to be an alternative to a 100% deduction in the year expenditure occurred.

Further information available from Airlie Worrall, VFF Senior Policy Officer on 03 9207 5523.

Foundation patron for Victoria In December, former Alcoa of Australia chairman, Sir Arvi Parbo, was named inaugural Patron of the Landcare Foundation in Victoria. The appointment recognises Sir Arvi's contribution to environmental improvement and the Landcare movement throughout his career. Sir Arvi's role will be to encourage corporate support for the Landcare movement in Victoria.

======

Giving meaning to the name Bushy Creek

Photo Illustration Around one third of Bushy Creek and its tributaries has been fenced off by landholders. Stock has been excluded to restore the riparian zone and reduce erosion.

The Bushy Creek Landcare Group was formed in 1988 and since this time a significant amount of land rehabilitation and revegetation work has been completed. The group is located due south of Glenthompson in South West Victoria and is based on the catchment of Bushy Creek, a direct tributary to the Hopkins River. Issue 3

The Catchment encompasses 18 landholdings and covers almost 12,000 hectares. It is predominantly a sheep grazing area, with some cattle, a limited amount of cropping and recently the establishment of several agroforestry plantations. The land is comprised of two geological types - rolling sedimentary hills and undulating basalt plains. As a result of the intense clearing of the land following European settlement, problems such as severe gullying and dryland salinity have arisen.

Several properties in the area, namely "Fernleigh", "Cherrymount" and "Daryn Rise", became participants in the Potter Farm Plan Project in 1985. This gave the region a boost and provided valuable demonstration in terms of farm planning and tree establishment techniques. For the last five years the community of the Bushy Creek and the Glenthompson Primary School have congregated in the spring for a day to plant sections of denuded roadside along the back at Bushy Creek road. Almost 300 tubestock have been planted and in addition to this over a kilometre has been direct seeded. Glenthompson, Caramut and Hamilton north primary schools have been involved in various tree planting and Saltwatch exercises.

Many landholders have fenced off areas indicating salinity and have planted native trees or salt tolerant pasture species to lower the water table and allow more efficient management.

Around one third of Bushy Creek and its tributaries has been fenced off by landholders and stock has been excluded in an endeavour to restore the riparian zone and thus reduce erosion. the re-established vegetation along the stream banks will minimise the amount of soil, nutrients and chemicals entering the water, thus improving the water quality.

Members of this group have expended an admirable amount of time, effort and money into improving the environmental state of their land. A drive along the Caramut - Glenthompson road offers an impressive display of the land rehabilitation activities. With the ongoing help from Landcare, the community and hopefully financial assistance from another source, it is aimed to establish connecting corridors of native vegetation. Bushy Creek is working with six other Landcare groups as the Glenthompson Catchment Group with the vision of achieving continuos corridors extending from the Grampians to the Hopkins River. This will entice native birds and wildlife to return as well as reducing erosion and salinity, improving water quality and increasing the overall aesthetic appeal of the catchment.

Contact: Jane Rapkins - (03) 5599 8212.

======

Continued Success for Shepparton's irrigation committee

Photo Illustrations Stan Nixon, John Poppa and Jim Kay inspecting the newly completed Rodney 1/6P community surface drain at North West Mooroopna.

Gail and Graham Meinelly examining the whole farm plan for their property at Undera.

The continued success of the Shepparton Irrigation Region Land and Water Salinity Management Plan was recognised following the release of the 1995/96 Irrigation Committee Annual Report.

Issue 3

The Irrigation Committee implements, on behalf of the Goulbourn-Broken and North Central Catchment and Land Protection Boards, the Land and Water Salinity Management Plan in the Shepparton Irrigation Region.

In the future, the committee will also be focusing its attention to other natural resource management strategies, such as nutrient management and biodiversity.

The Annual Report details to Government and the community the major achievements made during the past financial year in the various Plan programs - Farm, Surface Drainage, Sub- Surface Drainage, Environment and Monitoring.

Irrigation Committee Chairman, Athol McDonald, draws particular attention to the continued high level of activity in the preparation of whole farm plans and construction of surface drainage in the Region.

"With a further 166 whole farm plans undertaken last financial year, about 30% of the irrigated part of the Region is now served by a whole farm plan."

"With regard to surface drainage, the construction of 66.9km of community drains, 14.4km of Goulbourn-Murray Water (G-MW) arterial drains and the remodelling of 9.2km of G-MW drains was achieved. In addition, over 65km of G-MW drains and over 90km of community drains were designed. We are well placed to continue construction at or above this level in future years."

Athol said that he continues to be impressed by the dedication, commitment and cooperation of all involved in implementing the Plan.

"The agency staff and members of the community put in a tremendous effort to ensure that the future of this region is secure - economically, environmentally and socially."

======

Awards - for the best in farm management and Landcare

Everyone recognises an innovator, the person with a new solution to an old problem - the farmers and landcarers with a vision for the future.

The Catchment and Land Protection Council, Regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) will be recognising innovation and excellence through the 1997 Farm Management and Landcare Awards.

The awards are strongly supported by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Agriculture and Resources, Pat McNamara and the Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Marie Tehan who see them as an important initiative in recognising the immense contribution groups and individuals make towards achieving sustainable land and water management.

The Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Council has worked to reactivate the long standing Farm Management Awards. These prestigious and historic awards will now be run every two years in conjunction with the Victorian Landcare Awards.

The Farm Management Awards include.

• The Harold Hanslow Award for sustainable land use and management. Issue 3

• The John F Hughes Award for outstanding group work in pest plant and animal control. • The Jack Gilmore Award for outstanding individual or local group activity in water management. • The Dr Sidney Plowman Travel/Study Award to a DNRE staff member demonstrating outstanding contribution to reversing land degradation on farms.

Full details on the award categories and application forms for the Victorian Landcare and Farm Management Awards are available from regional offices of the DNRE or Regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards.

======

Lucerne mops-up waterlogged soil

Photo Illustration] Recent trial have shown Lucerne can delay waterlogging for a full two weeks - a critical effect in farm management terms.

While the concept of Australia as the "world's driest inhabited continent" has become almost a cliche in people's minds, the fact remains that, for farmers, getting rid of unwanted water is often as big a headache as getting enough of it in the first place.

In many cropping areas, waterlogging not only reduces production, but contributes significantly to soil degradation.

A Victorian project, supported by grower funding through the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), has been investigating lucerne's role in drying out waterlogged soil.

At the Institute for Integrated Agricultural Development at Rutherglen, they've been comparing deep rooted lucerne rotations and alley farming with continuos cropping and annual pasture systems.

At the time of sowing last year, the researchers found 30mm less water in the soil profile where a lucerne ley had been sown.

During a wet winter, the lucerne ley delayed waterlogging for a full two weeks - a critical effect in farm management terms. The researchers also included lucerne in assessing alley farming systems - where strips of wheat or canola are grown in "alleys" between belts of local trees and perennial shrubs, or lucerne.

Although the results are not final, according to Phil Haines of the Institute, so far the crops between lucerne alleys seem to be performing best.

Lucerne's deeper roots tend to dry out the soil more than the native trees or shrubs. "Although trees may provide a positive windbreak effect, they also tend to shade the cropped areas - often with negative results," Phil reported.

However, the benefit of the alleys - either with trees or lucerne - might not be as all encompassing as first hoped. The soil tends to dry out better close to the "alleys", but results seem less satisfactory in the middle of the crops.

"we're working on the practical application of alley farming," said Phil. Issue 3

"And one aspect is how wide the cropped areas should be to achieve optimum benefits. It could be that surplus water from the central areas of the crop, in fact move laterally into the drier edges."

According to Phil, the outcome of the research will be most important for the waterlogging- prone duplex soils widespread throughout the cropping areas of Victoria, Southern NSW and Western Australia.

======

Sponsoring Landcare's Future By Debbi Delaney

Photo Illustrations Workshops are the best approach for group training. A group hard at work in the local primary school.

Sponsoring Landcare's future is a pilot program that DNRE, in conjunction with the public relations consultancy Rowland Pinder have been conducting with five landcare groups in Gippsland. The groups involved are the Wellington Salinity Group, Glenmaggie - Seaton Catchment Group, Nambrok and Districts Landcare Group, Clydebank Landcare Group and Bengworden Landcare Group.

The aim of the NLP funded project is to provide training for landcare groups to successfully attract corporate sponsorship and go about promoting themselves using promotional material and activities.

Project Milestones • The groups have developed projects suitable for sponsorship and subsequent briefs including summary, objectives, action plan and costings. • The groups have compiled mission statements encapsulating their aims and identity. • Media releases have been written about each group's projects, giving each group valuable experience in media liaison. • They have developed brochures about themselves which will be handed out to the media, potential new members, local government, prospective sponsors, other groups. • A training manual specific to the 'Sponsoring Landcare's Future' program has been provided to the groups. • Each group is planning to hold activities promoting their projects and themselves. • Three of the groups have developed a sponsorship proposal for their project.

What have we learned? Landcare groups need to be prepared for a very large time commitment if they want to try to attract corporate sponsorship. This applies whether sponsorship is obtained or not. For individual landcare groups this commitment can be very difficult given that the reason they formed is primarily for on-ground works. Therefore it is probably better for groups to work together on a joint project than to work alone.

The 'Sponsoring Landcare's Future' program has had spin off benefits for groups as they have had to think about and reaffirm what they are trying to achieve by identifying and discussing objectives, priority issues of concern, and works programs.

Issue 3

All groups have developed mission statements which has helped them focus on their role and in doing so provide them with an identity they can present to the general community.

The program has reaffirmed that the best approach to group training is to undertake the necessary tasks in a workshop session format.

For example, work through the media release or sponsorship proposal on butchers paper as a group. This provides both the training and gets the job done. It also allows the groups in the future to refer back and identify a process of how to repeat the task again. This has also encouraged more group members to become actively involved rather than let the same old few do all the work.

Arising from these sessions each group involved in the program has been working on a brochure.

The brochure will contain information about the group, management issues to the area and group achievements to date. It has been worthwhile compiling group achievements to date, as this has illustrated how much they really have done. (Which sometimes tends to be forgotten). The brochures should be extremely useful to each group once completed.

If you want to learn more about the program, contact Debbi Delaney at DNRE Traralgon on (051) 722 185. Hopefully groups will soon be approaching prospective sponsors and all the hard work will pay off!

The Golden Rule of Landcare Partnerships • All landcare groups need to be aware that they must be able to provide benefit to the sponsor for funding a project by thoroughly publicising their involvement at group activities, meetings, field days and publications or press releases. • NEVER assume your job is done once funds are secured, a) because that is when your job starts! and b) because it is far easier to maintain a partnership with a company than to start from scratch again.

======

On the Shelf - New Publications

Listening to the Land The Australian Conservation Foundation publication is a directory of community environmental monitoring, which describes more than 200 community monitoring groups around the country. Listening to the Land includes contact details for the groups it lists, and a short summary of their activities. It costs $28, and is available from the ACF, 03 - 9416 1166.

Big Dirt Book After 30 years work by many different agencies studying 14,000 different soils, a new national catalogue of Australian soils has been released. The Australian Soil Classification is the most comprehensive study yet of Australia’s enormously diverse soils. It costs $29.95, from CSIRO Publishing, 1800-645-051.

Sale of the Earth Study Circle Kit This kit, aimed at small groups of five to 15 adults, was produced by the Australian Association of Adult and Community Education (AAACE), New South Wales group salt Action, The Murray-Darling Association and the Murray-Darling Basin Commission.

Issue 3

Typically study circles - which can include landcare groups - meet between three and six times, for about two hours each. Each circle is led by a group moderator, for whom the AAACE offers training. Contact AAACE, 06-251-7933.

Native Grasses Handbook Now in its second edition, with five new grasses included this important book provides readers with advice on grasslands management as well as a greater understanding of the value of native grasses in terms of their benefit to the environment, agriculture, landscaping and upland hydrology.

Native Grasses is $14.95 contact Agmedia on 1800 800 755.

Farming Today for Tomorrow The Kondinin Group has published this comprehensive guide to healthy farming systems. The magazine style book covers finance and capital, human resources, soil structure and fertility, water management, crop rotation and the environment.

The book retails for $35.00 contact the Kondinin Group on 1800 677 761.

======

Landcare on the Web By Tess Goodwin, Landcare Consultant

Welcome once again to our regular review of Landcare topics on the Internet.

Landcare groups are mushrooming across Australia, many of them forming to tackle similar types of land degradation. An increasing trend for Landcare groups is to post a home page on the World Wide Web, describing the group’s membership and activities. hhtp://www.netc.au/gvlc.html This site lists contact details for all the landcare groups in the Goulbourn Murray catchment. hhtp://www.netc.au:80/underaindex.html This is the address for the Undera Landcare Group, they have built a very friendly looking home page, complete with cartoons. The page outlines the history of the Group and lists their aims and objectives which is worth a look if you are producing some for your own group. hhtp://www.netc.net.au/members.html This is the home page of East Shepparton Landcare Group. It gives a great snapshot of the group with information on activities and successes they have had. hhtp://curriculum.qed.qld.gov.au:80/kla/rstm/lcare/html/landcare.htm This Landcare group is part of the Maroochydore State High School on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. The site is packed with stories of the Junior Landcare Group’s activities, with different topics written by different group members. It has lots of ideas for any Junior Landcare Group that needs inspiration or wants to compare notes. hhtp://www.netc.net.au/enviro/landcare/wangurban/homepage.html This is the address for the Wangaratta Urban Landcare Group. This urban perspective of Landcare proves that land degradation doesn’t recognise urban-rural boundaries. Read the group’s newsletter online and view their current projects. Issue 3

hhtp://www.waite.adelaide.edu.au/Landcare/groups.htm This site provides a run down on each of the three hundred Landcare groups in South Australia. hhtp://www.landcare.cri.nz/landgrps/ An informative summary of New Zealand’s Landcare Groups.

Email this column on [email protected] if you have a favourite website you think we should know about.

======

From sods to seedbeds using sustainable cultivation

Photo Illustration A World Ploughing Contest is the ultimate test of ploughing skills.

Excessive crop cultivation on Australian farms increases erosion and soil structure problems. Mouldboard ploughing is a cultivation technique that has been practised in Europe for generations.

Recent research shows that when compared to reduced tillage treatments mouldboard ploughing maintains soil moisture and produces a better crop.

Ex-dairy farmer Neill Boxshall was Australia's representative at the World Mouldboard Ploughing Contest in Spain in 1992. Neill believes the technique offers some real benefits.

"Mouldboard ploughing turns the existing sod face-down, this buries unwanted weed seeds and surface trash so herbicides are rarely needed.

The technique creates an immediate crop seedbed. As the sods are laid over a quick pass with the harrows loosens enough tilth to sow a crop into, this means fewer passes with the tractor are needed t create a seedbed."

======

Mouldboard ploughing seminar for farmers

Photo Illustration A practical 'hands on' go at ploughing.

Farm$mart and Ausplough '97 have organised a one-day seminar to encourage farmers to consider mouldboard ploughing as a cultivation technique. The seminar will be held at Deakin University in Geelong on the 10th April 1997, the day before the 44th World Ploughing Contest gets underway.

The seminar will feature international guest speakers and soil experts offering their views and experiences on mouldboard ploughing. Participants will be encouraged to get some practical experience of the technique using the tractors and ploughs provided. Each participant will receive an information kit with diagrams and follow-up contacts.

Issue 3

The seminar will be run from 10am (registrations from 9.30am) until 3.30pm. The cost is $28.00 including lunch. Participants will also a discount on entry to the first day of the World Ploughing Contest on 11th April 1997.

To book a place send a cheque or money order to Kylie Treble, Seminar CO-ordinator RMB 1386 Simpson Vic 3266.

Bus (03) 55578 252 or A/H (03) 55943487 Cheques are payable to 'Ausplough '97 Incorporated.'

======

The FOXOFF® project

Protecting Australia's Lambs and Wildlife The FOXOFF project commenced in 1992 to bring a coordinated approach to effective reduction of the damage being done by foxes to stock and wildlife. The project is self funded from sales of FOXOFF aits and is credited with saving millions of dollars worth of lambs and with substantial benefits for native wildlife.

Fox predation of ground dwelling birds such as the rare Stone Curlew and Mallee fowl and attacks on icons like penguins and lyrebirds are a National concern.

Foxes also kill a wide variety of small native mammals including the bilby, rock wallabies, numbats and bandicoots.

Foxes raid the eggs from fresh and saltwater turtles and tortoises and contribute to the spread of weeds such as blackberries by carrying viable seeds in their droppings. Foxes would rapidly spread rabies.

By far the biggest economic impact of foxes is on the loss of newborn lambs and goat kids. Farmers participating in the FOXOFF program over the last four years have seen lamb markings increase by 10 to 20%, yielding returns on investment more than 20 times the cost and saving many farms thousands of dollars.

The FOXOFF program also aims to reduce damage to calves and injuries to cows (removal of teats and mauling of vulvas of cows in distress) and reduce losses on free range poultry and turkey farms and by emu and ostrich farmers.

Our native wildlife simply has no defence against an introduced predator with the outstanding bearing, sight, speed and acute sense of smell possessed by the fox. Even the 20 or so foxes on the average farm consume nearly three tonnes of wildlife, lambs, insects, fruit, rodents and rabbits per year!

FOXOFF® provides a convenient, easy and proven method for fox control. FOXOFF® baits are highly specific to canids with minimal risk to native animals. The baits are precisely dosed with a naturally occurring poison found in some Australian plants and are designed to biodegrade in soil to leave no long term environmental hazard.

FOXOFF and advice on how to use it can only be obtained by the Government agency in each State. VIC: Dept Natural Resources & Environment SA: Animal & Plant Control Boards NSW: Rural Lands Protection Boards Issue 3

QLD" Department of Natural Resources

All Landholders are urged to participate fully in the FOXOFF program. Substantial benefits will accrue from a systematic group based efforts to reduce fox numbers over a wide area.

®FOXOFF {a registered trademark} is a research initiative of Applied Biotechnologies Pty Ltd and is marketed by Animal Control Technologies Pty Ltd.

======

Victorian Landcare Magazine

Issue 4, Winter 1997

______

From the Editors

In this issue of the Victorian Landcare magazine we are setting out to discover what you think. We urge you to complete the enclosed reader survey form and sent it back. Not only will you be helping us to make a better magazine, but you could also win a case of lovely Shiraz donated by Banrock Station Wines.

Many Landcare Groups and individuals will be recovering from the enormous amount of time and effort put into the recent Natural Heritage Trust funding applications. The first time around of any new process is always a challenge. We hope the effort is rewarded with more money for more works on the ground.

Applications for the 1997 round of the Victorian Landcare Awards have just closed and there has been a good response across all categories.

The applications will be passed on to experienced judging panels who will have the difficult task of assessing them. See the next issue for a further update on the awards.

Remember to keep sending us your landcare news, stories and photographs. We look forward to hearing from you!

The editors, Mal Brown, Paul Crock & Greg King.

______

Catchment Management Partnership launched

The State Government has launched a blue print for the future management of Victoria’s catchments including a new partnership program with the community.

Minister for Conservation & Land Management Marie Tehan and Minister for Agriculture & Resources Pat McNamara said “managing Victoria’s Catchments – Partnerships in Action’, was based on strong community participation in planning, decision-making and implementation of catchment initiatives.

A key component of the partnership is the implementation of 10 regional catchment strategies covering every region of the State. The strategies have been developed by regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards and the community.

For the first time across Victoria, land and water resource management issues have been systematically reviewed in each catchment and objectives and priorities for action put in place. This will provide a focus for joint efforts by the State and Commonwealth Governments and the community in catchment management and sustainable agriculture. Mrs Tehan said the Victorian Government would allocate $100 million each year to allow the Catchment strategies to be implemented, including $40 million of additional funds during the next three years.

Mr McNamara said that the State Government was committed to working in partnership with farmers, landcare groups, industry, catchment organisations and the community to achieve sustainable development and conservation of land and water resources.

Victoria’s Partnership statement has been developed to meet the Natural Heritage Trust challenges set by the Commonwealth and the needs of rural communities for a sustainable and prosperous future.

Mrs Tehan congratulated the Regional Catchment and Land Protection Boards and their communities involved in the preparation of the 10 regional strategies.

“Community involvement in the development of the regional strategies was important however community involvement in their implementation is even more vital,” Mrs Tehan said.

Mr McNamara said Victoria was now entering a new phase in catchment management.

“The Partnerships in Action program provides an opportunity to showcase how Victoria is taking the lead in its approach to integrated management of our vital natural resources, “he said.

______

Farm Forestry Conference – a focus on Western Victoria By Liz Hamilton, NRE Colac

The Corangamite Farm Forestry Project (CFFP) is organising a Farm Forestry Conference at Ballarat University on September 30 and October 1 1997.

The Conference aims to bring farmers, investors, millers and government officers up to date on the best current information and practices in the rapidly developing farm forestry industry. The conference will largely focus on aspects of farm forestry that are particularly relevant to Western Victoria.

The conference will cover:

• Market Prospects for Farm Forestry – local countrywide and export: Some exciting new local and export developments in sawlogs and pulpwood are occurring in the region which will be of interest to potential and current growers. • Choosing the Right Farm Forestry Option: Pine for sawlogs, blue gum for pulp or speciality timbers? Various speakers will cover the range of options and the factors affecting the economic returns on each. • Wood Properties and Qualities of Plantation Grown Hardwoods: A feature of this discussion will be the results of recent sawing and dry trials by low rainfall eucalypts as undertaken by CSIRO. Species trialled included sugar gum, spotted gum and red ironbark. • Business Planning: Attributes of farm forestry investments; superannuation, taxation and appropriate business structures. • Planning requirements for timber production on private land: The latest planning laws and changes that affect timber growing and harvesting on private land. The development of farm forestry rights will also be covered. • Site preparation: A number of landholders will be discussing aspects of good site preparation critical for successful tree growing. Recipes for successful site preparation on heavy soils solutions for bent grass and phalaris infested sites will be discussed by farmers. • Controlling pests in plantations: How to identify them and how to when to control them. • Integrating farm forestry into the farm: Designing farm forests to maximise returns and other on-farm benefits. • Harvesting and marketing consideration and ideas: A number of real life examples of how and when to harvest and sell timber. Landholders, millers and researchers will relate their own experiences in this aspect of farm forestry. • Managing farm forestry for maximum return: Pruning, thinning and examples of various sivicultural regimes suited to small growers.

The program and registration forms for the Conference will be available in late May through the CFFP. For more information about the Conference, or about any other aspect of farm forestry, please contact either Liz Hamilton or Sue Harris at Colac on (03) 52335533.

______

National Landcare Conference

A detailed program is now available for the National Landcare Conference to be held in Adelaide from September 16-19 1997.

The conference, ‘Landcare Changing Australia’ boasts an impressive array of speakers including the Premier of South Australia John Olsen, Former Minister for Primary Industries John Kerin, Professor Michael Tyler, a passionate frog expert and Dr Wendy Craik from the National Farmers Federation.

The conference will kick off with a selection of one and two day field tours showcasing some of South Australia’s best landcare projects. Three days of lectures, discussions and workshops will follow.

Programs and registration forms are available from the conference secretariat on (08) 82127555.

______

Chatsworth House keeps its past and gets a future

For many farmers in the Western district history can be one of their biggest bills. The cost of upkeep on old bluestone homesteads and out buildings can be crippling. Some of these ‘grand old properties’ cease to be viable. They pass through numerous owners, often falling into a state of disrepair along the way.

Chatsworth House is one such property that has been bought back to life by an owner keen to invest in both history and the future. Jean Claude Desmet is a Melbourne business man who haisl originally from France. He first saw Chatsworth House with its magnificant but run-down, 1850’s bluestone homestead and stables in 1993. He took up the challenge of restoring the property to its former grandeur and indulging his passions for horses and hunting.

Desmet is a Melbourne-based owner who is also committed to renovating and improving the property. He appointed Jack Donaldson as Manager of Chatsworth House and they set about developing a five year plan to turn around the farms environment and economics. The property is around 3,500 acres. It produces fine Merino wool, cattle, horses and has 400 acres of cropping.

Jack says their first plan was to return trees to the property. They had some old photographs that showed the now barren and salty land was once heavily treed. But it was obvious any trees simply wouldn’t survive until they tacked a massive rabbit problem.

“In March 1997 we did a count of 250 acres. We saw over 400 rabbits. It wasn’t unusual to go out shooting over a weekend and come back with 150 pair,” he said.

Jack planned an extensive 1080 campaign. Over one tonne of poisoned carrots were laid across the problem areas of the property. This has been followed by ripping of warrens and gassing of hard to get at areas.

Jack says the campaign has been a huge success. “Recently we did a count on the same 250 acres and came up with 23 rabbits. In fact there are probably even less now, as our follow up work has been very thorough.”

Jack has also been busy with new fencing. This will reduce stock access to the Hopkins River which flows through the property. Jack says previous owners had concentrated on extracting sand from the river and this was another reason why the property was neglected. The five year plan also includes an extensive pasture renovation program.

Jack says the neighbouring farmers have been really positive about the works at Chatsworth House. “There is a good sense of community, with people helping each other out and lending machinery. I think the locals are relieved that the place is getting back to the way it should be, “he said.

With renovations to the homestead and stables now almost complete Jean Claude Desmet is a regular rider with the local Ellerslie Hunt.

______

Save on fencing by going around in circles By Frank Carland, NRE Colac

Clumps of trees in the middle of paddocks can have advantages, stock are always able to find shelter whatever direction the weather is coming from.

The type of tree species selected can also add to the value of clump or block plantings. Select trees that not only provide shelter but also have value for timber, firewood and fodder.

There are a number of options available when it comes to designing forestry blocks. Running a fence across a corner to create a trianble can be efficient because it utilises existing fences. Likewise a square or rectangle in the corner of a paddock can save on fencing materials.

When it comes to mid-paddock forestry blocks, a circle design is a very favourable option. This is best explained by comparing the relative merits of some common shapes.

A circle design saves on material and labour. There is also a lack of short strains, which often go slack due to the slight movement of end assemblies. This shape can be useful for fencing out clumps of remnant native vegetation, which is a cheaper alternative to planting trees.

For further information contact the NRE Colac office on (03) 52335500.

See pdf file titled farming in circles for illustrations.

______

Farm$mart gets bigger and better By Greg Smith, VFF

Farm$mart is moving into stage two with a healthy funding increase that will see more Farm$mart facilitators and more modules offered.

Farm$mart is Victoria’s Property Management Planning (PMP) program. It helps farmers to be more profitable, farm sustainable and be better risk and business managers.

Farm$mart provides information and skills development over eight areas:

• Missions, goals and objectives • Natural Resource Management • Enterprise Management • Marketing Management • Self and Staff Management • Risk Management • Financial Planning and Control • Information Management

There are several topics or modules in each of the eight areas, the topics are covered in a group sessions of two to three hours.

Stage two of Farm$mart will develop stronger linkages with industry programs like Target 10, TOPCROP and several pastoral industry programs. There is also a strong regional influence on the program. Farmers led steering committees plan projects for their areas of Mallee, Wimmera, North Central, South West, North East, Gippsland, Port Phillip and Northern Irrigation.

For further information on Farm$mart contact your regional office of NRE or the VFF.

______

New Structures for Catchment Management The State Government has announced the creation of 9 Catchment Management Authorities following a major review into structural arrangements across Victoria.

Minister for Conservation & Land Management Marie Tehan and Minister for Agriculture and Resources Pat McNamara said the new Authorities would take the roles of the existing Catchment and Land Protection Boards, river management authorities, salinity implementation groups, water quality groups and sustainable regional development committees.

The new Authorities will be formally established from 1 July this year based on existing CALP regions. Their key task will be to effectively and efficiently implement the recently released Regional Catchment Strategies.

Other key roles of the new Catchment Management Authorities will include identifying priority activities and work programs under the Regional Catchment Strategies, providing advice to the State and Federal Governments on resourcing priorities and negotiating with the Department of Natural Resources & Environment on regional service delivery.

Mr McNamara said the new catchment management arrangements would, for the first time, bring together the efforts of community service delivery and advisory groups, resulting in a whole of catchment approach. The Minister said the CMA’s and their implementation committees would provide a clearer focus for regional decision making and strengthen links with the landcare movement.

Mrs Tehan said the decision to create the new Authorities was based on the recommendations of the Catchment Management Structures Working Party established last year to review the current arrangements for catchment management in Victoria.

The review involved a comprehensive public consultation process and attracted 182 submissions.

The establishment of the new Catchment Management structure will enable a fully integrated approach to sustainable development and conservation of land and water resources, Mrs Tehan said.

The Ministers said the new Catchment Management Structures, combined with the Regional Catchment Strategies and the prospect of additional resources under the Natural Heritage Trust would result in major advances in sustainable natural resource management in Victoria.

______

Landfest a huge success By Tarnya Kruger, NRE Creswick

During 1996 the idea of a carnival type day at the Creswick Landcare Centre was first mooted. We hoped, but never imaged that it would be the success that it finally was on Sunday March 23rd during Landcare Month. More than 1500 people braved the weather for an action packed day.

Landfest planning involved three Landcare groups, Baldhills/Creswick, Beckworth/Bolton and Ulina, a number of local community groups, the Creswick Nursery and of course the Landcare Centre. Landfest was desinged to be a fun family day, hosting many of the locally grown produce and talents, an opportunity for everyone to enjoy, discover, learn, share and embrace the concept of landcare – the community working and celebrating together.

There were over 40 staff holders offering a range of goods and information – local winers, honey, wood turning, pottery, organic foods, permaculture, the Ballarat Regional Seed Bank, horse and cart rides, animal mobile making, music and theatre to name a few. There was plenty of hot food provided by the local primary schools of Creswick North and Smeaton and the Ballarat Steiner Kindergarten prepared some interesting treats.

It would be great to see a number of “landfests” taking place across Victoria during Landcare Month, - you may like to contact us about information and ideas for a Landfest near you! Call Creswick Landcare Centre on 03 52542200.

______

Redfin return to the Hopkins

A panel beater, a grocery shop owner and a few farmers. In fact the Caramut and Hexham Angling Club has only either members. But this hadn’t deterred them from planting over 700 trees in a bid to improve their favourite fishing spot on the Hopkins River.

Annette Patinson, the club’s president, says she has fished in the river for a slong as she can remember. “We catch mainly trout and eels. There have been no redfin in the river for the past six or seven years but this year three have been caught already. We put this down to our ‘Fisherman’s Friends Tree Planting Project”.

Annette Patinson said club members first started to get concerned when severe erosion along the river caused it to get wider and wider.

The club has received two grants from NRE to cover fencing materials and the purchase of native trees. The works have been carried out on an area of crown frontage downstream from the club’s main fishing spot.

Annette explained the plantation: a variety of eucalypts, wattles and tea trees. The smaller trees are at the front to bind the river banks and the larger gums at the back to provide shelter for stock. The planted area has been fenced to keep stock out until the trees are establishing.

“We had the rods in while we were planting the trees so it was a big of fun as well as a lot of hard work. We’ve only watered the trees twice and they’ve survived really well despite the hot summer,” Annette said.

Annette’s message to other angling clubs is that no matter how small they are, river restoration is well worthwhile. “If we want to keep fishing, looking after the future of the rivers is essential.”

______

In brief

Picturing Landcare Do you have a great photograph showing a person, a pic or progress in landcare? Landcare Australia is running a major photographic competition sponsored by Fuji Film. There are a number of difference categories, winners will receive cash and other prizes. Entries close on July 30th 1997. Call 1800 151 105 for entry details.

Saltwatch on the web Saltwatch celebrates its 10th year in 1997, and it has been estimated that over 100,000 students, teachers, community and Landcare groups have taken part over the years – a lot of salt watched! It is Australia’s longest running community monitoring program.

This year Saltwatch has gone global. You can view the Saltwatch data collection on the internet at: http://dse.vic.gov.au/saltwatch/

Victoria hosts International Landcare Conference The State and Federal Governments have just announced that Victoria will host the first ever International Landcare Conference in the year 2000. The conference aims to share our experience of this unique program and learn about overseas challenges and models. Further information is available from Jo Safstrom at NRE on (03) 94124382.

Rural Seminar and Training Program Hosted by Greening Australia and NRE this series of rural seminars and bus tours targets revegetation and land conservation issues. Topics include fire management, catchment management, managing wetlands, direct seeding, grasslands, riparian and waterways management and red gum decline on the western plains. The seminar and bus tours will be held at five regional venues. For more information call Gerard Clark on (03) 94573024.

______

Farmers fox control efforts pay off for the whole district

John Brewis remembers shooting foxes when he was a kid. They were always a problem and his father was kept constantly busy. “I’d hate going into the paddocks to see a lamb still alive, but with its nose bitten off by a fox overnight.”

John Brewis farms 4,000 acres at Strathkellar on the outskirts of Hamilton. He has co-ordinated an innovative Foxoff baiting program in the area.

Four years ago John read about Foxoff in the papers and thought it had to be better than shooting. “When you’re getting on a bit the last thing you want to be doing is staying up all night shooting foxed, “he says.

John organised a field day on his property and invited all his neighbours. In face he managed to convince almost everyone over a 10 mile square area o get involved and make a commitment to lay baits within three weeks of the field day.

Before the foxoff program John was seeing 18 to 20 foxes over a 40km area. After baiting there were three or four foxes over the same area. John says the key to success with foxoff is getting people to do it together. He recommends baits should be laid six to eight weeks prior to lambing and calving. “If everyone makes a commitment to lay baits at the same time the benefits are much greater than trying to do it on your own, “he says. John has tried to main the enthusiasm in his area by repeating the Foxoff field day each year. He has been assisted by John Mathews from NRE at Casterton who has created a ‘fox control results map’ for the area.

John Mathews assisted landholders to mark and monitor foxoff on the map and record their lambing percentages. They have been adding to the map each year and it now has some pretty convincing evidence about why farmers should get involved. John Mathews says farmers can easily quantify what they spend on internal parasites through drenching bills but they often don’t have abudget for ‘external parasites’ like foxes. He is confident that Foxoff provides good returns for a fairly small outlay.

John Brewis estimates his own lambing percentages have improved by six to eight percent. John says the good thing about Foxoff is that it works 24 hours a day. “At around $1 a bait it’s reasonably priced anda lot less labour intensive than shooting.”

When John is out laying his baits he tries to hink like a fox. For particularly wily foxed he has dragged a carcass along the bait trail or dribbled tuna oil on the side of a fence post near the bait.

John is convinced that Foxoff is really the only way to get on top of the fox problem.

______

Weevil battles spear thistle

Conditions could hardly have been worse when Conservation & Land Management Minister, Marie Tehan and local member Dennis Napthing, visited a property at Strathdownie to see the latest developments in a biological control program aimed at reducing spear thistle.

The visit took place at the height of summer; the temperature hovered around 45 degrees, perfect for all star attraction: the thistle receptacle weevil.

The four to six millimetre long, brown beetle is a natural enemy fo spear thistle and has been imported in an effort to control the weed.

Thistles have long been a problem for managers of agricultural land. Their spines contaminate wool and cause injury to stock. Their rapid invasion reduces the area of productive grazing.

The party at Strathdownie heard how researchers from the Keith Turnbull Research Institute at Frankston are progressing with their trials with the thistle receptacle weevil.

One of the project, partly funded by the International Wool Secretariat, is to develop a series of nursery sites for rearing the weevils. Once the site network is established in an area, landcare groups harvest weevils from the nurseries and help redistribute them throughout the state.

Up to 50 adult weevils are released inside a mesh tent over an infestatiaon of thistles in late spring. At the end of summar, offspring weevil numbers at each of the nursery sites are assessed. The greater the number of weevils, the better the seed destruction rate.

The 1997 assessments have begun with some very promising news. An eightfold increase from the initial release populations has been reported at some sites.

KTRI staff are currently assessing other biocontrol agents at the institute, these include:

• Gall fly is also being used against spear thistle • Plume moth and clearwing moth are being used against horehound • Bitou tortoise beetle, bitou tip moth and seed flies used against boneseed • Crown weevil, root weevil and taproot flea beetle against Paterson’s curse • Stunt mite against St John’s wort • Clearing moth against docks • Stem and crown boring moth, cinnabar moth and flea beetles against ragwort • Rust fungi against slender thistles and tutsan.

______

A 20 year battle with salt in Campaspe West

After sharefarming at Tongala for 7 years, Ron & Judy Kay eventually acquired their own dairy farm on a new Rural Finance Commission (RFC) subdivision, a little north of Rochester. Barely a year later a rapidly worsening salt problem resulted in bare paddocks and declining productivity, and threatened to make their stay at Rochester a very short one. Here’s now Ron & Judy tackled the problem, ‘stopped the salt’, and returned their farm to full production.

Q1 When did you start farming at Rochester? A We came here 21 years ago. The farm, which is 104 acres in size, was part of an extension of the soldier-settlement subdivision started west of Rochester. We are not soldier-settlers. Our opportunity to own our own farm was the result of a scheme to get young people back onto the land.

Before this area (the Campaspe West Irrigation District) was cup up, it was larger, dryland farms. We started with basically 75 acres of annual pasture and 29 acres of rubbish. There were very few trees. The house was quite unprotected and exposed.

The soil here is very good, probably something like a red-brown sandy loam, and it naturally drains well. You can easily walk on the paddocks a day after watering. We think the soil here is more productive than at Tongala, and that may be due to the fact it drains so well. Our rainfall here is about 18 inches a year. This supplemented by a water right of 160 megalitres, with a further 9 megalitres of Stock & Domestic water.

Q2 When did you realise you had a salinity problem? A It started showing up barely a year after we got here. I (Ron) was born on a dairy farm at Undera and have had a lifetime in dairying, but this was my first experience with salt. It was a big shock to us, very scary. A neighbour even walked off his place after 4 years, it was so bad.

Q3 What were the visible signs of the problem? A Bare, black patches started appearing in the lowest parts of the farm. They were snow white in summer when the water evaporated, leaving the salt crystals. About 15 acres was just like a desert, with hardly anthing on it. Neighbouring farms had similar problems. In fact, some were even worse than our farm.

The watertable was right at the surface. When we dug holes, water literally bubbled out. The problem was caused basically by providing properties with a water right without ensuring that they were properly drained.

While we had a drainage channel it didn’t go right through the property, but stopped at the lowest point. And where the channel stopped the water ponded, the watertable rose – and up came the salt!

Q4 How did you go about fixing the problem? A The Department of Agriculture advised us to plant trees and sow tall wheat grass, which we did. We put trees along fencelines and sowed wheat grass through all our paddocks.

We extended our farm dainage channel a few chains to link up with the SR&WCS arterial drainage system. Then the SR&WSC, in conjunction with the Department installed a groundwater pump in the middle of our lowest spot, where the problem was the worst. We pumped water into the drainage channel, from where it went into the Campaspe River and eventually into the Murray. We weren’t allowed to do that for long because of concern about putting salt into the Campaspe. The rivers, though, are our natural drainage system.

Nowadays, we only pump into the drainage system from May to September, when people aren’t irrigating and the rivers’ flows are usually at their highest. Water is pumped away from the Campaspe River into the Bamawm drains, from where it flows into the Murray.

During the watering season we put our pumped-out water back onto the paddocks as irrigation water. It is shandied at the water wheel in the ratio of 12 parts of good water with 1 part of salty water.

In the mid 1980’s Tatura started doing experiments here with different mixes of shadied water. As we recall, they used up to 50 per cent of pumped water. With our well-drained soil, and the watertable at depth, there were no apparent differences.

Q5 How effective has the groundwater pumping been? A This has really been the key to beating the salt. The watertable started going down immediately, and plants started coming back onto the bare ground. The watertable is now down at about 9 feet at our lowest poing – and we aim to keep it down there. The level of salt in our pumped water has also dropped from around 3,000 ppm (parts per million) when we started pumping to its current level of around 1,700 ppm.

We sowed wheat grass into the bare areas. This species doesn’t seem to have much feed value but it is valuable in establishing plant cover on salty ground. When clover and perennial grasses started coming in, the wheat grass declined. Q6 Has it been a long and costly job? A It has taken around 20 years to get right on top of the salt problem, but we seem to have it beaten now. We owe a lot to the government departments for advice and for installing the pump and supplying fueld and soil. For our part, we had to maintain the equipment and keep it going. A couple of years ago government assistance ceased and we had to buy the pumping equipment from Goulburn-Murray Water. We did, however, receive an 80 per cent subsidy on the purchase price. But now we are on our own we will have to bear all future costs ourselves. GMW still monitors the quantity and quality of groundwater removed by pumping.

We had also had to supply seed, tree seed, tractor hours, and so on. The local shire subsidised trees for a 1 for 1 basis, up to 100 per year.

We started planting a variety of gums, and also paperbarks (melaleucas). As trees died, we just keep replacing them. The melaleucas have done the best in the long run. Of course, no dairy farm is complete without its willows and these have done well also.

Q7 So the farm is now producing at maximum potential? A We think so. When we first ran into salinity problems, we milked a maximum of 70 Fresian cows. Nowadays we are milking 115. Milk production per cow is much higher, too. Our total milk production is probably at least double what it was 20 years ago.

Our paddocks now have good pastures, consisting of white and strawberry clovers and perennial ryegrass and paspalum. We don’t supplementary feed in the bale. We buy in all our hay and fee it out from mid autumn until early spring.

With the watertable under control, and paddocks sown down to well- maintained improved pastures, we feel our milk production is now at a high and sustainable level. As far as salt is concerned we hope, for us, it is a thing of the past.” ______

Rebuilding bridges between city and country – Goal of a new urban/rural alliance By Gib Wettenhall

Once, when Australia’s cities were smaller, almost every city person had a friend or relative in the country who they would visit regularly. Those days are gone.

For the 85 per cent of Victorians who live in cities, rural Australia has become an alien place – unvisited, unloved.

Rebuilding bridges between city and country is the goal of a new urban/rural alliance calling itself the Urban Rural Links Program. Members of the alliance include farmers, landcare groups, councils and some 20 city and country schools. Funding for an ambitious community education program is being provided by the 10 urban and rural councils using educational packages developed by NRE community education officers.

Following the recent appointment of a co-ordinator, the alliance is set this April to bring classes of primary school children and their teachers to experience first hand life and death on a farm, as well as exposing them to land degradation problems and what is being done to combat them. One thousand children are expected to make overnight stays or school camps, initially within the Shepparton Irrigation Region, then with other rural councils who are members of the program. Rural children will also be given an opportunity to experience city life and urban landcare.

“If rural Australia is to have a future at all, we have to build a bridge to the consumers of tomorrow so they will grown to become adults with some understanding of agricultural processes and the changes require to sustain and conserve our country’s natural resources, “claimed Ingrid Duncan, the Urban Rural Links Program’s first co- ordinator. She believes the program has the potential to make rural Australia accessible to those living in cities.

One of the prime movers in the program, NRE community education officer, Geoff McFarlane, expects it to go nation-wide with 10,000 school children involved within five years.

Amazing ignorance

Members of the Undera Landcare Group are all to aware that rural Australia has become an alien place to urban youth in particular. Mainly dairy farmers within the intensively-farmed, 500,000 hectare Shepparton Irrigation Region, members of the landcare group played host to school children from the former municipality of Essendon over a two year period from 1993.

Three executive members of the landcare group gathered around a kitchen table, recalling their amazement at how little the kids knew about the source of the good products on their supermarket shelves.

With a wry laugh Stuart Drysdale, the immediate past chairperson of the Undera Landcare Group, remembered how some kids had even commented how milk fresh from the dairy pail tasted better than the real thing (in supermarkets, that is).

“Many of the kids had never seen a calf close up, let alone a cow giving birth to a calf,” chimed in Graham Meneilly, the current chairperson.

“They were fascinated by the sight of a dead cow,” said the landcare group’s secretary, Barry Osborne. “They loved running in the mud or picking blackberries, covering their faces in red stuff.”

Beginnings

The origins of the Urban Rural Links Program go back to the return of the major of the City of Essendon from his holidays in the summer of 1993.

As the major, Alistair Fraser, passed through the Shepparton Irrigation Region, be heard on the radio that the rising watertable threatened to destroy farming in the Murray Darling Basin, one of the powerhouses of Australian agriculture, accounting for 25 per cent of rural exports. On making enquiries, he found that what he thought sounded unbelieveable was, in fact, true.

Using his authority as mayor, he committed Essendon Council to providing funds in conjunction with a successful National Landcare Program bid aimed at sending kids from Essendon schools on field trips to learn about life on the farm and the land degradation farmers faced. “At first the kids and teachers only came for a day,” Geoff McFarlane remembers. “Wed rush them around the busy reserve. They didn’t even get to kick the dusk on a farm. We soon learn it was not the way to do it.”

That was when the farming members of a number of landcare groups, including the Undera Landcare Group, become involved as enthusiastic hosts not only giving the kids a free run on their farms, but also showing them the problems associated with a steadily rising watertable.

To improve educational outcomes, teachers from the Essendon schools undertook in-service training with a focus on learning about salinity and what was being done to combat it.

After two years of successful operation, this precursor to the Urban Rural Links Program was abandoned with the arrival of municipal amalgamations.

Reborn anew Now a commissioner at Melton, Alistair Fraser has once again played a key role in creating a broader, deeper successor to the Essendon project. In the new alliance, six urban councils are involved (Darebin, Hume, Melton, Moonee Valley, Stonnington & Wyndham) and four regional councils (Campaspe, Greater Bendigo, Loddon Moira), plus the Municipal Association of Victoria.

In its first year of operation, the Urban Rural Links Program has a budget of $50,000 with the urban councils contribution $5,000 per year and the regional councils $3,000 per year.

A thoroughbred horse breeder and former salinity link worker, the program’s co- ordinator, Ingrid Duncan, is based at the Bundoora Park Children’s Farm. Its scaled down ‘cottage’ version of a farm brings town and country together, offering a natural progression for introducing young children to the countryside itself, says Geoff McFarlane.

Through her work with the Upper Maribyrnong Catchment Group, Ingrid played a vital role in instituting landcare activities at Daraweit Guim Primary School, a small rural school between Kilmore and Romsey which her three children have attended. With just over 50 children and only three teachers, Daraweit Guim P.S’s impressive achievements highlight the potential for making conservation and environment a central part of the curriculum.

Landcare activities enthusiastically embraced by both teachers and students at Daraweit Guim P.S. include watertable monitoring of the creek behind the school, site revegetation and road planting of a ‘landcare avenue’, putting in a Korri garden with more than a 100 varieties of bush tucker plants, interviews with ‘old-timers about what the area was like when they were young, contributing to a ‘Landcare for Kids’ brochure and performing a play and singing at venues as varied as the launches of the Decade of Landcare and Saltwatch Week, as well as appearing on ‘Burke’s Backyard.’

Different perspectives Each of the participants to the Urban Rural Links Program sees its value from a different perspective. “One of the rural councils believes that if one kid visits and develops an interest in the country, studies to become a doctor and moves to the country, then the whole program will be worth it,” says Ingrid Duncan.

“Another council wants to create links which increase ties and the circulation of city people through their region. Yet another sees urban and rural areas as polarised with the program acting as a way of breaking down barriers & divisiveness.”

The dairy farmers of the Shepparton Irrigation Region have their own vision for the program too. They want more than greater understanding and awareness. They want city folk to appreciate and value their existence.

Barry Osborne summed up what they feel best. “There’s no hope for those of us who live off the land unless we have empathy from those we sell to in the cities. If they feel comfortable, we’ve got them as friends. They’ll appreciate that things actually happen beyond the end of the tram track that are worth saving.”

______

Farming the natural way By William Twigg

My family farm is at Bears Lagoon, 60 km North of Bendigo on the Loddon Plains. It is a mixed farm – sheep, grains and cattle. The soils are naturally poorly structured red duplex type (average 5.5pH) with shallow top soil and dense clay.

The Loddon Plains were originally savannah woodlands. The area has been heavily cleeared, and we have been left with a harsh environment and some areas of dryland salinity. My family has farmed in the Bears Lagoon area for almost ninety years so we have a lot of history to draw on when making decisions. In 1970 we had 1,500 acres and were farming with traditional methods. But we began to notice that although yields were good our expenses were high in comparison to our gross income.

We made a decision to set about reducing our expenses while trying to maintain yield. After many years we have been able to develop a system of farming in sympathy with the environment and nature which has enabled us to achieve this aim. The biggest obstacle I had to overcome in developing this system and understanding my land was with myself. The ingrained beliefs and attitudes to the leand, that all my life I had accepted from other people, farming books and farming traditions.

Farm like a drug addict When we were farming traditionally our farm became like a drug addict – the more we put in, the more the land demanded to achieve a satisfactory yield. We felt we were using most of the fertility in our soil to pay the cost of the inputs. We concluded that a smaller yield per acre with less expenses would be almost as profitable, and considering the reduced demand on soil fertility, much more profitable in the long term. Over the last twenty five years we have rarely needed to use inputs such as fertilisers, drenches, supplementary feeding, and dips.

The secret of this system is in the development of Lucerne, a deep rooted perennial plant, as our major pasture species. Lucerne is similar in root growth to much of the original vegetation of our areas, it has the ability to recycle nutrients and moisture to the soil surface. With our whole farm sown to Lucerne we are able to double the dry sheep equivalent (DSE) per acre compared to traditional annual pasture. The Lucerne also uses rainfall more effectively which helps eliminate dryland salinity.

Imitating nature on the farm We try to imitate nature on the farm by establishing Lucerne at a density of one to three plants per square metre. This is similar to the density of the original native vegetation int his area, it allows annuals to thrive in winter and spring and provide a balanced pasture for livestock. Clovers and Rye Grass are also sown to improve soil fertility and structure. In contrast to most other farming systems where wateratables are rising, in our system the sinking of test bores has shown that the watertable is receding.

With the introduction of Lucerne we have moved to spring lambingh, which is after all natures time to reproduce. Spring lambing has increased our lambing percentages by at least20 per cent. As the feed requirements of the stock follow the pasture production more closely than in autumn lambing, no supplementary feeding is needed. We sell the prime lambs in the higher priced markets of February and March.

Our Lucerne pastures are rotationally grazed and for this reason we do not need to drench livestock. Rotational grazing imitates the cycles of native animals, they grazed and polluted one area and moved to another, reducing the spread of worms and disease.

Our approach to weeds also tries to imitate what happens in nature. When weeds appear in certain areas of our farm this is telling us something about soil conditions, nature is trying to balance her system. If a particular weed is causing a problem it is because the land really needs what that plant has to give, or, the land is badly in need of a rest. It is the same with sick and unhealthy plants, nature responds to imbalance by sending in insects to destroy them.

In nature we find that the sick and unhealthy individuals as are culled out – this keeps the species strong and continually evolving and improving over time. Instead of spraying unwanted weeds we use heavy stocking to manipulate the weeds to our advantage and correct the imbalance of the pasture or soil.

All we sell is fertility The next major change occurred on our farm in the mid 1980’s. We came to the realisation that as farmers all we sell is our fertility, (sunlight or energy) to produce our income. Cereals extract massive amounts of fertility but bring in only 20 cents per kg. Meat brings in around $2 per kg and wool $4-$5 per kg. Since we have reduced our cereal production our fertility has increased and so has our profitability.

Trees are an integral part of our farming system. We plant 5,000 indigenous trees each year to improve the landscape and soften the environment. The trees are planted in irregular clumps of five to ten acres (100 trees per acre planted). We plant a large percentage of acacias, which put nitrogen back into the soil for eucalypts and other species to feed from. When most of the acacia’s are dead, (in 10-15 years) the area is burnt to promote regeneration, as in a forest fire the eucalypts survive.

The threes have brought in increase in bird activity. We encourage them to breed and become part of our workforce. All native species, plant, animal and insect are needed to create a balanced system. Lose one and it starts an ecological chain reaction. Along with the changes on the farm I have also changed my approach with people. I used to argue and debate and try to covert people to may way of thinking and seeing things and feel disheartened and depressed when they didn’t change. Now I’m much more interested in actually doing it myself and showing it can be done.

A get a great deal of personal satisfaction from seeing the ways of nature and adapting them to our farming system. Our farm has increased from 1,500 acres in 1970 to 10,000 acres now. It is a profitable and sustainable enterprise. I am happy to share my ideas and experience with people are are interested but don’t judge anyone for what they do on their own properties.

______

The Junction Corridors of Green Project Take 100 families, a few dollars and a degraded river…

The Central Hopkins Land Protection Association is a strange beast. It consists of five landcare groups, three fishing clubs, Deakin University, the Royal Australasian Omithologists Union, local schools and government organisations.

The Association has given birth to an ambitious project to create a corridor of green along the Hopkins River from Chatsworth to Framlingham. The web of green will spread across the landscape linking the Cobra Killuc Wildlife Reserve with the river and the Salt Creek and Blind Creek catchments.

The project will erect 47km of protective fencing and establish around 125,000 native trees over the next two years. The on ground works include stream degradation, improved pastures for dryland salinity and habitat improvement for the soon to be released Eastern Barred Bandicoot.

The project plan has a staggering list of objectives: • To protect and revegetate areas of the Hopkins River, Salt Cree, Blind Creek and Mustons Creek, Including re-establishing missing understorey species. • To provide linkages or habitat corridors into the ‘islands’ of significant habitat within the project area • To control predators using Foxoff. This will help to protect native animals in the local bushland reserves and promote their movement into new corridors. • To collect data on the rivers, creeks and wetlands through a Waterwatch Program run by local schools.

The projet will also provide a boost for the flagging local economy with all supplies being sourced from the small country town of Mortlake.

Richard Weatherly is the Chairperson of the Association. He is also a renowned wildlife artist, an innovator in direct seeding technology and the owner of ‘Coonewarran,’ a 4,000 acre Merino stud at Mortlake. Richard is pragmatic about how the project got off the ground.

“A year ago this project was only a dream, there were landcare groups in the area and they were doing good things. But now for the first time we have co-ordinated. It has bought 100 families together and a grant of around $27,000. Certainly the ‘threat’ of getting some corridors of green funding was one of the things that spurred us into action. But it is also a critical time for agriculture in the area. Our money comes from wool and beef which are both poor. Eighty percent of the money going into this project comes from the landholders themselves, a considerable commitment when cash is short”.

Richard says the future of the project depends on farm incomes and ‘p[erceptions’. Any farm, “he states,” can put one to one and a half percent of their gross turnover into sustainability. People have to perceive that this work is an integral part of their farm management to create an energy that will run on.”

Richard is blunt bout who benefits from the ‘landcare type’ projects. “The primary benefits goes back to the farmers in increased productivity. Maybe five percent goes to the community. If farmers want to have a saleable asset in 5, 10 or 20 years time there is simply no question that they have to get involved in sustainability.

The backbone of the Junction Corridors of Green Project is the combined knowledge and commitment from the four landcare Groups: Hopkins, Woorndoo, Blind Creek and Ellerslie. The planning, administration and communication alone in a project of this scale is time consuming and complex. Each of the main parties has a representative on the steering committee who then reports back to their own membership.

Richard recognises the complexity of administering such a consortium. “Of the people involved some show passion and some show leadership. We have to utilise people’s skills quickly before they get burnt out.”

“We have spread the enthusiasm so that innovators can innovate rather than administer. And we must allow for different approaches. No two families are ever the same, some don’t look beyond the next week, others work with detailed plans for the next fifty years.”

The Association recognises the importance of providing graphic examples of their work. They will be establishing ‘photo points’ at each of their sites for six monthly recording of progress. The photographs will provide a reference point on the conditions of the resource and allow measurement of change over time.

Ultimately, Richard Weatherly says the project needs to branch out and find some corporate sponsorship. His job is to delegate. He is confident that amongst the 100 families involved he can turn up someone with the ability to talk to sponsors.

The Central Hopkins Land Protection Association has a lot to provide over the next few years. But it also has a Chairperson motivated by getting the job done and using the best possible model. Richard is continually in contact with a network of colleagues overseas and says we have much to learn from similar projects in South Africa and Canada.

Victorian Landcare will provide updates on the progress of the Junction Corridor of Green Project in future issues.

______

When school is a Merino stud

Cally Greagen admits to not knowing much about farming. A student at Mortlake College in south west Victoria, she was often on the outer when her school friends swapped stories bout farm life. Cally took the challenge of studying farm management for the year 12 VCE geography unit she is attempting ayear early, in year 11. The unit requires an in- depth study (common assessment ask or CAT) of the use and management of a resource. Cally and four other students from Mortlake College hve been studying ‘Connewarran’ a 4,000 acre merino sheep stud near Mortlake.

Cally says studying Connewarran has been an eye opening experience. She knew farming was hard work but had no idea of the breadth of knowledge a farmer needed. “The first time I went our for a visit I was really overshelmed by the amount of information that Richard Weatherly (Connewarran’s owner and manager) had about the property,” she said.

Cally and the other students first task was to create a use and management table for the farm. This helped them to focus on what happens on the property at a particular time and the management strategies Richard used.

“When Richard first talked bout drenching I didn’t even know what he meant. The more time we’ve spent at Connewarran the more we’ve started to see things happen at different times of the year and know where they fit into the big picture. Richard has a very scientific approach, he experiments, plans and records what happens all the time. His philosophy is about managing a whole ecosystem which is very complex.” Cally says completing the CAT has been hard work. And with a limit of only 2,000 words much of the information she has collected will be recorded in maps, plans, tables and graphs.

Richard Weatherly says that students like Cally who have no prior farming knowledge can actually have an advantage in undertaking this sort of project. “So often farmers do things because it has always been done that way. Students like Cally ask why, they bring fresh ideas and a different perspective.”

Cally says she has appreciated the sense of peace at Connewarran. One of Richard’s motivations for getting involved was to share a special environment. “I recognise how fortunate I am to have this property and the lifestyle that goes with it. And I am genuinely interested in people. These students are not only the next farmers they are also the next business leaders, politicians, lawyers and engineers. Projects like this make learning real and increase community understanding of resource management.”

Cally says she would like a career in business management. If she stays in the country her new-round knowledge of farming has got to be an advantage.

______

Scaling the heights – NLP final project reports By Jane Ryan, NRE

Why did the landcare group committee climb Mount Everist? Because the other option was writing their National Landcare Program final project report!

There is no need for these extremes. Its really very easy to write that report. Read on for the seven main details of project reports. Jargon follows in brackets.

• What did you want to do? (objectives) • What did you do? (activities/outputs) • What did you achieve? (outcomes) • Who helped? (participants) • Did you get your face in the paper? • What did you spend the money on? • If you triumphed against huge difficulties (eg bureaucracy-gone-mad, mother nature, the absent neighbours) tell us your secret • If you didn’t, warn others of the pitfalls.

Remember your report is very important, it does get read and is an opportunity for you to influence the NLP. It must be written within three months of project completion.

The easiest way of being prepared for writing your final report is to think about it when you start the project! Start by asking yourself what changes you expect to see and how will you measure these changes?

With your expectations worked out you can gather the information you need for your report as you proceed.

The good news is that a final report form has been produced to make life easier for groups.

Groups can obtain this form from Jane Ryan on (03) 96378373 or their Regional NLP Contact Officer at the Department of Natural Resources & Environment.

______

New rabbit weapon launched with a thud

With no more fanfare than a dull thud, a new weapon has been launched in the fight against rabbits.

More than 50 landholders from the Alcoa Woady Yaloak Catchment Project were part of the recent Australian launch of Rid-a-Rabbit.

Invented by retired gasfitter George Douglas, Rid-a-Rabbit destroys burrows quickly and easily by igniting a ‘charge’ of liquid petroleum (LP) gas blown down a warren.

The resulting explosion concusses the rabbits, starves the burrow of air and partly collapses the tunnels.

The results are deal rabbits and an unusable burrow.

Inspiration George was motivated to develop the technology by two events.

The first was seeing the rabbit menace on his sister’s property at Casterton.

The second was seeing the damage after a friends campervan was brown apart by escaping gas from a stove griller.

Thinking laterally, George put the two together. The technology for Rid-a-Rbit has been three years in the making and extensive trialing before commercial release.

Three hundred burrows were treated 10 months ago and not a single burrow has been re-inhabited’ said George.

“I think the fumes of the explosion makes the burrows smell and the rabbits don’t like going back.”

Thirty burrows in the Woady Yaloak catchment were treated as part of the launch and are being eagerly watched by local landholders to test the maker’s claims.

Potential Fred Heard, a member of the Woady Yaloak catchment rabbit sub committee, can see the potential for Rid-a-Rabbit in the Woady Yaloak Catchment.

“After a good bating program, it is frustrating to see rabbit numbers build up because of the difficulty in getting rid of the last few? Fred said.

“Fumigation is slow because it involves having to search each opening and then using a highly toxic poison”.

‘This approach seems a lot simpler and quicker to use?.

According to the manufacturers of Rid-a-Rabbit, two people can treat about 15 five hole warrens per hour.

Safety and Cost John Hardiman, sales manager for Rid-a-Rabbit said the complete package costs $2,450. This includes the equipment, a comprehensive half day training course and a video.

“There is a skill in using the equipment and we want landholders who use the machine to have success? John said.

“This means knowing how to use it responsibly and safely”.

George Douglas recommends two people work together in a team.

“You need one person to set the charge and the other to ignite the mixture”, George said.

“The technology may seem simple but has canbe dangerous if not used correctly?.

Woady Yaloak Purchase Justin Liddy the rabbit control facilitator with the catchment project, said the Woady Yaloak Catchment is purchasing two machines this year.

Justin will help operate the equipment, in partnership with each individual landholder.

“We will be making the equipment available to landholders with the support of a trained operator’ Justin said.

“The landholders will help me locate the burrows and ignite the charge”. For more information contact: Justin Lidy, Woady Yaloak Catchment Group, (03) 5344741. John Hardiman, Rid-a-Rabbit, (03) 98575277.

______

Corangamite ‘Reps’ succeed in Ragwort control

An innovative new approach to controlling Ragwort is paying off in Victoria’s Corangamite region. The Rural Extension Persons (REPS) Program has doubled the area of Ragwort treated in the last year.

Under the program six Rural Extension Persons have been employed on a part-time basis to work in specific ragwort trouble spots. The REPS are local people who work within their local communities. The REPS are located at Deans Marsh, Heytesbury, Winchelsea, Hawkenest, Lavers Hill and Curdies Valley areas specifically identified as a high priority under the Regions Ragwort Strategy.

John Rowney, Senior Pest Plant and Animal Planner at the Department of Natural Resources & Environment Colac office said the REPS Program has been a huge success because of the high levels of personal contact.

“The REPS are highly visible within their communities, this has greatly increased levels of awareness and concern about Ragwort.”

“The ultimate aim of the REPS Program is to create an environment where landholders feel it is unacceptable to have any Ragwort on their properties,” he said.

REPS approach landholders, often by door knocking, to identify Ragwort infestation. They highlight the damaging environmental impacts of Ragwort and encourage the use of effective control techniques. The REPS are supported by local Catchment Management Officers from the Department of Natural Resources & Environment who provide backup and technical advice.

John Rowney said that because REPS work part-time they are very flexible.” We find that REPS often choose to work during the weekends so they can make contact with hobby farmers and absentee landholders.

“The REPS Program has benenfits at two levels. We are achieving a much higher rate of on-ground works hwile Catchment Management Officers have more time for strategic planning. This means new Landcare Groups has been created along with more press releases, displays and other extension materials.”

Ragwort has been identified as a priority week under the State Government’s recently announced War on Weeds strategy. The strategy includes a weeds awareness campaign, a Community Weed Control Scheme, a Local Government Weed Control Scheme, a Weeds Fighting Fund, a Priority Weed Eradication Scheme and a Weed Watch Scheme.

The State Government has committed $12 million to the weeds initiative over the next four years, with $3 million allocated for this years program.

Weeds are a high priority for the Corangamite Region, the recently released Corangamite Regional Catchment Strategy specifically targeted pest management as a priority area. The REPS program provides a model for other regions tackling similar natural resource management problems.

______

Minister declares war on weeds

The Minister for Conservation & Land Management, Marie Tehan has launched a $12 million dollar battle plan to address weeds throughout rural Victoria.

At the launch in Kilmore were (L to R) Craig Madden, Chairman of the Goulburn Broken CaLP Board Dryland Committee, Marie Tehan, Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Alistair Fraser, Chief Commissioner of the Shire of Melton and Linda Brownstein, Municipal Natural Resources Liaison Officer for the Goulburn Broken Dryland Salinity Plan. ______

National Landcare Facilitator now in Geelong

The new National Landcare Facilitator is now based in Geelong, Lachlan Polkinghorne took up the position as manager of the project in January of this year, and is based with the Rural Resources Group Pty Ltd, a team of agricultural consultants.

An important aim of the NLF Project will be to work with the community to develop structures that will ensure that the voice of community landcare is heard, so that the landcare community can participate more effectively in the national program.

Other aims of the NLF project are the identification of issues, facilitating the development of solutions and acting as a conduit between community Landcare and government. Community landcare groups display a great variety in the activities that are undertaken and the project aims to respond to this variety. Often two groups in the same region are carrying out similar activities with little knowledge of how the other is operating.

Adequate information exchange is necessary so that groups can utilise ideas and resources. In this way the landcare dollar can be spread over a wider area.

Lachlan is particularly keen to focus on a specific regional problem or issue, where communication to Canberra may help in resolving the problem.

Lachlan Polkinghorne, ph 03 52296050, fax 0352226643 email [email protected] ______

A wildlife corridor for Phillip Island By Bessie Hussey, Phillip Island Landcare Coordinator

Since forming in 1988 the Phillip Island Landcare Group has worked steadily for almost a decade. After this long the group has not lost momentum but has continued to grow and is about to embark on its biggest project yet.

With its largest membership ever (over 80 landholders) the group is in the throws of planning a Wildlife Corridor that extends the length of Phillip Island. The corridor will meander through thirteen farms incorporating existing habitat including remnant vegetation and farm shelterbelts. It will ink the Island’s two largest reserves, the Koala Conservation centre and the Phillip Island Penguin Reserve. Each of these reserves are currently isolated at either end of Phillip Island and support a diverse range of habitat including Ramsar wetlands, woodland and coastal heath.

By linking such areas the group hopes to provide vital habitat for wildlife to move through freely with out any barriers. Currently the fragments or ‘islands’ of natural vegetation occurring across farmland leaves animals vunerable to disease, bushfire, predation by feral animals, and even eventually inbreeding.

Phillip Island suffers from mild to severe dryland salinity and piesometers are checked every two months to monitor this. Apart from providing wildlife habitat and floral diversity members of the Phillip Island Landcare see this as an excellent opportunity to help lower saline watertable. Wherever possible the corridor will act as a break of slope planting in recharge areas in an attempt to reduce the amount of water entering the groundwater system.

The idea of a wildlife corridor of this size came from local dairy farmer and former group President, Jim McFee.

The Corridor Project has the support of the Phillip Island Nature Park, Bass Coast Shire Council, Friends of the Koalas and the Phillip Island Conservation Society.

The project was officially launched a the group’s Land for Wildlife Field Day on April 5th by the Hon Susan Davies, MLA Gippsland West, Ray Leivers, General Manager, Phillip Island Nature Park and Jim McFee planting the first three trees.

______

Sensor sheds light on good irrigation practice

John Buxton employs a Water Baby to assist with irrigation management. The Water Baby is a transmitter which is placed on the bay, when the water reaches the transmitter it creates a short and sends a signal to a pager which alerts the irrigator to shift the water.

John said, “the Water Baby has been a big help in improving irrigation management.” He has been able to reduce the amount of water applied at each irrigation and saves time attending the water. He now only has to go to the water when it is ready to shift. This eliminated guessing how long watering will take, and the problems of over watering.

John is a Victorian Farmers Federation Pastoral Councillor for Gippsland, and runs a 65 hectare high production beef farm at Bundalaguah, midway between Sale & Maffra, which is something of a success story. The farm is an area predominatly irrigated for dairying with good quality water supplied by the Macalister Irrigation System.

Most of the paddocks on John’s farm have been laster levelled which vastly increases the efficiency of irrigating, as well as reducing water usage. The pastures are sown with highly productive pastures, and are stocked at a rate of two-and-a-half cows and calves per hectare (or 35 DSE/HA). Electric fencing allows intensive controlled grazing which ensures that pasture is evenly grazed.

John says his pastures are irrigated on an as needs basis, therefore as little water as possible is used. Just prior to grazing pastures are topped by a mower at a height of about 7.5 cm. This makes the pasture more nutritious and palatable for cattle.

Along fence lines, trees have been strategically planted to provide shade and shelter for livestock as well as the potential for future income from timber sales.

John actively promotes the virtues of landcare in his local community, and believes tha tgood landcare practices are essential to good farm management. “There is a close link between landcare and on-farm productivity,” John says.

“Unfortunately, there is a production or income shortfall there is less money that can be spent on landcare works.”

______

Robinson at large Jim Robinson, Greening Australia Victoria

Vale Merv Joh, Community and Landcare Worker Extraordinaire

It was sad to read last November of the death of Merv John, the first secretary and stalwart member of the Southern Mallee Trees on Farm Group and a tireless community worker in Wycheproof for most of his nearly 80 years.

Merv’s first involvement with Wycheproof was to begin his engineering cadetship with the Shire in 1935. After serving in the war, he was Shire Engineer from 1950 until his retirement in 1982. His active community service record was extensive including CFA, RSL, Methodist Church, bowling and cricket clubs and Meals on Wheels, and he held many positions of responsibility and received service awards – a genuine “public servant”. He was named Wycheproof Citizen of the Year in 1988.

Merv was instrumental in the establishment in 1981 of the Southern Mallee Trees on Farms Group, one of the first four Farm Tree Groups in Victoria initiated jointly by the then Victorian Farmers and Graziers Association and the old Garden State Committee. He was still actively involved in the Group as Secretary-Treasurer virtually until his death.

Merv’s “Landcare” legacy is visibly apparent today throughout the whole Wycheproof Shire. The first revegetation in which he was involved were sugar gums along the Calder Highway and other main roads in the Shire in 1938 and 1939 in conjunction with the old Country Roads Board.

The next fifty eight years (except for seven and a half years in the army!) saw a range of projects and initiatives implemented by merv and the Shire, many of which would be lauded today as “innovative local government involvement in landcare!”

These included revegetation of Mount Wycheproof Public Park in the ‘50’s and 60’s, and many projects and schemes aimed at encouraging revegetation and retention of native vegetation on farms and roadsides for conservation purposes and to help control soil salting and wind erosion. In recent years, the Trees on Farms Group have mainly been involved with revegetation along three chain roads.

Merv’s many other links into his community ensured that projects were always collaborative efforts with schools, Lions Clubs, Young Farmers, and state conservation agencies.

In my experience, Merv was a generous, enthusiastic man without a “mean bone in his body” who, like many Mallee boys, liked a chat and could tell a good year! It is one of those regrets that I did not take him up on an offer early last year to see how all the projects were going!! RIP Merv.

Weeds and Farm Forestry or (hopefully) Killing Two Birds With One Stone!

The idea of combining high value farm forestry and at the same time controlling an appalling farm weed has considerable appeal!

During the last couple of years, several Landcare groups to the west of Melbourne with horrific “wall to wall” serrated tussock problems are looking to strategic revegetation to help control the weed in their area – while maybe growing a bit of timber.

It is hoped that, after spraying or cultivating the Tussock, closely planted farm forestry species with dense canopies (such as Black Wattle (Acacia mearnsii) and Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina vericillata) in this 15-20 inch rainfall area) will help to control this and other weeds by: shading suppression and competition for soil nutrients and moisture reducing vigour and seed head production; and creating physical barriers or buffer strips to stop/reduce the spread of weed seeds.

While it sounds ismple, ongoing herbicide application or cultivation control of the new Tussock seedlings will still be required until tree canopy closure at 3 to 8 years.

Indeed, farm forestry alone will probably not be an effective weed control option for many weed species particularly with arable fertile farm land.

A farm forestry and serrated tussock control field day was held at the end of April in the Bacchus Marsh Diggers Rest area. For more details on the day contact Liz Hamilton or Sue Harris from the Corangamite Farm Forestry Network (03) 52335533 or Graeme Anderson from NRE Geelong (03) 52264667.

______

On the shelf – new publications

Agroforestry and farm forestry in north east Victoria This book by Russell Washusen and Rowan Reid is designed as a manual for landowners interested in using agroforestry as a farm management tool to provide shelter for crops and stock, fire protection, diversification of income or simply for beautification. Th book costs $25 and is available from the North East Agroforestry Network on (03) 57611645.

Landcare Australia Yearbook Landcare Australia Limited have produced the first ever Landcare Yearbook. The book brings togetyher a broad range of contributors to give a picture of the current state of play in landcare across Australia. Call Landcare Australia on 1800 151105 for price and ordering information.

Tracks, scats and other traces: A field guide to Australian mammals Barbara Trigg has updated her excellent guide to working out what mammals are around without actually seeing them. This book would make a terrific present for any amateur naturalist and should be on every landcare groups bookshelf. Available from most bookstores for $29.95 and through Oxford University Press on (03) 96464200.

Regional Catchment Strategies booklets The recent release of Victoria’s Regional Catchment Strategies provides a good snapshot of our priorities for land and water resource management right across the State. Each region has produced a summary booklet which outlines the major problems and the actions needed to ‘make a difference.’ Copies of the booklets are available from your local Regional Catchment and Land Protection Board or NRE office.

______

Landcare on the Web Tess Goodwin, Landcare Consultant

A growing number of organisations are popping up on the Internet. Here are a few that have useful information for landcare groups. http://www.pi.sa.gov.au/landcare/natconf.htm For all you need to know about this year’s National Landcare Conference. Hosted by Primary Industries, South Australia, this years conference will be held in Adelaide in September 1997. This site allows you to register for the conference online, as well as providing all the information you need about speakers, tours, accommodation and timetables. http://webserver.dpie.gov.au/ PIENet-DPIE-Primary Industry and Energy Network Allows yourself plenty of time to explore this web site. It’s enormous! As well as housing the National Landcare Program, it covers many natural resource management activities from farm forestry to geoscience. There is information on the grants program, as well as information on publications, commonwealth government policy, and committees. It also offers links to other relevant sites. Natural Heritage Trust funding for community groups information can be found on: http://www.dpie.gov.au/agfor/landcare/prog/general/what—is.html http://www.vff.org.au/ The Victorian Farmers Federation homepage features their windmill logo spinning in the breeeze. Choose ‘Contacts’ from the home page menu and you will find the VFF Landcare Group. This provides contact details for all VFF personnel involved in Landcare. http://www.dce.vic.gov.au/ The Department of Natural Resources & Environment site. Click on groundwater Victoria and disocver the groundwater database, listing bore locations and reports. This site also highlights the beneficial use of groundwater. Other areas to choose from include the environment cadet program, geographic data Victoria, and Victoria’s geospatial information network. Email me on [email protected] if you have disocvered a good landcare web site. Issue 5

Victorian Landcare Magazine Issue 5, Spring 1997 ______

From the Editors We have been amazed by the terrific response to our recent reader survey. Over 1,400 readers completed the survey, many writing detailed comments. The results are very positive: most people enjoy reading the magazine, find it informative and well designed. The most popular stories are on new research findings, practical advice and farmer interviews. Over 80% of readers wanted the magazine to stay at its current frequency of four issues each year. Some readers were concerned at the costs of producing the ‘colour and quality’ of the magazine. We have aimed to produce the best possible magazine within our budget. The mix of colour and black and white was decided on after obtaining numerous quotes and samples. Advertising also helps to offset the magazines production costs. Many thanks to all of our readers who completed the survey. The information we have received is very valuable and we will use it to plan our future issues. The editors, Mal Brown, Paul Crock and Greg King. PS. We have just received news that Wyuna Landcare Group has won the Community Group Section in the Victorian Landcare Awards. Congratulations Wyuna, more on the Landcare Awards in the next issue. Caption: Greg King with Jack and Phyllis Valence from Tempy who were the winners of our reader survey competition. Jack and Phyllis are pictured at the recent Victorian Farmers Federation annual conference. Jack and Phyllis are life members of the VFF and have been involved in Landcare for many years. Farmers throughout the Mallee would be aware of their efforts in establishing the Nandalay Bunny Busters. ------South Gippsland puts on a show Tom and Sue Lougheridge, winners of the 1996 National Roundup Landcare Primary Producer Award and the Jeetho West Landcare Group hosted one of the biggest and most successful field days seen in Gippsland for many years. Organised by the South Gippsland Landcare Network, with support from the VFF, UDV and QBE Insurance, nearly 250 landcare people from as far away as Sale and Tallygaroopna saw how productivity and conservation could be combined in an intensive dairy operation. Bruce Standfield, the chair of the Landcare Network opened the morning session. Greig Barry, President of the Jeetho West Landcare Group introduced the speakers; Brian Scarsbrick from Landcare Australia, Tom and Sue Lougheridge, Rob Youl and Peter Notman, a well known pasture agronomist and Nuffield Scholar. Sue Lougheridge discussed the early days when they purchased the farm, and how trees were initially planted to shelter their stock. “Once we realised the benefits of our tree planting in countering erosion, we continued in order to stem soil losses from landslips and tunnel erosion.”

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Since 1982, the Lougheridges have planted in excess of 26,000 trees mainly in erosion prone areas, but also to protect their stock. In 1992, they undertook a whole farm planning exercise, and with the help of their son Chris and new wife Peta are in the process of implementing it. Tom spoke of the benefits of landcare to his farm business. “Extensive pasture renovation, with increased fertiliser usage, rotational grazing and fencing to land capability has not only made the farm safer, but has increased productivity by 82% over the last 15 years” “In 1982 we were milking 160 cows, producing 170-180kg butterfat and 140kg protein per cow. Now we milk 230 cows, and have increased butterfat to 220-225kg and protein to 175kg per cow. 15% of the property has been retired from grazing and planted with trees to stabilise the soil.” Tom and Sue highlighted Chris and Peta’s role in helping improve the property. “They are now becoming custodians of the land, and with Chris’ new innovative ideas the future of the farm looks secure.” Peter Notman spoke of his Nuffield Scholarship tour of South America looking into their dairy industry. His message for the day was that their pasture management and animal husbandry are not far behind our own, and with labour so cheap and technology not far away, the South Americans will prove to be worthy competitors in our world markets. Frank Bourke from QBE Insurance Leongatha Branch worked tirelessly over the BBQ to provide the field day goers with enough energy to tackle the Lougheridge’s hills in the afternoon farm walk. Tom Lougheridge and Angus Hume from the West Gippsland CMA and South Gippsland Landcare Network, led the walk, with Chris Lougheridge and Peter Notman fielding the questions relating to pasture management techniques, fertiliser rates and pasture improvement methods. Chris explained that while the trees assisted in controlling soil erosion, vigorous pasture growth over the whole farm played a more important role in minimising soil loss. “Sheet erosion is minimised if the pasture are managed properly in the rotational system” he said. Special thanks for the day must be extended to the Gippsland Landcare coordinators, David Ziebell, Martin Fuller and Scott Brain, and the Loch ladies who, as usual provided a lavish morning tea. For more information on the field day or the Lougheridges please contact Martin Fuller on (03) 5674 3516 or David Ziebell on (03) 5662 9212. Captions: The ringleaders of the day prepare for the onslaught. Scott Brain, DNRE Leongatha, Angus Hume, West Gippsland CMA, Martin Fuller, Bass LC Coordinator, Rob Youl and Bruce Standfield, Chair, SGLN. Tom Lougheridge and Angus Hume lead the charge of the landcare brigade through the highly productive pastures. ------In brief Royal Melbourne Show, 18-28th September Don’t miss the Department of Natural Resources and Environment’s display at the Royal Show this year. The theme is ‘everyone lives in a catchment.’ The display features a huge map of Victoria showing our forests, farms, National Parks and industries. The DNRE stand is on the ground floor of the Government Pavilion. There will also be some activities for kids.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Weedbuster Week Coming up in October, Weedbuster Week is a time set aside to raise awareness about weeds and the damage they do to our environment. Register now to promote your efforts in your local community. Your activity could be a field day, a weed control demonstration, weed clean-up at a local creek or park or any other weed control related activity. If you’re interested in being part of Weedbuster Week contact Glenn Simmons for a registration form. DNRE (03) 9412 4792 or fax (03) 9412 4388. NHT Update Nearly 2,000 project applications for Natural Heritage Trust funding were received by the State Assessment Panel. The State and Regional Assessment Panels have now completed their assessment and priority ranking of projects. Victoria’s submission is currently with the Ministers for Agriculture and Resources and Conservation and Land Management who will forward it to Canberra for consideration. The funding announcement should be known by early September. Successful applicants will be required to sign a financial support agreement before funds are made available. These agreements will be sent out by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, NHT’s co-ordinating agency for Victoria. Financial support agreements must be returned before funds are sent out. Once funding announcements have been made, anybody with queries about an application should contact their local NLP contact officer at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. ------View from the hill Mick Stevens is constantly reminded that ‘no man is an island.’ From a hill on top of his farm he can see what all his neighbours are doing, and how it is going to affect him. “My place gives me a unique view on catchment management. It shows me there are good things happening but they’re scattered. We really need to fill in the gaps, to get everyone involved,” he says. Mick admits that farmers are not all ready to make changes at the same time. “In 1990 I hadn’t planted a tree. In the garden maybe, but not on the farm,” he says. The only trees on Mick’s farm were old cypress’s planted by his father and now coming to the end of their lifespan. Since joining the Hopkins Moyne Land Management and Farm Tree Group Mick has planted around 20,000 trees on his farm. He started with tube stock and then got into direct seeding. Most recently he has been working on agroforestry and milling the timer he is growing. Mick says he tries to be a salesman for the group. His property is used as a demonstration farm and he is always ready to show his whole farm plan, beautifully framed in his own timber. Caption: Mick Stevens from the Hopkins Moyne Land Management and Farm Tree Group with his whole farm plan. ------Students and farmers put the Moyne River under the microscope

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Caption: Win Leslie, a farmer from Hawkesdale believes salinity monitoring of the Moyne River would not have been possible without the involvement of the local school. A curious group of people are meeting in Win Leslie’s lounge room. Win and her husband David are farmers, but still not locals after 22 years in Hawkesdale. Brenda Elliott is the Science laboratory Technician at Hawkesdale College. Mick Stevens is the treasurer of the Hopkins Moyne Land Management and Farm Tree Group and a zealous tree planter on his own property. Back in 1994 the Hopkins Moyne Land Management and Farm Tree Group decided to take action. Salinity was creeping across their farms and they were concerned about water quality in the Moyne River. But the group is small, they didn’t have the resources or the know how to conduct the major monitoring program they needed. They teamed up with the local school, Hawkesdale College for an ambitious monitoring program. Two years later they have detailed data collected from 20 sites along the Moyne River. When the Hopkins Moyne Land Management and Farm Tree Group first formed their main concern was tree planting. Win said when she came into the area 20 years ago you couldn’t see a tree. “Shelter was an enormous problem. I remember having to go out at night in the bad weather and wrap freshly shorn lambs in hay to keep them warm. Now we’ve planted countless trees and we are really seeing the benefit. Our stocking rate has improved and we’ve created a much better working environment.” Win and David are working on a integrated plan for their property which includes pasture renovation and drainage. Win Leslie says they first noticed salinity in the area in the early 1980’s. She thinks it has probably always been around to some degree. One group member has a paddock called ‘salt paddock’ from soldier settlement days. The group knew they needed to get more information but readily admit that without the schools help the monitoring program wouldn’t have been possible. The monitoring program came at the right time for the school. They were challenged by the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) to develop discovery learning and build links with the community. Brenda Elliott from the school believes there are benefits right across the curriculum. “The school had always been interested in landcare. We teach agriculture and horticulture and have been doing Saltwatch since 1989. Now our senior students are involved in Waterwatch too. They are testing local rivers for water quality indicators like salinity, nutrients, pH and turbidity. They are learning to recognise macroinvertebrates and understand what this means for the health of the river.” The school work was boosted with a Community Salinity Grant to purchase salinity meters and sink watertable watch bores in the grounds. Brenda says the colourful flags in the bores have helped to interest even the youngest primary students in local watertables. A report on the data collected so far has been prepared by the local office of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. It shows river salinity levels are strongly linked to rainfall. To determine trends of rising or falling salinity levels in the catchment will require long term monitoring. Fortunately the enthusiasm of the school and the group is high. The group would like to develop a catchment management plan for the area and have applied for funding for a facilitator. Win Leslie is confident that the group is on the right track. “First we need data so we can understand what’s happening, then the on-ground works will come. Ultimately we may not get rid of the salt. But at least we might understand it better and learn to live with it,” she says. ------

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

WEEDS FUNDING Minister for Conservation and Land Management Marie Tehan has announced grants funding totalling $1,553,531 as the next step in the campaign to fight weeds throughout rural Victoria. In announcing the funding, Mrs Tehan has specifically targeted Victoria’s rural sector where weeds cost the State over $360 million annually in lost production. 158 of the 276 applications received were granted under the Community Weed Control Scheme. 13 applications from Shire and City Councils received funding totalling $264,426 to assist rural landowners to deal with weeds. By recognising the problems of weeds in the rural sectors, the Government has given community groups the opportunity to attack 47 different weed species over a total area of 4,206,108 hectares and 85.5km of roadside and streamside work. NATIONAL WEEDS STRATEGY A National Weeds Strategy has been launched by Commonwealth Ministers Robert Hill and John Anderson. The Federal Government has allocated $24 million to deal with weeds of national significance. The State Government has allocated $12 million over the next four years solely to combat the Victorian weed problem. The National Weeds Strategy ties in with the State initiative Waging War on Weeds which aims to raise awareness of the roles and responsibilities of all landowners in targeting problem weeds while providing practical and financial assistance for organisations and groups committed to reducing the impact of weeds. ------Trial and error in whole farm planning Captions: View from the bridge: Bruce with son Angus. The heavy load bridge gives access to machinery on both sides of the creek. An afternoon at Manooka: Bruce with his three sons and a family friend. In the early 1990’s Glenormiston Agricultural College was running courses to train government staff in the new technique of whole farm planning. Bruce Donaldson, a farmer from Mortlake is telling this story. He smiles wryly. “They used my place as a practical exercise and the results were what you’d call interesting. They didn’t understand the scale of the map. They broke the property down into soil types creating little paddocks of five to 15 acres along the back boundary. Not exactly practical for getting water to, or moving sheep.” Bruce says he didn’t think about the whole farm plan back then. But when the rural recession hit he had time on his hands and no money, so he started to think and plan. With a group of neighbours he went on his own whole farm planning course, taking a lot of time to come up with a plan that was flexible before he started implementing it. Bruce began to understand that soil types might be more important than he had realised - allowing for the strategic use of fertilisers, better grazing management and water usage. He has aimed for a flexible plan based around rotational grazing, with subdivisions he can pull

lcno_5.doc Issue 5 out if they don’t work. He is implementing a system of laneways which is complicated by the farms long driveway and scattered sheds. Central to Bruce’s whole farm plan was the need to fence out his frontage onto Blind Creek. He received an LPIS Grant to fence 1.4km of frontage. It has given him more flexibility in grazing and keeps the cows and calves out of the creek in winter. But fencing out the creek also created an access problem. For the property to develop further he needed to link paddocks on each side of the creek. The solution was a heavy- load bridge, but with a cost of $7,000 the project seemed out of reach. He took on extra agistment to pay for the 8m concrete kit bridge that is now the pride of the farm. Bruce’s mother and business partner refer to the bridge as ‘the Westgate’. Bruce says that along with the bridge, electric fencing has brought huge changes to how he runs the property. “Electric fencing costs around half as much as traditional station fencing, and its not so permanent. If I make a mistake, or change my mind, I just move it. This area is highly fire prone so farmers have always spent a lot of money on insuring their fences in case they get burnt. With electric fences it doesn’t matter so much.” For the past five years Bruce has been president of the Blind Creek Landcare Group. there are 14 families in the group, mainly neighbours. One of the groups’ big concerns is salinity. Bruce remembers a trip to Mildura. He called in on a field day hoping to learn something about salinity from the ‘experts’. “They were talking about managing around 4,000 EC. When I told them I was dealing with 28,000 EC they said ‘go home, we can’t help you’. Much of our salinity is primary salting through the evaporation of wetlands.” The landcare groups has been supported by mining giant CRA to assist with a trial site on 200 hectares of saline swamp. The group has put down 27 shallow piezometers. CRA have sunk five deep piezometers to help increase understanding of local hydrology. Bruce is very positive about the association with CRA. “They couldn’t have been more helpful. We wanted an aerial electromagnetic survey to find out about the underlying geological formations, so CRA arranged to have a plane fly over our area. They have also sent a geologist out to the local school. The involvement of schools is very important to the group. Local students are involved in monitoring salinity and water quality through Saltwatch and Waterwatch. With three boys in primary school Bruce is experienced at talking farming with kids. In contrast to the group’s experience with CRA, Bruce is critical of government funding schemes. He says the timeframes are just too short. “You get a year to plan the project, do it, and evaluate it. We are dealing with pretty complex problems, it can be three to five years before you get results and sometimes even longer before you turn up any meaningful answers. It ends up being a vicious cycle. If you get a bad season the project slows down or maybe even changes course. You’re less likely to get funding in future years, although you probably need it even more.” Bruce admits his knowledge of land management has sky rocketed since the early days of whole farm planning. He has attended numerous field days and completed a Pro Graze course which has extended his understanding of pasture growth and animal nutrition. He believes that landcare has been a major stimulation for change. “Over time landcare itself is moving from being reactive to proactive - using scientific assessment to uncover problems before they get too serious,” he says.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

And he has started to reduce his paddock sizes. Not down to the five to 15 acres recommended by the whole farm plan experts, but to around 30 to 50 acres. Getting water to these paddocks is still one of his biggest problems. ------New Taxation Incentives for Landcare Landholders will now have the choice of claiming accelerated tax deductions for Landcare works or a tax rebate or credit. The new Landcare tax incentives were announced by the Minister for Primary Industries and Energy John Anderson in July. The tax rebate or credit will be set at a rate of 34 cents in the dollar for qualifying expenditure incurred from July 1 1997. Specific details on eligibility are yet to be announced, however the rebate/credit will be based on the present definition of Landcare works under sections 75B and 75D of the Income Tax Assessment Act. Mr Anderson said the tax incentives are aimed to help farmers on low incomes to establish and maintain on-farm Landcare works. ------FUTURE POSITIVE Major Report helps boost Landcare by Sally Gibson Captions: Some faces from the Moolort Landcare Group. (L to R) Jeff Mikkelsen, Alison Teese, Janet Barker, Graeme Canfield and Rob Sewell. Janet and Rob are involved in co- ordinating the group’s work at a local and DNRE level. This sort of assistance will increase in response to the ‘Caring for Landcare in Victoria’ report. A Landcare support person attached to each Catchment Management Authority. Continued support for individuals seeking Landcare funding. Your local government working alongside your local Landcare group. These are some of the key recommendations recently accepted by Government in a major report designed to consolidate the future of Landcare in Victoria. The report, ‘Caring for Landcare in Victoria’, has been prepared by the Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Council, the peak body advising government on the management of catchments in Victoria. The report is based on issues raised at Landcare forums and in consultation with Landcare groups and has been accepted by Deputy Premier and Minister for Agriculture and Resources, Mr Patrick McNamara and Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Mrs Marie Tehan. In accepting the report, Mrs Tehan said the Government’s strategic support of Landcare will become increasingly essential to its future as we move towards the end of the Decade of Landcare. Council Chairman, Mr Jeremy Gaylard, added that Landcare’s future viability is a critical link in the implementation of the Catchment Management Authorities’ (CMAs) Regional Catchment Strategies. Other key recommendations in the report included that:

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

• CMAs specify how they will support Landcare groups in their region and also, that the groups have input on CMAs’ plans, budgets, priority setting, and reporting; • projects be evaluated regionally; • CMAs ensure that there is adequate and effective integration of projects and programs relating to Landcare groups and networks; • CMAs work closely with local government and other regional bodies to ensure that the activities of bodies are consistent with Regional Catchment Strategies and do not compromise the work of regional Landcare; • CMAs liaise and negotiate with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to ensure that the skills of staff assigned to work with Landcare groups are matched appropriately to the needs of Landcare groups; • that a regional forum be held to help co-ordinate Landcare projects; • that the bureaucracy for Landcare groups be minimised by measures such as the early clarification of reporting responsibilities to reduce unnecessary workloads when projects are completed. Mrs Tehan has asked that the Council report back to her by June 1998 on the implementation of the recommendations. Copies of the report are available from the Catchment and Land Protection Council, 4/115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065 or by phoning (03) 9412 6508. ------A Shared Vision for River Conservation Captions: The lower Genoa River from 1,000 feet looking upstream to Genoa Township: eroded, stripped of vegetation and straightened in the severe floods of the 1970s. Closely planted cells of Poa ensiformis (Tussock Grass) after four months of growth. The planting is designed to give rapid bank protection after the removal of seed producing willow trees. The conservation and restoration of the natural river heritage of far East Gippsland is being assured, thanks to an innovative partnership between the river frontage farmers, private enterprise and a statutory authority. The far East Gippsland area is unique in Victoria, featuring the extensive reaches of the Bemm and Genoa rivers all of which flow into the Croajingalong National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. 95% of the catchment remains uncleared, but the cleared river reaches have suffered extensive degradation since settlement, including major erosion of farmland and threatening of downstream fauna and flora. The degraded reaches require appropriate, ongoing restorative management to prevent further degradation of a region with exceptional natural values of state and national significance. The ongoing river frontage restoration involves a partnership between landholders and the East Gippsland River Management Board (EGRMB). Until recently the EGRMB was funded solely by a local levy and government funding. In 1996 in the first sponsorship of its kind, Nicolaas van Roosendael of Plantwize Nursery and Australian Aquaflora offered their propagation facilities to germinate and grow the indigenous riparian species of East Gippsland.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

The sponsorship has provided the EGRMB with state of the art plant propagation and production services (to a value of $10,000), from seed collected locally by the EGRMB. The sponsorship complements the river restoration program of the EGRMB, who since 1990 have been employing stabilisation techniques and stock control to stop further erosion. With the advances in propagation technology introduced and the abilities to grow previously difficult species in large numbers, the EGRMB, in conjunction with Riparian Australia, can now re-establish desirable indigenous species at a faster rate than would be possible if relying solely on natural regeneration. The Cann River, which has suffered extensive degradation and been the focus of a sustained 30 years bank stabilisation program stands to benefit considerably from the new approaches in vegetation establishment made possible by the co-operative venture. It will be possible to establish large numbers of plants (of species such as Water Gum) which will survive in an environment very hostile to plant establishment and growth - with high flow rates and mobile sediments. This project demonstrates the value of co-operation and the advantage of pooling skills and resources to achieve positive results for both the rivers and the community. For more information contact Wendy Robinson, Secretary Far East Rivers Management Group on (03) 5158 0203. ------Wild dogs take the bait High country Landcare Feature by Paul Crock Caption: Bill Flannagan and George Sykes (formerly DNRE) lay baits in the forest. The aim of the wild dog program is to minimise livestock losses to primary producers and in the process help the native fauna. Wild dogs continue to cause concern for graziers in the East Gippsland high country, where for decades they have been killing sheep and lambs, causing serious income loss throughout the region. While the government provides ‘doggers’ to seek out and destroy wild dogs by snaring, baiting and shooting, the vastness of the public land in the high country of East Gippsland makes it impossible to control all the dogs. Fencing by landholders has been effective in reducing incursions of wild dogs, however not only is it a very expensive exercise for the farmers, the length of the public/private boundary makes the job extremely difficult. In 1992, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and landholders in the Gelantipy Wild Dog Group joined forces to tackle the problem with an integrated wild dog program. Since then groups at Bairnsdale, Swifts Creek, Buchan, Omeo, Deddick/Tubbut, Bendoc and Marlo have also become involved. The integrated program consists of ongoing snaring, shooting and baiting by DNRE ‘doggers’, joint DNRE/landholder poisoning programs on public and private land, boundary fencing incentives through the Land Protection Incentive Scheme (with the emphasis on electric fencing), and improved livestock management by landholders. The joint baiting program is widely supported in the community and brings together staff from all DNRE units and landholders.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Bill Flannagan, a landholder in the Upper Livingstone Valley (near Omeo) has been fighting wild dogs for years. “In 1994, the Department and the Dog Group joined forces and started a fox and wild dog baiting program which has had great results.” “Fresh meat baits are laid along tracks known to be frequented by wild dogs. Each bait is buried in a prepared site about 80cm across and mounded to about 15cm. The location is clearly marked and any activity at the site monitored by DNRE staff.” “Last year we laid 1000 baits on over 400km of roadsides and bush tracks of which 704 were taken. Lambing rates have since increased by nearly 20 percent”. Geoff Harman, DNRE’s Bairnsdale Land Protection Advisory Officer, believes that the integrated approach has greatly assisted in reducing dog numbers. “Nobody knows how many wild dogs there are out there, but from monitoring the number of baits taken and the number of dogs snared by the DNRE doggers, we believe we are making a significant impact. The information gathered also helps us determine which bait stations are less active. These will be deleted from the baiting program hopefully leading to a 25% reduction in the number of stations required. Geoff highlighted that the highest priority for requests for assistance from landholders is given to those farmers who are making an effort themselves through actions such as constructing and maintaining dog proof boundary fences, cooperating with their neighbours in carrying out preventative measures such as poisoning and implementing common-sense livestock management. “The inspection/advisory service is still provided to all landholders to advise them of the options available including incentives for dog fencing and options for reducing attacks on livestock, but ad hoc actions to attend attacks on properties where there is no evidence of commitment by the landholder will not take priority over the strategic control program.” Geoff and Bill look forward to continuing the wild dog program through the Good Neighbour Program in the future. For more information, please contact Geoff at the DNRE office in Bairnsdale on (03) 5152 0600. ------High country landcarers tackle gully erosion Captions: The gully on Neil Strobridge’s property before earthworks began in April. The edges of the gully were battered back and well compacted by the contractor. Group members looking over the finished project in July. Poor seasonal rainfall hampered pasture establishment, the snow on the ground shows how vulnerable projects in the region are to the elements. Members of the enthusiastic Omeo Landcare Group are spearheading the fight against land degradation in the Omeo region. Battling poor seasonal conditions, low commodity prices and the occasional snow fall this resilient bunch remain positive about their future. The president of the group, Simon Lawlor points to gully erosion as the highest priority for the group. “There are numerous washouts in the area, ranging from gullies like this one to some up to many hundreds of meters long.” “These gullies pose all sorts of problems including hampering stock access to paddocks, making weed and vermin control near impossible and contributing to the huge problem of turbidity in our rivers and streams.”

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

The group identified a need for increased public awareness of the problem, and a demonstration to highlight to landholders what could be done. Funding was sought and obtained from the National Landcare Program to repair a medium sized gully. “The group’s rationale for the demonstration on Neil Strobridge’s property was that the project was achievable in both cost and time, and could demonstrate how smaller gullies could be tackled before they became too big and too expensive to fix even with assistance from the department. It also aimed to show landholders that such sites could then incorporated back into the farm and not fenced and planted with trees’ Simon said. The project, completed in April this year involved extensive earthworks. Topsoil was removed and stockpiled, the banks of the gully battered off, and a contour bank constructed to keep the water off the repaired gully. The topsoil in the region is prone to dispersion, so to avoid surface sealing, gypsum was added before the area was sown down with oats and a deep rooted perennial pasture mix and well topdressed with fertiliser. Neil praised the efforts of the conscientious operator. “He ensured both the gully and contour banks were well compacted, factors which will be critical to the success of the earthworks.” “The oats were planted to get cover up quickly, while the deep rooted perennial pasture mix was used to get roots down deep and to provide protection against summer thunderstorms by tying the soil together. The while chooks and black chooks (cockatoos and crows) didn’t help get the pasture off to a great start” he said. Keren Layton, the Omeo-Swifts Creek Landcare Officer was diligent in taking before photographs for the group. “These photos help highlight the success of the project, and demonstrate to others what it was like as it is difficult now to picture the gully as it was - a picture tells a thousand words” she said. The project’s success has encouraged the group to continue their efforts. They have applied for National Heritage Trust funding to continue mapping and surveying gullies in the region and promote best practice management techniques to combat the problem. For more information about the project please contact Keren at Swifts Creek on (03) 5159 4344. ------Mortlake farmer creates an insect haven by Carri Tiffany Captions: The Eucalyptus Sawfly. The ‘spitfire grubs’ of the Sawfly are a common pest, defoliating eucalypts throughout southern Australia. This predatory bug inserts its feeding tube into the larvae of the Leaf Beetle. The caterpillars of the moth can defoliate woodlands leaving them looking brown as though scorched by fire. Xanthochryptus Wasps feed on the nectar glands of Acacia retinoides. Richard Weatherly with a crop of Leaf Beetle larvae. If insects could read Richard Weatherly would put a ‘welcome’ sign on his gate. Aside from a successful career as a wildlife artist, a business in direct seeding and a 4,000 acre Merino stud, Richard is an insect ‘pied piper’. He actively encourages insects to take up residence on his farm. Richard has created an extensive system of linked shelterbelts or ‘ecological nodes’ on his farm ‘Connewarran’, at Mortlake. He uses direct seeding to create the basis for the ecosystem, a variety of native plants. The plants are not all indigenous. Richard uses the

lcno_5.doc Issue 5 technique of analogue forestry: choosing species to mimic the ecology of an indigenous ecosystem while promoting sustainability. Once the plants are established Richard monitors insect life in the nodes, enthusiastically recording new species. Yet his trees, crops and pastures don’t suffer from significant insect pest attack. Richard says the secret is an understanding of symbiosis. “Symbiosis is the close and mutually beneficial association of organisms of different species. We know insects predate trees, but something also predates insects. We need to understand the relationships between all organisms in the ecosystem.” Insects are the most successful terrestrial animals living today. They have radiated successfully into all possible environments around the globe, except oceans. Insects are predated upon by a variety of birds, fish, reptiles, mammals and plants. But by far the biggest predator of insects are other insects. On a tour of Richard’s farm we stop to look at ecological nodes of different ages and search for insect treasures. Even on a windy day with spitting rain Richard turns up some good specimens. Eucalyptus Sawfly are a common pest in southern Australia, they can completely strip the leaves of individual trees. “The key to controlling Sawfly is having a nectar resource to attract the predatory wasps and tachinid (Bristle) flies that predate the Sawfly larvae,” Richard says. “Flowers are the most obvious nectar source, but they are not around all year. Insects also feed on nectar excreted from tiny glands in acacias.” According to Richard tree density and diversity can also help to reduce Sawfly attacks. “Sawfly are generally pests of open woodlots and ornamental trees, a greater variety of trees and shrubs reduces their impact. The only birds that feed on the spitfire grubs are Crimson Rosellas and Gang Gang Cockatoos, both birds restricted to forest or dense woodland habitats.” We move on to a six year old node where the trees are now eight to ten metres tall. They provide effective shelter from the strong wind for wildlife and stock. Richard is pleased to see a few plants have already died and toppled over. This will build up ant activity on the ground which will bring in more echidnas. Swamp Wallabies and koalas also frequent the nodes. Richard credits direct seeding with the vigour of the trees and diversity of insect and animal life. “With proper planning,” he says, “you can sow the basis of an ecosystem in a day. It only needs time to develop.” Richard discovers a brilliant metallic blue Thynnid wasp. He explains its place in the ecosystem. “Some Thynnid wasps control Curl Grubs. The female wasps are flightless and look like ants. They burrow down into the soil to lay their eggs in curl grubs. The process is dependant on nectar. The wasp needs fertilising after laying only one or two eggs so the male collects nectar to feed her during copulation. The male must feed on nectar every day but is only a short range flier, so a dense crop of nectar bearing trees or shrubs nearby is essential. “Controlling the Curl Grub has a double benefit. The grubs damage pastures then hatch into Scarab Beetles which defoliate trees. Scarab Beetles have their own parasites. Tachinid flies lay their eggs on the head and thorax of the beetles, on hatching they burrow into the beetles, quickly killing them.” We move to another node where Richard is pleased to see good numbers of small flies and wasps. He explains their importance in controlling the Gum Leaf Skeletoniser which can

lcno_5.doc Issue 5 seriously damage sapling eucalypts. Small flies and wasps parasitise the larvae of the skeletoniser. Their own larvae develop inside the moth larvae and eventually kill it. Richard says his work on insect biodiversity is all about balance. “My aim is to create a balanced ecosystem. Insects are an important part of that ecosystem. I may have to accept some insect predation on trees and crops but I should be able to avoid any serious ‘plague’ outbreaks through simple competition. If problem insects are being predated by other insects their populations will stay under control.” Richard’s knowledge of insects is impressive. He measures success by increasing diversity which means more and more insects he can’t identify. He admits it has been difficult to get information. There is no single text to help farmers identify insects and understand their role in the environment. Richard is grateful to the Museum of Victoria for information and access to their collection. There is a mixture of farmers’ practicality and artists’ attention to detail in Richard’s study of insects. He marvels aat their beauty: the stunning colours of a moth, the delicate little golden slippers of a beetle, its larvae like tiny gold nuggets. But he also views them as just another part of the farm. He is even pleased to see the return of Hopper Ants. They haven’t been seen for many years but he remembers his sister suffering from a bite as a child. ------Sustainable Agriculture - End or means? by Bob Edgar Captions: “Industry Commission staff would be more profitably employed if they were given a hoe and told to go out and help farmers control weeds.” Wally Shaw, President of the Victorian Farmers Federation on the Commonwealth inquiry into sustainable land management. ‘Country News’, February 1997. Farm leaders have become increasingly critical of the endless series of meetings, reports and discussion about sustainable agriculture that has followed the publication of “Our Common Future” in 1987. ‘Sustainability’ simply means that resources will be used in a way that will meet today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It’s surprising this idea is controversial when the transfer of a good farm to the next generation is a well established Australian tradition. Is sustainable agriculture an unrealistic goal or have the policy makers neglected some vital human aspects? The Environment “The pastoral industry in the remote regions of Australia has no future next century.... The meagre profits that are available are extracted at the expense of the environment.” Kenneth Davidson, ‘The Age’, July 1997. There is no doubt that the development of the agricultural and pastoral industries has come at significant cost to the environment. Native species have become extinct, soils eroded and waterways degraded. Grazing by sheep and cattle has damaged vegetation across large areas of the inland. Many Australian soils are poorly suited to traditional cropping methods. But in spite of sever economic pressures farmers have readily responded to the environmental challenge. For example, during a recent five year period more than 60% of cropping farmers in Northern Victoria adopted conservation techniques and surveys show over 40% of farmers are actively working in Landcare groups. Unfortunately marketing

lcno_5.doc Issue 5 arrangements for products provide no way of recouping the additional costs of environmental protection. Economics “The challenge in the next century is to sustain our natural resources, yet at the same time intensify agricultural practices to give increased production.” John Landy, ‘Australian Farm Journal’, February 1997. Recent ABARE figures indicate large variations in the profitability of Australian farms. Return on capital varied from 31.7% for large wheat farms to - 3.2% for small sheep/beef farms. The statistics show that large farms are tending to dominate. Already 72% of the gross value of production of broadacre farms comes from the largest one third of farms. At the other end of the scale small ‘lifestyle’ farms maintain viability through off farm income and by supplying niche markets. Soundly based farms located on suitable land will continue to produce into the future. They will use techniques that have no adverse effect on the land, other farms, waterways or natural systems. Consumers in Australia and overseas will demand an effective quality assurance process which certifies their produce as clean and green. The Local Community “No more,” he insists. “The line has been drawn. We’re not going to lie down and let them kill our town” John McConville, Donald resident in ‘The Weekend Australian’, June 1997. A farm can not exist in isolation from the local community. Family members need to buy goods and services, meet with friends, go to school, obtain medical care, find farm workers and, if necessary, have somewhere to work off the farm. The decline in the profitability of many farm industries combined with the withdrawal of government and commercial services means that small rural towns cannot meet the needs of the families they serve. Developments in computer science and communications will allow considerable professional and clerical employment well away from the cities. This provides the opportunity for more employment in rural communities. Stronger rural centres would provide more services to the farming community and give increased opportunities for off farm work. Strong Leadership required “In a lot of cases agriculture is not proactive. It is usually drawn into something because someone else has an agenda” Ellen Howard, ‘Australian Farm Journal’, July 1997. Agriculture has suffered long periods of low product prices and periodic drought. The decline of rural towns has added to feeling off depression. Farmers are frustrated as they have little or no control over the prices they receive for their products, the level of taxes and municipal rates or the cost of transport and communication. Strong leadership is required to develop a positive focus for rural Australians to help them meet the environmental, economic and social challenges that they face. Opportunities for rural development must be pursued with vigour. People will be hurt but it is preferable to have a clear positive direction for change than to be consumed by inaction. The removal from production of marginal cropping areas, saline irrigation districts and parts of the arid rangelands presents a major challenge given the inherent social, political and economic barriers. Families in these areas should have the chance to start their lives again

lcno_5.doc Issue 5 while they still have sufficient financial resources and emotional strength. Direct subsidies aimed at maintaining the status quo do not make social, political or economic sense. The management of large areas of former farmland provide the chance for developments in forestry, tourism, recreation and conservation. There are further opportunities in the selection and domestication of plant and animal species more suited to the Australian environment. We would benefit if resources were put into developing farming systems based on native plants and animals. The commercial potential of a number of pest species should be exploited. Is there a place for the rabbit? Can water weeds be used to remove nutrients from contaminated water? Targets must be realistic because information is not complete. We now know that some “good” farming practices advocated less than 30 years ago are not sustainable. Farmers can only act in light of the best available information. Some practices will prove to be more sustainable than others. Sustainable agriculture is something to move towards rather than a clearly defined end point. It can not be considered in isolation from broader community issues and the needs of the people involved. Bob Edgar worked in Landcare for many years. He is currently at Melbourne University looking at farmers perceptions of remnant native vegetation. Photographs by Carri Tiffany. ------Profile of a Weeds Champion by Glenn Simmons, DNRE

Jean Moir is a woman with numerous passions. A passion for the land, a passion for people and a passion for kelpies. But her greatest passion is for the eradication of weeds. She is a weed champion. Some would even call her the Leongatha Legend. Since 1988 when the Department of Conservation allocated funding to fix the ragwort problem in Gippsland, Jean’s been on the warpath. With the help of such luminaries as Bob Edgar, Jean set up the Berry’s Creek Landcare group, the first of five in the area. And the work has been quite remarkable. Following nine years of hard work the group is left with 8000 hectares of clean land. Jean Moir and husband Bill have been married for 31 years and as Bill’s a third generation farmer they’ve seen a lot of ups and downs on the land. They work over 300 hectares of clean land and run 50/50 sheep and cattle. Bill even remembers back to the Depression when 97 people were working in Mirboo North hand-pulling ragwort. How times have changed. These days the Landcare group has 87 members and is not likely to grow any larger. But they do the work of many more, and much of that can be attested to the work ethic of Jean. “It’s all about pulling the community together, recognising ownership of the problem and working together to solve the problem,” Jean says. “Not long ago we had a couple from Melbourne who were going through some difficult times physically. They had about 25 hectares full of ragwort but were incapable of doing the work. So 17 of us got together and cleaned the place up and it’s been weed-free ever since.” “We also keep the parks and crown lands clean too. It’s just something we like to do.” Jean’s battle with ragwort has raged for years. There’s a glint in her eye when she gets serious on the subject. “Ragwort was the first seed to germinate after the bombing of

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

London during WWII,” she says. “It can lay dormant for so long and then just pop up. But ragwort isn’t our only problem. Each region has different problems which must be addressed. “My biggest concern at the moment is the planting out of the riverbanks. If they are not looked after it will be an environmental disaster for future generations.” All land must be managed, whether it’s riverfront, next to railway lines, roadsides - the lot, it all must be managed. “Blackberry causes enormous damage. Apart from soil erosion on riverbanks it’s a major hiding spot and food supply for vermin. We’ve got to get stuck into it now.” But at 54-years- old, fixing up the riverbanks is a tedious, tiring and time-consuming process. And she does have a farm to run. “Pests are not as great a problem as they used to be. We don’t get many rabbits out here, but the foxes still take about 10 per cent of the lambs.” Although the Landcare group doesn’t regularly meet any more, any time something needs doing the group comes together. “We started with 65 in the group in 1988, then with sub-division the numbers swelled to 87 where it has remained,” she says. “But the population decline since the SEC slashed staff at Latrobe Valley has had an enormous effect on the hobby farmers. “In about three years we lost masses of people from the area, Jean’s children Fleur and Stuart have also moved on. It’s hard, but we still do the best we can. We still visit every new resident in the district and explain the area to them. We encourage people to work 12 months of the year on ragwort. Otherwise it can get out of hand.” Jean says full-time farmers know their weeds. Hobby farmers, on the other hand, have a mixed reputation when it comes to caring for the land. But she finds this fringe group an enthusiastic crew. “They are an easy lot to motivate. I find the hobby farmers are actually the best. “City people just don’t understand the ragwort problem. But once they’re educated and gain an understanding of the requirements needed to keep a property weed-free, they are quite excellent, especially as far as farmers are concerned. “The hardest thing to get some people to understand is that you need chemicals to keep the land weed-free.” If you don’t use chemicals then it forces your neighbour to use chemicals. It’s a vicious cycle. I can show you how a three-year properly controlled program can bring the use of chemicals down to nearly zero. To this equation hobby farmers can relate.” The region is conducive to weed problems because the land is quite arable and the rainfall is 40 inches plus. But one problem is that the country is so steep in parts it’s difficult to gain access to chemically control the weeds. “It’s so steep you can’t put a boom on the tractor so it must be hand work only,” say Jean. “This is why I feel the answer is in biocontrol. It’s an avenue we must pursue vigorously.” All of this augurs well with Government’s War Against Weeds Initiative. The Government is spending $12 million over the next four years to try to fix the rural weed problem - a problem which costs Victoria nearly $400 million a year. These days Jean’s on a new kick. She breeds and trials kelpies. Has been for three years. “I love them. They work hard for me and give me immense satisfaction,” she says. “They’re not quite as smart as border collies, but there is just something about them ... “The other week we had a group from the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture out there to see the dogs work. They thought they were great.”

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Jean has also been doing some trialling. “Well,” says Jean, “we had a little win a while ago but we’re not very advanced yet. We’re still working on it.” If the ease in which the dogs round up the flock is any indication, the big wins are not far away. And if Jean puts her mind to it in the same fashion she attacked the weed problem in the area, then there’s going to be a few breeders and triallists out there who should rightly feel a little nervous about the future. Captions: Leongatha: 8,000 weed free hectares. On the road to Jean Moir’s farm from Leongatha. Jean Moir with her kelpies. (L to R) Ross Newton, Jean Moir and Les Hutchison from the Berry’s Creek Landcare Group. ------Victoria’s New Catchment Management Authorities Captions: Chairpersons of the new CMA’s with Minister Tehan and Michael Taylor. Drew English (North Central), Gerald Leach (Mallee), Bob Carraill (Corangamite), Lance Netherway (Wimmera), Ken Gaudion (North East), Minister Tehan, David Koch (Glenelg), Michael Taylor (Secretary DNRE), Duncan Malcolm (East Gippsland), Greg Pullen (West Gippsland), John Dainton (Goulburn Broken) The Honourable Patrick McNamara, Deputy Premier and Minister for Agriculture and Resources welcomed new CMA members on their appointment. Minister for Conservation and Land Management Marie Tehan announcing Victoria’s new Catchment Management Authorities. The announcement of Victoria’s new Catchment Management Authorities heralds a new era in catchment management in Victoria. The nine Catchment Management Authorities (CMA’s) will implement Regional Catchment Strategies in each of the existing rural Catchment and Land Protection regions. For the first time, CMA’s will bring together the efforts of community service delivery and advisory groups, resulting in a whole of catchment approach. CMA’s will combine the roles of existing: Catchment and Land Protection Boards River management authorities Salinity implementation groups Water quality groups Sustainable regional development committees. Other roles of the new CMA’s will include identifying priority activities and work programs under the regional Catchment Strategies, providing advice to the State and Federal governments on resourcing priorities and negotiating with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment on regional service delivery. CMA’s and their implementation committees provide a clearer focus for regional decision making and strengthen links with the landcare movement. Board members have between them experience and knowledge of primary industry, land protection, water resource management, waterway and floodplain management, environmental conservation, local government, food industry and business/financial management. The Chairpersons are appointed for 3 years and other members for two year terms.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

North East Catchment Management Authority Ken Gaudion Boweya Terry Hillman Lavington Lindsay Jarvis Kergunyah Mac Paton Tallangatta Simon Penfold Myrtleford Christine Prendergast Bright David Sexton Albury Noelene WallaceWodonga Ken Whan Taminick Vision: “Ensuring sustainable natural resource management whilst increasing productivity and community viability for the benefit of the North East Region and the downstream community”. Phone: 060 556 124 Fax: 060 556 119 Glenelg Catchment Management Authority David KochColeraine Brian Learmonth Coleraine Michael Murphy Mortlake Lynn Murrell Portland Ian Ross Telangutuk East Basil Ryan Grasmere Bill Sharp Branxolme Richard Walter Hamilton Peter Dark Mirranatwa Vision: “The Vision is one of a healthy and sustainable relationship between the natural environment of the Glenelg Region and the community’s use of land and water resources.” Executive Officer Steering Committee: Colin Dunkley Phone: 03 5572 3033 Fax: 03 5572 5215 Mallee Catchment Management Authority Gerald Leach Walpeup Dorothy Brown Underbool Rodney Hayden Piangil Adrian Kidd Mildura Barrie MacMillan Mildura Steve Smith Merbein Richard Wells Merbein Reginald Wilkinson Yarrara Stan Pickering Merbein Vision: “A healthy and productive region in which natural resources are managed to meet the community’s needs and expectations both for now and for the future”. Executive Officer Steering Committee: Jim Sisson Phone 03 5022 3040 Fax: 03 5022 3061 East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Duncan Malcolm Boisdale Peter Allard Wamgarabell Marlene Battista Lakes Entrance Shaun Beasley Stratford Colin Murray Bairnsdale Geoff Russell Nicholson Chris Shearer Paynesville Geoffrey Robertson Bairnsdale Norman Wilkinson Dargo Vision: “Balanced urban and rural development that minimises the impacts of population pressures on the natural environment. Balanced and sustainable use of East Gippsland’s natural resources for a prosperous community. Enhanced water quality and flora and fauna values through sound land and water management”. Executive Officer Steering Committee: Chris Barry Phone: 03 5153 0444 Fax: 03 5153 0458 Corangamite Catchment Management Authority Robert Carraill Newtown Claire Barber Shelford Andrew Boyle Moriac David Fisken Ballarat Kevin Knight Linton John McDonald Wheelers Hill Robert Missen Beeac Harry Peeters Batesford Cliff Tann Kawarren Vision: “The Corangamite community managing land and water resources based on an understanding of and a commitment to sustainable use, conservation and rehabilitation of those resources.” Executive Officer Steering Committee: Don Forsyth Phone: 03 5233 5541 Fax: 03 5231 3823 West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority Greg Pullen Warragul Trevor Andrews Morwell Barbara Fulton Maffra Angus Hume Leongatha Kem Lamb Heyfield Gerard McCrae Middle Tarwin John O’Brien Cowwarr Patrick O’Shaughnessy Croydon Doug Treasure Stratford Vision: “To achieve a sustainable balance between the human need to utilise the natural resources of the region and the responsibility to ensure that these natural resources remain available for future generations”. Executive Officer Steering Committee: John Slayford Phone: 03 5174 2708 Fax: 03 5174 3944

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Wimmera Catchment Management Authority Lance Netherway Horsham Joan Bennett Nhill Joanne Bourke Rupanyup Lyle Driscoll Stawell Ross Haby Horsham Barry Hall Edenhope Colin Hall Stawell Jim Kilpatrick Great Western Ken Sleep Jeparit Vision: “In the Wimmera Regional, water and land will be nurtured, native flora and fauna will flourish, people will be happy to live, work and visit and agriculture and other industries will prosper”. Executive Officer Steering Committee: John Young Phone: 03 5382 1544 Fax: 03 5382 6076 Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority John Dainton Mooroopna Hew Davies Yea Craig Madden Avenal Athol McDonald Girgarre Dianne McPherson Orrvale Tom Perry Tatura Peter Ryan Dookie College John Gray Toolamba Ailsa Fox Merton Vision: “Protect and enhance the catchment’s land and water resources to improve the region’s social well being, environmental quality and productive capacity in a sustainable manner”. Executive Officer Steering Committee: Bill O’Kane Phone: 03 5822 2288 Fax: 03 5831 6254 North Central Catchment Management Authority John Brooke Pyramid Hill David Clark Waubra Ted Gretgrix Huntly Goff Letts via Stawell Terry Simpson St Arnaud Frank Smith Swan Hill Mostyn Thompson Woodend Gordon Weller Tennyson Drew English Kerang Vision: “An informed and responsible community using integrated and sustainable natural resource management to enhance the environment, land productivity and economic and social well- being of the North Central region”. Executive Officer Steering Committee: Graham Barrow Phone: 03 5444 6750 Fax: 03 5444 6721

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

------News from the Penshurst Landcare Association by Glenys Scholfield Captions: Danny Reddan working on the Stream Health Project. Lucas Cappicciano with Lloyd Mirtschin (L) from the Landcare Group discussing the Web of Green Project. What have Landcare group members and University students got in common? In the case of the Penshurst Landcare Association, and two students from the University of Ballarat’s Centre for Environmental Management, it is a vital interest in developing strategies for sustainable land management in the Penshurst area. The Penshurst Landcare Association was formed in 1995 and is made up of five landcare groups who came together to raise awareness and promote the adoption of sustainable land management practices in the Penshurst area. The Association’s major project, Web of Green, is a district corridor strategy. Web of Green will, over time, cover this area in a web-like network of indigenous plantations. This will encourage wildlife, especially birds; provide shelter on these windswept Western District plains and most importantly, use more water in the higher reaches of the catchments and hopefully prevent rising ground water further down the catchment. But the interests of the Association have not stopped there. It was soon apparent when farmers came together at meetings that a number of land management issues were concerning them. “I’m not too sure about higher inputs for higher profitability, what about high nutrient levels in streams?” “Yeah, but we don’t have those sort of problems in this area, ....do we?” “Well, what do these salinity readings mean anyhow? Have we got a problem in this area?” The need for management strategies and working models was also brought up. “Wouldn’t we be better to put our Web of Green plans on one of those GIS computer maps?” “But that’ll take ages to do and where do we get a program?” Towards the end of 1996 several projects were offered to the Centre for Environmental Management for senior students to consider. We believed that if students were doing ‘real’ projects and our area was being mapped, benchmarks established for future planning and strategies being developed, it would be a win for both parties. Lucas Cappicciano and Danny Reddan have taken up the challenge to carry out a district corridor strategy and a stream health project for the group and do some very real projects for the final year of their science degree. They have met with the management committee of the group and clarified the needs of their client. The students will send a progress report to each monthly meeting. It will be necessary for the students to consult with landholders from time to time. This is an excellent educational opportunity for the students and a good example of a mutually beneficial partnership between two community groups - farmers and students. ------

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Graham Hunter, new CEO of GAV by Jim Robinson - Greening Australia Victoria Caption: G.A.V. assists landholders in strategic revegetation. Sugar Gums (Eucalyptus cladocaylx) and Tasmanian Blue Gums (Eucalyptus globulus) 9 months after planting near Winchelsea. Graham Hunter started as GAV’s new Chief Executive Officer in mid May this year. He brings a wealth of experience in landcare management, having been a director in catchment management and sustainable agriculture in the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, a former director of the Environment Protection Authority and manager of the Government’s Salinity Bureau. He has also been a member of a number of advisory bodies including the National Soil Conservation Advisory Committee and has worked in environmental management in England, France and the USA. Graham noted that since its inception, GAV, through its regional facilitator network and training programs has assisted and supported thousands of landcare projects working with landholders and landcare groups but also state and local government agency staff, school groups and service clubs. “Projects have included strategic revegetation of farmland and roadsides, management of remnant vegetation, field days and farm walks, farm forestry advice, seed collection and seedbank management, direct seeding and native grasslands management,” said Graham. “This reflects the massive interest by the Landcare movement in the many roles of native vegetation in sustainable agriculture, in the long term productivity of our land and water resources, in maintaining biodiversity and rural communities and landscapes. These all flag the increasing need for organisations such as Greening Australia.” “We aim to build on the experience and expertise of our existing facilitator network in the regions to provide greater support for the Landcare movement. This will include an emphasis on monitoring and evaluation to help us to continually improve our services,” Graham added. “We shall work closely with the Catchment Management Authorities in all regions of Victoria to help implement the regional catchment strategies, and aim to provide further opportunities for our sponsors and to work closely with our many members to enhance the value of the organisation,” he concluded. Welcome aboard, Graham! ------Tati Tati Nature Reserve to become ecotourism site Thousands of people are expected to flock to Manangatang if the local Landcare Group has its way. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Landcare Group have funded the construction of a vermin proof fence around the 400 acre site at Tati Tati. The Green Corps will be removing the old fence. “Once the fence is up we want to establish a pathway with labelled native species so people can experience the Mallee and identify many of its plants. We intend to erect large information boards where visitors can read about the history of Tati Tati, landcare issues and about the Mallee and its pioneers,” Manangatang Group President Bill Sutton, said. DNRE Regional Co-ordinator Steve Erlandsen is a strong supporter of the project and has assisted in obtaining the initial funding grant. “I believe Tati Tati can become a bench mark

lcno_5.doc Issue 5 in terms of ecotourism and landcare and give visitors a greater understanding of the Mallee,” he said. This is just one of the projects on the go at Manangatang. The Landcare Group is also involved in rabbit control programs, a major tree planting, project, biological controls and cropping trials. The groups’ focus is on communications, letting members know what’s on offer in landcare. We have had a great response to rebates offered on ammunition, larvicide, trees and Foxoff which are all available from our new office. Bill Sutton went on to say that streamlined meetings, newsletters and strong links with the local media are all helping to get the landcare message out to landholders and townspeople. ------National Landcare Conference Study Tour Ninety one applications were received for a study tour to take in the National Landcare Conference in September, Project Platypus in the Wimmera, Landcare Projects at Kaniva and Horsham. Forty one people have been chosen to represent nine CMA regions at the conference. Funding has been supplied by the National Landcare Program to increase community participation in the conference. A report on the tour will be featured in a future issue of Victorian Landcare Magazine. ------WHEN A BLOOM IS UGLY - water quality in the Glenelg catchment Caption: Nicole Davidson tests water at Lake Hamilton. In 1994 the lake suffered an outbreak of blue green algae. The people of Hamilton shudder when they remember the summers of 1994/95 and 1996/97. Lake Hamilton, the town’s popular swimming, rowing, skiing and picnic spot developed into a foul smelling, toxic soup. It was an outbreak of blue green algae and it had a big impact on the town. Lake Hamilton is a man made lake on the Grange Burn River which flows through Hamilton. Blue green algae live in the water column, they move up to use light and down to feed on nutrients. The algae only become a problem when nutrient levels are excessively high causing an algal outbreak or ‘bloom.’ The algae uses all of the oxygen in the water, killing fish and leaving them floating on the surface. As the algae multiplies if forms a foul smelling green scum. Nicole Davidson, Nutrient Management Officer at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment in Hamilton explains that blue green algae not only looks disgusting but is also dangerous. “Blue green algae releases three types of toxins; hepatotoxins affect the liver, neurotoxins affect the nervous system and endotoxins cause gastroenteritis and skin rashes. People are most commonly affected by endotoxins. They may have skin contact with the algae, go away and get sick. Often people don’t link the sickness or skin complaints with exposure to the algae.” Nicole says that even after the algae dies it can remain toxic for weeks or months. Algal blooms aren’t new. A bloom on Lake Alexandrina in South Australia in the 1870’s caused large numbers of stock deaths. Studies in other parts of the world have found healthy spores in ancient lake sediments. And there are reports of blooms in Roman times.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

The bloom at Lake Hamilton caused considerable anxiety in the community. Both farmers and townspeople were quick to blame each other for contributing excessive nutrients into waterways. Nicole says that the nutrients come from more than one source. “It’s more complex than just blaming agricultural run-off. Nutrients get into the watercycle from many different places, whether it is agriculture, industry or stormwater from town drains.” To avoid further blooms a lot of information has been collected about water quality in the catchment. In 1995 Waterwatch was introduced to local schools. Waterwatch involves students in monitoring local rivers and creeks for indicators like turbidity, salinity pH, nutrients and the presence of macroinvertebrates. The program has been immensely popular, every school in the Glenelg catchment has been involved at some time or another. Baimbridge College is a good example of local commitment to Waterwatch. The school is currently monitoring 18 sites across the catchment, focussing on the Glenelg and Wannon Rivers and their bigger tributaries. The monitoring is done at VCE level and all of the schools’ year nine students. On the Wannon River students will be monitoring the habitat of the rare pygmy perch. Nicole says after schools have been involved in monitoring they want to see action. She is working on an innovative stormwater program called ‘drains to the Grange’. Students will test their creativity by helping to educate the rest of the community about stormwater. They will stencil colourful and catchy slogans on stormwater drain covers in Hamilton showing residents where the water from that drain ends-up. Nicole says people need to understand what happens to water when it runs off their street or paddocks. “In the Glenelg catchment all water ultimately flows down the Glenelg River and out through the Lower Glenelg National Park,” she explains. “The Glenelg is a pretty special river, it has been declared a Victorian Heritage River. We have a responsibility to protect its tourism, fishing and heritage values from any threats.” Nicole is working on a nutrient management strategy that will document detailed actions to help avoid further blue green algae blooms and improve water quality in the area. ------Remnant bush gets a fence and a future at Hotspur Caption: Midge Gough is working to protect remnant native vegetation at Hotspur in Western Victoria. Midge and Jim Gough and their son Philip are helping to save the bush on their farm ‘Coora’ at Hotspur. The property is bordered by bush which extends almost through to South Australia. Coora is graced with steep bush, big old blackwoods and some rare and beautiful orchids. Midge, Jim and Philip’s efforts to protect remnant native vegetation have been boosted with a Save the Bush grant. They will fence off 85 hectares of natural bushland to encourage the growth of many native species, including rare orchids and small understorey plants. Jim Gough, a keen naturalist says he has seen the damage that sheep and cattle can do to native bush. “Keeping them out is essential,” he said. Jim has identified at least 18 different species of orchids on the block. Midge, Jim and Philip will also complete fencing along Wild Dog Creek to allow regeneration and create a corridor from the Crawford River Regional Park into previously fenced areas.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Midge says the creek has suffered from poor water quality, bank erosion and continual trampling from stock. “The fencing will protect native fish, crustaceans and wetland plant communities,” she said. Their work on the Wild Dog Creek was motivated by what Midge describes as “the stunning regeneration,” they saw in an area fenced three years previously. Midge and Jim say that fencing out remnant bush benefits animals as well as plants. Midge reports seeing koalas, antechinus, dunnarts and lots of snakes. “The water birds on the marshy wetlands around the Smokey River are very impressive, we see ducks, swans, rails, greenshanks, bitterns, pelicans and many other species,” she said. The Save the Bush Grant application was prepared by the Smokey River Land Management Group and identified under the Smokey River Catchment Plan. Justin Cook, Tree Victoria Officer at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment in Hamilton says there are two types of projects under Save the Bush; planning and on- ground works. “Works generally means fencing off remnant native vegetation to increase its conservation value. We have seen very few of these projects so it is great the Smokey River Group is taking the initiative,” he said. Midge and Jim Gough believe that their work on saving remnant native vegetation will have long term value for tourism. And they have no doubt that the work will continue in the future. Midge says that their son, Philip, has been the main motivator behind the project. ------RURAL WOMEN’S NETWORK The Rural Women’s Network (RWN) was established in 1986 in recognition of the key role of women in sustaining and maintaining families, farms, businesses and communities. The RWN links women’s groups and individual women, enabling women in rural Victoria to have a more active and influential role in public life, and in government decision-making which affects rural communities. The RWN represents more than 16,000 women throughout rural Victoria. Women in Landcare In 1996 the Rural Women’s Network, together with the Office of Rural Affairs and the Institute for Sustainable Irrigated Agriculture (DNRE) in Tatura obtained NLP funding to conduct research into the participation of women in Landcare. The report of the project ‘More Than A Question Of Numbers - Working With Women And People From Non-English Speaking Backgrounds Towards Total Catchment Participation’ was launched in March 1997. Get networked If you would like to get involved in the RWN send your name and address to the address below and we will send you our free publication NETWORK three times each year. NETWORK is our most visible and vital link for rural women. Each NETWORK encourages contributions from rural women all over the state, from a range of backgrounds and experiences. Copies of the commemorative tenth anniversary issue of Network are now available. Contact: Emily Phillips and Karen Pryosusilo Rural Women’s Network 5/250 Victoria Pde East Melbourne 3002

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Tel: (03) 9412 4001 Fax: (03) 9412 4442 E-mail: [email protected] ------ON THE SHELF - New Publications A HAVEN FROM STORM AND DROUGHT- THE ROLE OF TREES IN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE. This is the third workbook in Greening Australia’s highly regarded series on trees in sustainable agriculture. Steve Burke and Allan Wilson are the capable guest editors with case studies by Geoff Wilson. The workbook is split into two parts; shelter and fodder. The shelter section covers the science of how shelterbelts work through to choice of species and design. There are four excellent case studies that put a human face to the information. The fodder section is more scientific but still with a practical bent. The section on principal fodder shrubs in use gives a valuable breakdown of the quality, uses and economic returns of the mainstay fodder species. All in all an excellent and timely publication. Call Greening Australia on (06) 281 8585 for information on retail outlets. The workbook sells for $12.00. AQUATIC LIFE IN FRESHWATER PONDS As the aquaculture industry looks to more sustainable production methods it is increasingly important to understand what happens in aquatic ecosystems. This new book is an excellent guide for farmers, students and researchers. It includes identification keys to common taxa with detailed illustrations and colour photographs. There is an extensive checklist of aquatic organisms known to occur in freshwater ponds and farm dams throughout south eastern Australia. Copies of the book are available from the Murray Darling Basin Freshwater Research Centre, PO Box 921, Albury, NSW. 2460 for $30.00 plus $6.00 postage. THE REHABILITATION, CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF REMNANT VEGETATION Large areas of the Australian landscape, including much of our most productive land, have been cleared of their natural vegetation. There is growing evidence that many parts of our rural landscape will be devoid of native bush if we do not learn better management of these remnants. This occasional paper (11/96) outlines a program jointly funded by LWRRDC and the Biodiversity Group of Environment Australia to devise improved methods of bushland management. The program aims to assist government agencies, community groups and landholders to apply improved knowledge and understanding gained from research to remnant conservation. Available from LWRRDC on (06) 257 3379 for $10.00. ------Landcare on the Web by Tess Goodwin, Landcare Consultant

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Blue still seems to be the main colour of Victorian skies. As drought appears to be on the horizon, there are some unique advantages of using the Internet to access the latest forecasts and weather predictions. Today’s Weather http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/ahead/ METNET is the home page of the Bureau of Meteorology. Featuring the latest forecasts, as well as meteorological and coastal observations, the daily weather forecasts are broken down into regional districts within Victoria and Australia. This page gives rainfall outlooks, El Nino information and offers links to other relevant sites. For a look at the Bureau of Meteorology’s Drought Index, go to http://amdisa.ho.bom.gov.au/climate/drought/drought.shtml This site offers an up to date drought statement and also a rainfall deficiency map. http://www.pmel.noaa.gov/toga-tao/el-nino/home.html We all know that the El Nino effect is responsible for dry weather patterns in southern Australia. But what is El Nino? This page explains the El Nino effect and illustrates the difference between normal and El Nino conditions using diagrams, satellite imagery, forecasts and sea level data. http://www.brs.gov.au/brs/apnrb/drought/drought.html For the rundown on Australia’s National Drought Policy, which was agreed to by Commonwealth, State and Territory ministers in 1992, visit the Bureau of Resource Science’s drought page. The site also offers links to many other contacts, including the Climatic Information Highway, the USA National Drought Monitoring Centre, and the Bureau of Meteorology. ftp://ftp.jcu.edu.au/JCUMetSat/aush-last.gif What weather check would be complete without a peek at the daily Australian Weather Satellite Image? My email address is [email protected] if you have discovered any unusual Landcare sites on the World Wide Web. ------Rio Tinto supports community water quality monitoring The farming community in the central Hopkins River catchment is benefiting from the studies of school students. Pupils at Mortlake College are monitoring water quality and providing data to the Central Hopkins Land Protection Association. “They are providing biological and chemical yardsticks to monitor the level of degradation of stream quality in the district” says the College’s Coordinator of Geography, Anthea Good. The programme is supported by Rio Tinto, formerly CRA, a mining company that is actively involved with communities and the environment. Rio Tinto Exploration has donated top level technical equipment including a photometer, (a machine to measure water quality), to assist the school in the project. Speaking at the presentation of the equipment to the College Mr David Morgan, Rio Tinto Exploration’s Manager of External Affairs, said “We are always pleased to form partnerships with communities where we are exploring. The quality of the work being done by the College students is of a very high standard and will benefit the local farming community.” So significant is the community benefit of Mortlake College’s work that it has attracted interest from overseas. Two schools from America one from South Africa and a European school are to join the programme exchanging data with Mortlake College via the Internet.

lcno_5.doc Issue 5

Speaking from Tucson, Arizona, Ruth Russell, Vice-Chair of the great American conservation group Audubon Society said, “This is tremendously exciting. To have school kids in the United States swapping environmental information between five schools on four continents is encouraging for the future. Let’s hope the programme expands!” For further information contact: Richard Weatherly, Chairman Central Hopkins Land Protection Association (03) 5599 7276.

lcno_5.doc victorian andcareandcare II ss ss uu ee 66 SS uu mm mm ee rr LL 11 99 99 77

Burgoigee, Hodgson & Horseshoe Creek Landcare Groups

When the skies are Greg Rankin alive with cockies on grains

Wishing our readers a merry Christmas and prosperous NEW YEAR

CONTENTS

Business Management Editorial Wade Hughes Wally Shaw Page 4 Peter Sutherland A year of Powlett Activities Editorial Group Paul Crock (03) 9207 5555 Page 7 Mal Brown (03) 9412 4382 Sally Gibson (03) 9412 6508 Pasture lift in Woady Yaloak Editorial Consultant Tiffany & Associates (03) 9894 2169 Page 9 When the skies are alive with cockies Advertising Manager Paul Crock Page 13 Phone (03) 9207 5562, Fax (03) 9207 5500

Design The Cuppers: Our top Bouquet Productions Pty. Ltd. Phone (03) 9376 0911, Fax (03) 9376 0922 primary producers Page 15 Printing Henry Thacker Printing Greg Rankin on grains Breakwater, Geelong. Phone (03) 5248 3333, Fax (03) 5248 7222 Page 20

Cover Photograph Sunflowers at Kallista by Andrew Chapman Weed feature Page 22 Contributions and mailing list enquiries Scouts plant 90,000 trees Victorian Farmers Federation Landcare Section, Page 24 Level 6 24-28 Collins Street, Melbourne 3000 ‘Victorian Landcare’ Magazine is a joint publication of the Victorian Farmers’ Phone (03) 9207 5555 Fax (03) 9207 5500 Federation, Alcoa of Australia Limited and the Department of Natural Victorian Landcare is published for the Victorian Landcare Resources and Environment, with the support of the Catchment and Land Community by the Victorian Farmers Federation, 24-28 Protection Council and Greening Australia Victoria. Collins Street, Melbourne 3000. Articles may be reprinted provided Victorian Landcare is acknowledged. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of statements in Victorian Landcare the Victorian Farmers Federation, it’s partners, agents, servants and contractors disclaim all responsibility for the statements quoted here in.

ISSN: 1327 5496

Victorian Landcare Page 3 From the Editors Winners ! Passing of Contributions flowing in Passing of By Paul Crock In its first full year of operation the Having established the magazine over the Victorian Landcare Magazine has won the last five editions, it is great to see the I was saddened to learn of the peaceful Ford Landcare Media Award. A very contributions flowing in. passing of Arthur Farvis on October 31 proud and happy team of editors accepted The whole aim of the magazine is to 1997, the founding President of the Bass the award from Marie Tehan, Minister for provide the community with a channel Valley Farm Trees Group, and architect of Conservation and Land Management at a for communicating your efforts and the Bass Valley Landcare Group. ceremony in Hawthorn recently. achievements to show-case new ideas, Born in Heyfield, Arthur moved to Tarwin It was wonderful to receive recognition for and to promote best practice in landcare, Lower where he and Pat sharefarmed the work that has gone into producing the be that from within Victoria or not. before moving to Glen Forbes and settling magazine and also to meet and mingle If you would like one of the editorial team on the banks of the Bass River in 1957. with the other Landcare and Farm to help you with your story, please don’t Management Award winners- a very His efforts in developing Bass Meadows to hesitate to call. If your group has inspirational group of people. what it is today is a credit to Arthur’s something to contribute to the Autumn determination. The clearing of 6’ tussocks, In this issue of the magazine we have edition please fax, e-mail to developing his whole farm plan, his featured Merv and Jan Cupper, our top [email protected] or write to us. strategic revegetation were spurred on by primary producers. Over coming issues We would also encourage groups to his belief that he had been given we hope to bring you more of the winners support the companies and organisations stewardship of the land and that he had stories. who support the magazine with to manage it accordingly. As the winners of the Victorian Ford advertising, as their support is needed to Landcare Media Award the magazine will maintain and develop the circulation of now be judged against the other State win- the publication. ners for the prestigious National Ford Wishing you a happy Christmas and a safe Landcare Media Award. Some of us will be and prosperous new year. in Canberra in March for the announce- ment of the National Awards, we plan to Mal Brown bring home a host of ‘big Paul Crock landcare stories’ from across Australia. Sally Gibson

Victorian Landcare Magazine editors accepting the Ford Landcare Media Award from Marie Tehan, Minister for Conservation and Land Management. ( L-R) Sally Gibson, Minister Tehan, Carri Tiffany, Mal Brown and Paul Crock.

Victorian Landcare Page 4 a quiet achiever Letters to

Michael Power, the current President of His foresight and style saw it grow from 30 the Editor the Bass group said Arthur believed that to over 180 enthusiastic members. God’s gift to him was the land, and his He was instrumental in establishing many Dear Sir, responsibility in return was to nurture of the programs which won the Bass Valley I know that this letter could rock the boat, and care for the land for the future Group the 1996 Victorian Landcare but I’d like to challenge a couple of generations. Community Group Award, including the misconceptions on P.22, issue 4 1997. innovative Roadside Weed spraying Following his retirement from full time ‘Hawksnest,’ I think refers to Hawks Nest Rd, campaign, LEAP and REEP programs, dairy farming, Arthur and Pat stayed on the Pirron-Yallock, west of Colac. the formation of the Candowie Lance farm. He divided his days between the Creek Catchment Management Group, The other misconception, popularly bandied family, Landcare, the Bass Community the 1994 State Landcare Conference, the about, is that ragwort should be the key target Centre, the church and his land. He was a production of the Westernport Landcare in local (stony rises) weed control. It is true very determined focused man who gave News and Junior Landcare activities. that it is the most virulent, but it is only a nothing but his best in all aspects of his life. secondary problem where it co-exists with Arthur’s last effort with the landcare Arthur took this approach in all his and/or under bracken. group was helping the scouts plant 90,000 landcare efforts working tirelessly for the trees a week before he died - a suitable In my earlier days, I sprayed ragwort, group, always looking for new ideas and monument for future generations to blackberries and bracken each with separate innovations that would help the group in remember a most remarkable man. sprays, one species at a time. its fight against land degradation. I would like to, on behalf of the the I now know better. If I spray bracken with a A true landcare campaigner, Arthur Victorian Landcare community, extend our product like ‘Brush Off’ I’d inadvertently be remained as president of the Bass Valley sympathy to Pat, and Pat and Arthur’s hitting ragwort and blackberries at the same Landcare Group for over 7 years. children: Marie, John, Catherine, Anne, time, whilst automatically destroying rabbit and Pauline and Richard and all their fox cover too. Fallen logs are also a grandchildren. liability in this regard, they harbour weeds. I strongly feel that many out-paddock and other absentee land owners inadvertently work against their neighbours as active parasites. One man keeps a clean property, his neighbour constantly undermines his income and efforts by re-infesting him with weeds and rabbits: One owners property is a distinct asset, his neighbour’s property undermines its value by their ugly weedy condition. Real estate is a responsibility, not a cheap source of income at community expense. Also, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment needs to use a lot more mus- cle too in this regard.

Yours sincerely George Read

Victorian Landcare Page 5 Highlights of the 1997 National Landcare ACOSS and Landcare - shared philosophies Conference By Robert Fitzgerald AM, Australian Council of Social Services

“The community services and welfare public monies provided to them, and, to sector was founded on the same three be less and less willing to listen to the pillars which lead to the establishment of views of community groups before they Bill Twigg from Bears Lagoon (second from left), was one of 900 delegates at the National Landcare: community participation, volun- decree what the community needs. Conference, Adelaide, September, 1997. teering and community development. Although there are some benefits in the It must be remembered that the first welfare new contracting culture if it is managed and community services in Australia were the experiences of the Landcare and well, there are also risks to community provided not by government, but by Environment Action Program (LEAP) is organisations. They may find their charitable not-for-profit organisations. telling us that compulsory work schemes autonomy eroded, their capacity to Right up until the 1970s, governments played (such as work for the dole program) will do respond flexibly to local needs and a limited role in funding or providing services the voluntary sector more harm than good; circumstances undermined, and their - but, since then, the situation has changed and labour market programs need to provide original purpose distorted. people with transferable and relevant skills if ACOSS is working hard to they are to be truly successful in assisting ensure that these risks are people in paid employment. minimised and that a new Policy issues definition of partnership between Governments need to develop strategies government and community which recognise the importance of organisations emerges, one citizenship by making our society more which is respectful of the inclusive and giving primacy to social justice strengths and uniqueness of principles. Until scope for personal and social each. All of those involved participation by all members of our society is in Landcare will face the maximised, people’s personal and social rights same challenge. are eroded, and ultimately the quality of life of the whole community diminishes. The contribution of volunteers We need to create a more equitable balance in the relationship between the The history of volunteerism state, the community and the market; and Marion Walton from Victoria (left), on in the community services sector provides one of the pre-conference tours. between social, economic and additional lessons for Landcare. Many environmental goals. Our public policies organisations and services would cease to dramatically. must give greater weight to the maintenance function During the 1970s and 1980s the relationship and development of ‘social capital’ - the without the time, effort, dedication and between government and non-government trust, good-will and cooperation within a professionalism of volunteers. community organisations was a highly community, an organisation, a company or a interactive one. There was a sense of Independent research undertaken by country which underpins sustainable social co-responsibility for the common good, ACOSS highlights the importance of and economic development. and rough equality in the relationship. maintaining a voluntary element in Landcare is a wonderful example of the Landcare. Volunteers think that volunteer In the 1990s, the situation has changed value of social capital. I thank you for the work is only acceptable when: again from one of ‘grant giving’ to contract work you have done to date and wish you • They freely choose to participate making, with governments having the well in the challenging times ahead. lion’s share of the power in • They personally believe that their work determining the substance of the contracts makes a contribution to their community they enter into with community groups. • Their labour is not used to displace paid jobs This is an edited abstract of Robert Fitzgerald’s • The organisation which benefits is a It is now common for governments to seek paper. A full copy of the paper is printed in the non-profit making venture to prescribe ever more precisely exactly Conference proceedings available from Primary what community groups may do with the The ACOSS research on volunteering and Industries, South Australia, GPO Box 1671, Adelaide SA 5001.

Victorian Landcare Page 6 Blockbuster weekend celebrates a year of Powlett activities

By Martin Fuller With individual farmers and Landcare groups continuing work throughout the year the total number of trees and shrubs Located in the heart of South Gippsland established in the Powlett catchment the Powlett River catchment rises within during the last 12 months is now well over the township of Korumburra and 85,000. discharges into Bass Strait, west of Wonthaggi. Establishing 85,000 trees and shrubs within 12 months sounds fantastic, Twelve months of Landcare activity however South Gippslanders attending a within the catchment culminated with the field day held on October 30 at the Park’s planting of over 25,000 trees on the week- property at Wonthaggi saw new end of November 8 and 9 when city based technology demonstrated that could help and local volunteers converged on the area make their revegetation programs more to help landholders with on-farm revegeta- efficient in years to come. tion activities. As a regional launch of the Alcoa The Powlett Project has brought together Greening Australia Revegetation all Landcare and Coast Action groups Assistance Program, the Park’s established David Ziebell showed the group how hand seeding within the catchment to address the 6,500 standard forestry style tube stock over moulboard ploughing is a cost effective vegetation problems caused in the past from over trees while demonstrating the new establishment technique in South Gippsland. clearing of timber, to supply the heavy Youmans planter. The Youmans demands from the mining and forestry Mechanical Tree Planter is one of GAVs A highlight of the year was a Dairy industries in the region. fleet of 12 direct seeding and mechanical Effluent Expo held last March. 75 local Planning commenced early in 1996, planting machines available under the farmers were able to see a range of effluent with on-ground activities starting in statewide Alcoa Revegetation Assistance management options designed to help earnest last November when 300 urban Scheme. reduce dairy waste running off farms and based volunteers established over 30,000 getting into local waterways. Willows attacked trees and shrubs for soil erosion control Willow control works also commenced and wildlife habitat creation. This year the Powlett Project expanded to during 1997 when the Powlett Catchment tackle a number of other issues within the Landcare Group in conjunction with the catchment including nutrient run-off and West Gippsland Catchment Authority poi- weed control activities. Gordon Youman demonstrates the capabilities soned willows along over 10 kilometres of of his mechanical planter at Park’s field day. Powlett River frontage. The willows were causing soil erosion problems and con- tributing to flooding in the lower reaches of the catchment. The Powlett project has been supported by Alcoa, BHP, Edission Mission, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and Landcare Australia Limited. With these partners on board, the project is set to continue over at least the next three years. For further information contact Martin Fuller on (03) 5674 3516, Scott Brain on (03) 5662 2204 or David Ziebell on (03) 5662 9212.

Victorian Landcare Page 7 MAKING FUNDING

GO FURTHER: Amount of loan: 6 x $5,000 loans made each year Repayment terms: $1,000/year/loan paid quarterly over 5 years A group owned Loan Fund Total grants needed: $90,000 raised over 6 years Loan loss reserve: $4,500 A Landcare Loan Fund is being developed The loan scenario is Total loans in operation: 30 (after 6 years) by landcare groups in north east Victoria to presented below: overcome funding difficulties for on ground The Landcare Loan Fund pilot program work. It aims to provide low interest loans to landholders for landcare Yr 1 Yr 2 Yr 3 // Yr 6 works by autumn 1998. Loan 6 x 5,000 6 x 5,000 6 x 5,000 // 6 x 5,000 Molyullah/Tatong Tree and Land sourced from: Protection Group have initiated the project for the Broken Catchment Loan Repayments: 0 6,000 12,000 // 30,000 Landcare Network. The concept is being Grants 30,000 24,000 18,000 // 0 modelled on Community Loan Funds in the USA which have been owned and All figures in present values. operated since 1983 by voluntary community groups without specialist bank- Loan repayments would rise nominally in It is hoped that over ten years, $300,000 ing skills. line with inflation. Loan terms and worth of loans will have been made to the Project Achievements purpose to be decided by a Loans community for landcare works. Committee drawn from landcare groups. Interest in the concept was expressed by For more information regarding the groups around Benalla in spring 1995. Note the initial loan funds are sourced Landcare fund scheme, contact Derek In March 1996 legal assistance was from grants, but over time the Fund relies Mortimer, secretary of the obtained by the group to refine the more and more on loan repayments to Molyullah/Tatong Tree and Land legalities involved in setting up a group operate its loan program. Protection Group on 5767 2330 owned loan fund. Local bankers, DNRE What will Fund Participants gain staff, and staff of a fund in suburban from all of this? How a Landcare Loan Fund works Melbourne that provides no interest loans Donations to the loan fund provide people A Landcare Loan Fund is owned and man- for disadvantaged people have also been with a secure and cost effective means of aged by a Landcare Network. It begins life involved. Technical assistance was also assisting landcare groups or becoming with capital grants from donor bodies. given to the project by a Community Loan involved in landcare. By having their Loans are then made by the Fund to Fund in the USA. contribution used as a capital base rather landholders to help establish landcare The results of this work were discussed than a one off payment, contributors to the works. Loan repayments are adjusted by with landcare group members, and an fund will feel greater ownership and the CPI to account for inflation, but appropriate legal and administrative involvement in the process, a fact the Fund otherwise loans are interest free. structure along with draft loan contract and hopes will encourage people to donate A Forestry Rights Agreement secures large security agreement have now been devel- funds to the cause. farm forestry loans using the new Forestry oped. Once up and running the Fund will depend Rights Act (Vic)1996. The landcare network was keen to less on external funding sources. Regardless This effectively mortgages the trees (and develop the concept of the community of the success of other grant submissions, only the trees) to the Fund until the loan is owned loan fund and is looking to develop the Loan Fund will generate its own cash repaid. As loan repayments are made by a Pilot Program. This Program aims to pro- flow by borrowers paying back principal landholders, money becomes available vide $30,000 in loans every year from and 2-3% interest (to allow for inflation.) again to provide landcare loans. 1998. Administration of the program will be designed to be within the skills set of Landholder group members. repayments Donors It is hoped to invite other groups to join Charitable Trusts Landcare Individuals Farm Perennial and expand the Fund to provide more than Corporations Loan Fund Forestry Pasture $100,000 in loans each autumn for land- Government care work. Loan Landcare Contract Loan Fund 2% Victorian Landcare Page 8 Interest Farmer - Corporate partnership lifts

Participating district pastures. landholders chose a By Cam Nicholson “problem paddock” on their farm, a soil test was taken, The performance of pastures in the Alcoa The Better Pastures program has not made pasture species Woady Yaloak Catchment Project have been us pasture experts but it has helped us identified and man- given a boost thanks to a partnership between become more self reliant.” agement options discussed. district farmers and Wesfarmers Dalgety. Good Business A $10,000 sponsorship from Wesfarmers Joining the Woady Yaloak project was good helped Woady Yaloak’s farmers enhance were considered business according to Peter O’Loughlin, their skills in pasture agronomy and at the but didn’t suit the area agronomist for Wesfarmers Dalgety in same time exposed local Wesfarmers staff group’s immediate Geelong. to a wealth of landholder experience. needs. “We wanted to improve our support for The program, called Better Pastures “We needed to pasture management in the Woady Yaloak attracted more than half the farming gain more catchment and this provided a great oppor- families in the catchment to a series of confidence with tunity to grow our business. farm walks and information sessions, the basics such as designed to develop confidence in “Better Pastures provided the opportunity plant identifica- preparing and sowing pastures. for Wesfarmers staff to learn from the tion and reading a soil test.” Jim said. experience and knowledge of the Woady Local farmer Jim Boyle saw Better Pastures “Once we have mastered the basics these Yaloak farmers.” as a natural progression from the first four other courses have a lot to offer.” years of the Alcoa catchment project when “The format of Better Pastures suited our Better Pastures involved a series of short 3,800 ha of improved pastures were sown. approach to build personal relationships information sessions followed by visits to with our clients.” “The Alcoa funding helped many farmers three or four different paddocks to put the experiment with pastures on their own It is also paying dividends for Wesfarmers theory into practice. farms and wet their appetite for further with landholders in the catchment Participating landholders chose a work,” Jim said. beginning to shift business towards the “problem paddock” on their farm to use as company. Access to advice in the paddock has a case study. A soil test was taken and the become more difficult as demand for The program pasture species identified. This information was discussed and a information on pastures has increased, Better Pastures was designed by the Woady course of action decided. according to Jim. Yaloak farmers who clearly “We needed to develop our own skills so identified where they wanted to develop For more information on the content we are better informed when discussing their pasture expertise. and delivery of Better Pastures, contact Cam Nicholson, 0417 311 098 issues over the phone to DNRE or in the Other courses such as Prograze and the merchandise store,” he said. Grasslands Pasture Productivity Program

Woady Yaloak’s project officer, Cam Nicholson, facilitated the sessions with help from Wesfarmers staff. RANDCARE - Landcare moves By Rob Youl, Landcare Foundation Victoria

A continent away; a country no longer Sue and Elaine vowed to try to intro- apart ... duce Landcare to South Africa. Landcare works for us - what about a much The intervening months filled more populous country with a stratified, with faxes and phone calls, and apartheid-scarred community? several senior Pretoria public Educational standards are high, but most servants gave fine support. South Africans have had little schooling. Nevertheless, Sue needed huge vision, Eleven official languages, nine provincial optimism and courage governments - some new - and huge gaps to raise the necessary $110 000. between the resources, skills and outputs of But she did - from Alcoa of Australia, the export-oriented European farmers on Landcare people from two continents at the AusAid, Ace Radio- WRIST CENTRE in Hamilton large properties, and the millions of maize- 3HA, the Crawford Fund for growing tribal farmers feeding large families International Agricultural Research, the We toured Alcoa’s excellent minesite from two hectares! Ern Hartley Foundation, the Landcare rehabilitation and joined an amiable forum The country’s strong technical infrastruc- Foundation, the Poola Foundation, the on WA landcare led by Theo Nabben. ture includes community monitoring pro- Republic of South Africa’s Departments Welcomed to Victoria by Minister Tehan, grams, and many creative community pro- of Agriculture and Water and Forestry, the group dined with Don Ross of New jects, some financed by overseas govern- the Uebergang Foundation, the US Zealand Landcare Trust. Driving to ments and welfare groups. Department of Agriculture and Hamilton’s Hamilton we visited the Blakes at Shelford Wool and Rural Industries Skills Training and the Weatherlys at Mortlake, all com- (WRIST) Centre. mitted to improving sustainability. Come September Partners The men and women I met at Perth on 5 Twenty-five Australian landcarers September comprised three Zulus, three attended Sue’s second forum - at WRIST Afrikaners, three of English descent, two Centre. Over two days Viv McWaters over- Xhosa, one Swazi and one Venda. saw an open-space conference, full of co- Four national-level policy-makers, two from operation, learning and friendship. agroforestry community projects, two in After meeting the Milnes at Melville media, two in projects for provincial gov- Forest, we saw some of Black Range ernments, one in agricultural training, one ➔ Dundas Group’s over 140 kilometres of L R - Rob Youl, Larry Clark (US), Cyprian in agripolitics (the Zulu canefarmers feder- Buthulizi, Njabula Nduli, Elaine Spencer-White corridors created since 1985. and Sue Marriott ation), and one in computer systems sup- port. Bop ‘til you drop Generally women retain traditional roles, All work at what we’d call landcare The group participated fully in the but feminism grows, with many female offi- activities so could share their own useful exciting National Landcare Conference, cials and politicians emerging lately. experiences. And as few knew each other, providing benchmark dinner dance ... and parallels abound they’ll form long-lasting bonds. Common threads: English for communica- On the road tion; mediterranean climate; lengthy occu- Our superb route criss-crossed the WA pation by indigenous peoples; multicultural wheatbelt, looking at Alcoa accelerated environments; ancient landscapes, extraor- catchment projects at West Dale, Tammin dinary flora and fauna; similar and Gabby Quoi Quoi: enormous regional government, export industries and public salinity problems, scores of committed institutions - and land-use problems. landowners doing large-scale restoration Fruitful friendship works. Two years ago, as a Churchill Fellow study- Peter Thabethe’s Swazi gumboot dance ing land restoration, Sue Marriott met complemented an ultra-friendly South Elaine Spencer-White, Johannesburg media Yoting bush hop. consultant. Georg Schutte (R) & Hendrik Smit (L) explain South Victorian Landcare Page 10 Africa to Victorians Wally Brown and Pat Francis Westwards In Brief

$1 Million funding boost rhythmic performances when hundreds David Beckingsale from DNRE is a The State Government has strengthened bopped ‘til they dropped. representative on the Project Management its commitment to the Landcare Committee and is happy to answer queries Next day Primary Industries Minister John Partnership Initiative with the allocation people may have about the project. Call Anderson presented Mrs Najbula Naduli, of $1 million in grants for the coming year David on (03) 9637 8336. delegation leader, with a Landcare South announced by the Conservation and Land 1998 Victorian Landcare Group Survey Africa logo, the caring hands shape readily Management Minister, Marie Tehan. adapting to outline the African continent. The Victorian Landcare Group Survey, The funding will continue 25 existing conducted by Dr Allan Curtis from Najbula, a Zulu and director in the on-ground projects and co-ordinator Charles Sturt University will be Department of Agriculture, Pretoria, positions and allow the commencement of undertaken again in 1998. The survey has responded memorably. The logo would be six new projects worth $162,720 during been conducted in 1991, 1993, and 1995. official. It recognises the interdependence the next 12 months. As such, it provides valuable information of Africa’s countries, and the need for con- The funding is for the appointment of on the state of Landcare Group activity tinental environmental goals. community based co-ordinators who will over time. Rowan Reid’s and Andrew Stewart’s assist in the implementation of priorities The survey increases the understanding of Birregurra agroforests were bus-stops when identified in the Regional Catchment the issues groups face. It also provides an returning to Melbourne, with a happy last Management Strategies, funds specific opportunity for assessing the level of group evening meal chez Youl. on-ground works and gives financial activity and the factors likely to impact on support to Landcare Foundation Victoria. On Monday 22 September, the group, its their performance. Importantly, it sponsors and Viv McWaters reviewed the Landcare Month 1998 represents an opportunity for groups to tour at Melbourne Town Hall. Lord Mayor The theme for the next Landcare Month, outline their needs. A sample of groups Deveson, who had worked in the republic, in March 1998, is ‘People in Landcare.’ It from each CMA region will be surveyed in wittily farewelled our visitors, who flew out aims to recognise the contribution that mid 1998. in great spirits, vowing to maintain individuals and groups are making towards Natural Heritage Trust Update momentum and keep contact. healthy land and a healthy future. The Commonwealth recently announced They praised Australian honesty, the A calendar of Landcare Month events at least $34 million to Victoria for implementation of Natural Heritage Trust Landcare-generated trust between around the State will be included in the projects. Funding covers a number of government and people, and the involve- March issue of the Victorian Landcare NHT programs including projects ment of passionate, knowledgeable farmers Magazine. If your group has an event that submitted by community groups and at all levels. you would like included fax the details to Jo Safstrom at DNRE on (03) 9412 4442. under the recently signed In future Commonwealth/State Partnership Competencies Three things seem likely: we have Agreement. The Department of Primary Industries and advanced landcare in South Africa, Energy and Environment Australia are Approximately $13 million has been Australian landcarers can assess their place developing a set of ‘competency standards’ allocated to the National Landcare in the world, and we will run for facilitators, co-ordinators and leaders Program. Applicants should have received partnership tours for other regional groups. working with community groups. advice as to whether their projects were funded. Competency standards are statements that describe the skills and knowledge required Applications for 1998/99 will be called for in a job, and the application of those skills this month (December) and will close in and knowledge. The standards will be February/March. Victoria’s submission developed through consultation with will be forwarded to Canberra in June. practitioners and industry across Australia. Should you require further information Competency standards help to identify the about your 1997/98 application or the skills and knowledge required to do a job 1998/99 process, please contact the NHT and assist in focusing training on the contact officer at your local DNRE office. essential skills required.

Victorian Landcare Page 11 When the skies are alive, with By Carri Tiffany

Long-billed Corellas, Sulphur-crested Cockatoos and Galahs. When most of Victoria was cleared for farming the numbers of cockatoos, particularly the Long-billed Corella, took a beating. The early settlers replaced their traditional food source of Native Yam with exotic grain crops and weeds like Onion Grass. The birds adjusted well to a change of diet. But competing with rabbits, losing habitat and the uncontrolled use of poisons severely reduced their numbers. Ask a grain farmer today about cockatoo numbers and you’ll get some staggering Sulphur-crested Cockatoos scratching for onion grass. figures. In the Wimmera flocks of 3-4,000 birds are not uncommon. The birds are no houses. ‘free feed’ to distract them during sowing. longer competing with large numbers of Ian Temby, Wildlife Damage Control Last year Ken ploughed-up 10 acres of rabbits, (mainly due to the introduction of Officer with the Department of Natural onion grass 800m away from the paddock myxomatosis in the 1950’s) and food is Resources and Environment says the key he was sowing and had ‘reasonable readily available. Long-billed Corellas have to controlling cockatoos is understanding success.’ He did the same this year, but now recolonised their traditional range their behaviour patterns. unfortunately with little benefit. whilst Galahs head further and “Cockatoos are sociable birds. They form further south. Ken McPhee doesn’t know why the onion flocks and develop regular flight paths to grass worked one year and not the next, The birds flock in large numbers, feeding areas. The formation of big flocks but he does know the birds are smart. descending on paddocks of emerging crops comes through enhancement behaviour- a “Our farm is on a main road and there’s a and causing significant damage. They are few birds land to feed, they are seen by lot of utes going past but they know which also attracted to vines, young gum trees other birds from the air who then land to one is mine.” and timber structures like farm sheds and feed, and the pattern goes on...” Ken admits he puts a great deal of effort Ian Temby says the birds are attracted to into cockatoo control. He will often visit a sprouting crops. Their preferred foods are paddock five or six times a day when the onion grass, oat and rice grains and young grain shoots are emerging, always sunflower seeds. “During winter cockatoos with his rifle at hand. can feed all day, in the summer they feed in the early morning and late afternoon.” It’s when he works away from the farm, as a hay contractor, that the major damage According to Ian Temby the best occurs. “In one area I lost 40 acres of wheat cockatoo control revolves around good and 30 acres of oats over a three day period. farm management and vigilance. “Farmers 95 percent of the crop was damaged.” need to avoid giving the birds a decoy feed through spillage of seed or excess seed in Ken McPhee’s advice is to try and sow all the stubble. And they need to get in early; crops at the same time. This means bird scaring the birds away as soon as they surveillance can be done in one con- arrive and returning often to re-inforce the centrated period, reducing labour and message.” frustration. Decoy feeding Ian Temby says decoy feeding is an option worth considering. In a trial of decoy Ken McPhee has tried giving the Corellas feeding in South Asutralia 4,000 and Sulphur-crested Cockatoos that Long-billed Corellas were fed 20 tonnes of frequent his property west of Stawell a Oats over a ten week period- while the Merv Cupper from Yelta, near Merbein, with main seeding and germination phase of his gas operated scare gun. Merv uses the gun to keep Little Corellas out of his young trees. the sound of cockies

winter cereals was completed. Ian Ross set to work designing a bigger, Taking into account the value of the grain, stronger kite. After some experimentation wages and on-costs the result was a 10-15 he settled on a sled design constructed fold benefit. Plus the lower costs to farm- from black plastic and dowel. The kite is ers of the reduced scaring effort fixed to a fence into the prevailing wind needed and the extra time available for on 3-400 metres of baling twine. Ian’s other tasks. basic advice is, “the higher, the bigger and Cocktaoo damage to a maize crop east of Colac. the blacker, the better.” One kite will In Victoria rice hulls and almond skins protect around 80 acres. Free traps have also been used as succesful decoy feed. Ian Ross believes the kites are successful The only legal ways to control cockatoos Flying high as they mimic birds of prey. “The Corellas are shooting, ( if you are a farmer protect- take one quick, low lap of the paddock and ing trees, vineyards, orchards or any Ian Ross uses kites to help control Corellas head off. The kites work best on a light commercial crop), and trapping and on his 200 acres at Telangatuk, on the breezy day. They are no good when its still, gassing. Traps are available for loan from Glenelg River. Ian says there has always or too windy.” a number of Department of Natural been a Corella problem in the area and as Resources and Environment Offices. Ian Ross stresses that the kites are just one cropping increases, so have bird numbers. more option for cockatoo control. Ian Temby says that whilst some farmers “A few Galahs come in first, followed by They have halved his use of the scare gun. may be tempted to use poisons, the risks Corellas. When the big flocks form they He also shoots with a regular rifle to “let are unacceptable. “Ultimately poisoning can easily devastate a 40 acre paddock in them know he’s serious.” doesn’t have any real effect on population just one day,” says Ian. numbers. Then there is the risk of “ I use a variety of methods and certainly inadvertently destroying ‘non-target’ Ian Ross’ use of kites as a Corella the kites have been worthwhile. species and of contaminating crops.” deterrent came by chance. His children They’re cheap to produce, but time brought home a kite from a show bag, he consuming. It would be good business if Ian Temby says poisoning is illegal and attached it to a fence and was amazed to someone wanted to go into making them.” dangerous. “Farm safety is a really key issue.” see it kept the birds off 20 acres. Cockatoo Control 1 Good farm management 3 Kites, scarecrows, hides and vehicles • Control onion grass • Combine several methods of • Avoid free feeding in the crop; scaring. avoid spillage, sow at recommended • Scaring must be erratic- shift the rates, minimise residual grain in the scarer often. stubble. • Use kites that simulate birds of • Consider minimum tillage practices. prey. • Feed stock in the evening when the • Works better on small paddocks. birds are not around. 3 Decoy feeding 2 Scare guns • Use second seed, or plough onion • Scare early- when the first grass to expose corms. few birds arrive. • Decoy feed as far away as possible • Scare often. ( Evening from real crop site. scaring can be successful.) • Continue scaring at real crop site. • Shift the scare gun • Extra feed will not increase regularly. population numbers. It only diverts • Back up with use of a existing birds from your crop. real gun.

Victorian Landcare Page 13 MERV & JAN CUPPER: Our top

Merv and Jan Cupper are the winners of the Merv believes diversity is very important 1997 Harold J Hanslow Award for for the horticulturalist. “In general I have sustainable land management in the Mallee managed to develop strategies to combat Region. They are also the winners of the 1997 most of what nature can throw at me. Landcare Primary Producer Award. The However, the whims and fickleness of Cuppers will represent Victoria in the Primary politicians and our trading nations create Producer category at the National Landcare quite another challenge.” Awards to be announced in Canberra in “A good strategy is to be as diverse as March 1998. possible and maintain the highest quality In 1959, when Merv Cupper was 11 standard for the fruit produced. A recent years old, he entered a story writing example was the 1997 citrus season - juice competition in the Weekly Times and won prices as low as $25 per tonne with export ten shillings. Merv’s story was about a navels to America well in excess of $500 swamp, he described it as a bird paradise. per tonne. With an export packout of 92 Nearly forty years later Merv is winning percent and 8 percent juice, the results are Merv and Jan an area of White Mallee competitions for farm management and obvious.” still dreaming of birds. The Cuppers property has an average His knowledge of salinity, picked up Merv and Jan Cupper farm 46 hectares of yearly rainfall of around 250 mm - but through the group, has directly affected irrigated grape vines and citrus at Yelta, with considerable variation from year to the way he runs his property. North West of Merbein. Citrus production year. An additional 750 mm of water for represents about 25 percent of the farm, irrigation is supplied from the Murray “On this property, with the different soil winegrapes and dried vine fruit make up River via a privately managed irrigation types and widely varying infiltration rates the rest. Merv purchased the land in 1970, pumping system. Merv maintains the 100 of water, there is the potential to cause and is starting to see reward for his efforts H.P. electric motor driven pump to a high shallow perched watertables, particularly at ‘meshing farming and mechanical and environmental standard. in the lower areas. This, in turn, can lead conservation together.’ to associated problems such as waterlog- Merv is an active member of the Nyah to ging, land degradation and poor the Border Salinity production.” Implementation Group. He has been Merv has invested a great deal of effort in involved in the plan- matching irrigation application rates with ning, writing and soil types and plant usage. His irrigation now implementation methods vary from patch to patch and of the areas Salinity include overhead and under tree sprinklers Management Plan. and drip irrigation. Ultimately he plans to change totally to drip irrigation because it gives better control of the water and Merv uses ‘no fertiliser requirements to the plants. cultivation’ farming. Reducing water use is one of Merv’s passions. “As a result of five years experi- ence with drip irrigation I can confidently say that irrigation rates can be reduced by 30 percent. This means money savings and more importantly, less drainage waste and increased environmental flows.” Merv says water use by the horticultural industry could be slashed if drip irrigation was used more widely. Another feature of Merv’s management strategy is non-cultivation, which he believes has led to a more even production over the farm.

Victorian Landcare Page 14 The fruits of their labour: Merv and Jan Cupper with the Mallee Region Hanslow Cup primary producers

In 1970 Merv had a severe gully erosion but a successful one. problem in a vineyard of Shiraz winegrapes. Recently the Nyah - Heavy rainfall had created a natural storm South Australia water course and tonnes of soil was washed Border Salinity away. He put a lot of effort into filling the Implementation gully just to see the soil wash away again Committee has during each heavy rain. become involved with the reuse plantation. Merv planted the area and moved to They are providing non-cultivation. Now he witnesses funds to expand the torrents of water flowing through the same area and use it as a water course, but with almost no damage. demonstration site. Merv admits non-cultivation has created some problems with weeds, and a special Merv is excited by this effort is needed to deal with them. He development. “The resorts to hand weeding and burning, site is considered a stubbornly refusing to bring out the valuable contribution cultivation implements. to the battle against salinization of the Although Merv admits it isn’t practical to Murray River and its retain trees within an orchard enterprise, valuable associated he has still managed to develop several wetlands; and to the regeneration areas and replant sites of education of the native trees and shrubs. community about His two hectare site of inland red gums their responsibility to serves as a drainage reuse area. Merv better manage the knows that careful management is environment. Now required with trees grown using drainage that’s something water in excess of 2000 EC. The best site worth being involved for the project was under citrus and vines, in.” so Merv removed them. A dramatic move, Merv aims to produce the best quality fruit possible.

Crown land a ‘valuable asset’

Merv’s guiding principle in his farming “As the land has recovered from seepage exercise is to always be aware of the and dry salting damage I have moved in consequence of his actions beyond the and planted mostly White Mallee farm boundaries. Merv tests his (Eucalyptus gracilis). The final stage was achievements on a six acre area of crown planted in Spring 1996.” land to the west of his property. Merv is negotiating to purchase the site “At my own expense I have fenced this which he believes will be a valuable area (with DNRE approval) and addition to his property. “One day, when progressively planted it with indigenous, I’m not spending so much time at but salt tolerant, trees and shrubs. meetings I’d love to get my binoculars out again and rekindle my passion for bird watching.”

Merv with the drip irrigation he believes gives better control of water to plants.

Victorian Landcare Page 15 True grit: Burgoigee Creek and Hodgson By Carri Tiffany Myles McCormack retired on their own place. The Group is important for from banking in Melbourne to an eyrie in the co-ordinating the action, getting funding and Murmungee hills. Myles loaning equipment.” runs sheep on very steep country with a severe The Hodgson and Horseshoe Creeks Group is bracken and rabbit problem. a bigger affair, bringing in more hobby farmers He has worked with neighbours on a massive that live on the outskirts of Wangaratta and spraying and bait laying Beechworth. Arthur Bennett, a past president program. 50-60 bags of baits of the Group and long time member, says the were laid by hand on his 40 acre property. benefits of joining far outweigh the membership fee of $20 a year. “We have quite a store of machinery; a pasture Winners of the 1997 Two groups; one co-ordinator seed drill, boom spray unit, rabbit fumigator, John F Hughes Award for the tree planters, bait layer and a deep ripper. Not The two Groups share a co-ordinator, Royce only do members get to use the equipment but outstanding work of a group in Sample. Judy Griffiths, Secretary of the weíll also show them how. Give them advice on pest plant and animal control. Burgoigee Group describes Royce as “a good the best chemicals and techniques.” sheepdog, he just keeps turning us back.” Royce works one day a week for each Group, Rabbit control campaign When you drive up to north east Victoria on doing the legwork to keep them functioning. Both Burgoigee and Hodgson and Horseshoe the huge ribbon of the Hume Freeway, the pur- Creeks Groups have always had a rabbit and ple flowers of Paterson’s Curse are like a patch- The Burgoigee Group formed in 1987. weeds focus. In 1996, after a run of mild work quilt; some bare squares where it’s being The Hodgson and Horseshoe Creeks Group in winters and summer rains, rabbit numbers controlled, and many purple patches where it 1989. Sheep and cattle are the main were almost at plague proportions. One absen- has its head. enterprises, with minimal cropping- mainly for stock feed. Group members, (110 members tee’s property had a burrow every square metre. But once you turn off, down the Ovens Highway, jointly) are keen to stress that they are ‘real’ Unfortunately RCD did little to help the as if you are heading for the snow, the paddocks farmers and that productivity issues and situation, (Royce says it worked as an are noticeably cleaner. This is the country of the on-ground works have top priority. aphrodisiac!) so with assistance under the Hodgson and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Group, ‘Rabbit Buster Program’ the groups undertook and when you reach Murmungee, the Burgoigee According to James Neary, the Burgoigee a major 1080 campaign. Creeks Landcare Group. Group’s President, “people do their own thing (L to R) Joe, Mark and Lou Grech. The Grech’s are newcomers to the Burgoigee Creek Group. Mark says the knowledge and information that the Group has given him is invaluable. and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Groups ➔ The Groups put their success with the rabbit This is where it all began. Ken Heywood and weed programs down to their next to a gully he Co-ordinator, Royce Sample. Royce deflects planted as one of the this, saying the Groups are “full of go-getters Burgoigee Creek Group’s first Landcare who are prepared to go the extra mile.” activities in 1983. James Neary from Burgoigee Creeks says getting the funding is the key to getting some action, and this is where a co-ordinator is important. “Groups need someone who can write the right submissions in the right language. Someone who can keep nudging ➔ Members of the Hodgson and Horseshoe Creeks the funding sources along and make sure Peter Bourke is the Hodgson and Landcare Group in their meeting room at the Everton they know what we’re doing.” Horseshoe Creeks Group’s ‘man Upper School House. (L to R) Andrew Davison, of the trees’ Peter grows all of Arthur Bennett, Ron Briggs, Betty Bennett, Peter James says submission writing should be the trees for the Group for no Bourke and Royce Sample. getting to the point quickly. Royce admits charge and with little assistance. He co-ordinates the collection the paperwork can be crippling. “The first of local seed and is constantly A cool room on Ron Briggs’ property (a submission I wrote as a co-ordinator nine experimenting with different years ago was one page long, each of my techniques to get the best member of the Hodgson and Horseshoe results. Creeks Group), was turned into the carrot most recent submission were nine pages command centre with a chopper and a long. Where is it going to end?” Worries about age run through the Groups. constant stock of carrots. Five baitlaying Both Groups see themselves as part of the Peter Bourke says “some of us are getting on a machines were obtained from DNRE and wider community. They are keen to link up bit. When you look about there aren’t many located at ‘carrot command centre.’ with tertiary institutions in research young faces.” A roster was developed to make sure the partnerships and have developed productive The Hodgson and Horseshoe Creeks Group machines were used in a specific area at the relationships with Latrobe University at also has another battle to fight on another same time and returned to the central point Wodonga and the Wangaratta TAFE. front. Their meeting room, the Everton Upper each day. The DNRE Office at Beechworth The Groups are members of the Ovens Old Schoolhouse, with its walls covered in arranged a daily 1080 application every Landcare Network which has a major role in maps and plans and aerial photographs, is afternoon for a month. co-ordinating the salinity program in the area. being sold. The Group has successfully stalled The campaign grew into a huge wave of They are sceptical about the benefits of these the auction and hopes they will be granted the activity. Group members volunteered to assist large regional Landcare networks, saying they title. For Betty Bennett, the Group’s Secretary, others, members and non-members alike, to further distance advisory staff and government it’s an issue very close to home. Betty went to use the machines. In some cases they actually departments from farmers and create more school at Everton Upper, as did all of her six did the job for older landholders who were not administration for the Groups. children. physically able. The Victorian Plantations Future full of hard work Corporation joined in too, contracting the Groups to bait three local plantations. Ken Heywood from the Burgoigee Creek Group says the future has more of the same. The result was a huge reduction in rabbit More rabbit and weed control, more hard numbers. Royce reports that 10,840 kg of work. “We can’t afford to let it slip now. carrots were used on 64 properties. In some We’re running the same rabbit campaign this parts of the catchment not a single rabbit could summer and the weed control is a constant be found at the end of the campaign. task.” The Group is also concerned about The rabbit program has been matched by exten- increasing salinity problems, they are keen to sive weed control work. The Group’s have tar- aerial seed some steep recharge areas with geted ‘the curse and the wort.’ Paterson’s Curse perennial pastures but finding the money isn’t and St John’s Wort, along with Blackberry and easy. Bracken. Burgoigee Creeks wrote its first weed management plan in 1992. More recently both Groups have obtained funding through the Judy Griffiths, long time Secretary of State Government’s ‘Community Weed the Burgoigee Creek Group, with Control Scheme’. Royce Sample planning their next rabbit offensive. Landcare and

By Greg Rankin, Therefore good pastures will contain deep rooted perennials which break deep into Mitiamo the subsoil, recycling nutrients and creating pores for future root and water Landcare and grain growing can go togeth- movement. As organic matter builds in er. We farm a mixed Merino and grain soils there is a marked increase in its flora enterprise on 9,500 acres North of and fauna. Earth worms spring to mind Bendigo. The average rainfall is 14.5 quickly, but termites, ants, fungus, etc. all inches. The operation is entirely ‘dryland’ have a role in creating pores and galleries based and involves our own ground, leased and converting plant and animal residues land and share farming. Since 1994 we’ve into plant food. made some drastic changes to the way we Pasture is a productive component of all produce grain- the result of some obvious future crops. It is a rest time; a period of economic and environmental logic. credits in the soil health bank. We now Let me explain. prepare for a crop two seasons prior to As a grain grower our focus is to increase planting. Herbicides are used to the water use efficiency of our crops and manipulate pasture content. Once the improve the structure of the soil. I see this clovers have flowered my only choice is to as critical. We have limited rainfall so cultivate the soil. I am locked into this as soil structure must allow high infiltration our rainfall doesn’t guarantee sufficient and reduce runoff. Further, crop husbandry moisture to cultivate prior to the autumn (that is rotation, fertility and disease break in the following year. control) must produce healthy crops which Fertiliser decisions made after soil testing can use this water to advantage. Our fertiliser programme is based on well With a healthy crop and good soil timed soil testing and the application rate structure a high percentage of rainfall is adjusted to produce our target yield with- enters the root zone. This means runoff out depleting the soils reserves. and loss below the root zone is dramatically reduced. I believe it also reduces nutrient loss. “The time has come where farmers can no longer rely on governments to provide the level of support we have come Healthy high yielding crops begin when to accept. The grains industry needs to access government and industry funds under self help the pasture phase is planted. arrangements, conduct our own research and market Pastures are planted with the last crop of a the findings. The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is our most valuable tool, rotation. The pasture phase is a time when providing both direction and the means to soil nutrient levels can be bolstered understand problems and through applied phosphorus and fixed produce logical solutions.” atmospheric nitrogen. It is also the period when levels of organic matter should be increasing. Organic matter aides soil structure and acts as a slow release nutrient reserve during the crop phase. Ideally the pasture phase will contain a high legume content to raise soil nitrate levels. It should also aim to improve soil structural characteristics such as drainage and organic content. ➔ ➔ Greg Rankin in a fallow paddock. “Degradation of soils has taken place over an extended period, any move toward their repair is a good move. Obviously the quicker the repair the better, but it should not be at the expense of the farm business.” Victorian Landcare Page 18 grain growing

Tissue testing and regular sap nitrate “It is paramount to the long term health of every catchment, that testing gives us the ability to keep an accu- as much grain be extracted from rate eye on soil fertility and allows an edu- each hectare as possible. cated fine tuning of nitrogen If yields are always close to maximum then less area has to applications. Tissue testing shows zinc be under crop to feed the status which is not reliably detected in soil population. Poor quality crops tests. Nitrogen is applied as urea, in a on marginal land use almost as many resources as high yielding pre-drill operation and phosphatic crops. They are an unsound fertilisers are planted with the seed. economic and ecological proposition.” Gypsum is regarded by many as a cure all. It certainly aides water infiltration and pre- vents surface crusting but these are long term problems of over cultivation and Direct drilling is not always the best option or mowing. The bottom line is still a bal- ance between short time viability and long declining organic matter. We use Producing grain crops today is an term sustainability. gypsum as a catalyst when a paddock is expensive business. There is a huge first fallowed, but hope that improvements pressure on growers to adopt direct drilling Landcare and “inputs” can go together in soil husbandry will achieve the same or at the very least, stubble retention, mini- The road to producing high yielding grain results in the longer term. mum tillage technology. Sowing time is not crops is via the adoption of sound soil care the time to rush head long into either of A good crop needs good seeds principles. We use herbicides, pesticides these practices without A crop needs every chance. Good quality and artificial fertilisers, but still farm with knowledge of the pitfalls. disease free seeds are essential. We aim to Landcare principles in mind. The body of evidence which says stubble achieve approximately 125 shoots per My background was low input and non retention systems are superior in the long square metre, per ton of grain, per hectare. chemical but I believe the soils and crops term is huge and growing. But the machin- This can only be done with good quality we are producing today are much ery to do the job properly, is seed and adequate fertiliser. healthier than they were under previous exorbitant in price. At the end of the day Crop rotation is important mainly from a production methods. Responsible many growers buy a machine that may not disease control point of view. While the fertiliser and herbicide use is part of our perform the task to the optimum. It may be paddock is fresh, having come out of good Landcare ethic, in a bid to minimise the better to adopt minimum tillage and per- legume based pastures with grasses wider impact on the catchment. form operations which leave crop residues removed, I plant canola as a first crop. in a manageable state, things like slashing Canola has been shown to have a Photographs by Carri Tiffany fumigating effect; as the crop residue breaks down, chemicals are released which destroy some of the yield limiting diseases in wheat. Following canola, wheat always performs well. “How do we get other farmers to change? Demonstration paddocks should be set We are beginning to plant Faba beans or up at strategic sites where grain is produced. The information should be posted in Lupins as a third crop and have Lucerne as a user friendly format so that at any time a passerby stops for a look it’s obvious what’s being done and why. I am thinking here of the excellent work being done by an undersown pasture Legume. Wheat is the Birchip Crop Demonstration sites. The future will see a shift away from direct drilled into this stubble then machinery field days to technology transfer type formats.” undersown with Lucerne again. This gives two seasons to establish Lucerne and reduces the effect of unsympathetic seasons. Clovers and Medics are spread along with fertiliser, into the final stubble the following autumn. As such we have four crops capable of producing high yields and disease is controlled by never growing back to back co-hosts. The benefits of ‘setting’ aside By Greg Rankin

Land stewardship is not a god given right. They will also act as a wind break in an Farmers need to view their properties from otherwise treeless area and give us an the outside to see the total picture and the opportunity to make use of nutrients ramifications of their activities. moving through the property from further up the catchment. I intend to I would like to see all farmers think about plant many more kilometres of these set aside areas for land uses other than gullies before my time is through. those that are accepted as main stream The timber produced is a saleable farming. Here are two examples of set aside product using otherwise wasted projects we have underway: resources. Namely, water and other • In 1995, with the assistance of a River peoples nutrients, both free to me from Murray Corridor of Green grant, we higher in the catchment. planted 20,000 trees and shrubs over 40 • Another site on the property is a acres. The area includes a drainage line lignum swamp of 40 acres which would which is the exit point for most of the cost a fortune to drain and bring into water moving through our land. crop production. We see no gain at all The plants in this gully will help in doing this. At present it produces clean up the water leaving the small amounts of feed, abundant shelter property and provide habitat for and costs very little to maintain. wild life. Set aside conservation areas are the logical option for sites like these which require radical modification to become In 1995 the Rankin’s mainstream productive farming areas. planted 20,000 trees These areas should be seen as an aide to and shrubs over 40 productivity and long term sustainable land acres. use rather than a poor compromise.

Bombers launch Urban Rural Links Essendon player Michael Long joined students from Barmah Primary School to launch the Urban Rural Links Program’s first year of activities recently. Urban Rural Links promotes the Landcare ethos through linking up urban and rural schools, Landcare groups, councils and the wider community. The launch was a great success with students from rural and urban schools participating in Waterwatch activities followed by a football clinic and a tour of the Hall of Fame. The Program’s Co-ordinator Ingrid Duncan said Landcare and football do have some similarities. “Like sport, Landcare is a great way of bringing people together and discovering common ground.” For information contact Ingrid Duncan on (03) 9462 3209. Spreading Landcare through the Commonwealth A LANDCARE EXCHANGE TO CANADA By Ross Jones and Geoff McFarlane

April 1997 saw the first phase of a new exchange program between Victorian Landcarers and and a group from Alberta, Canada. The fifteen Albertians came to Victoria to investigate how Landcare could complement some of their community development programs. The result of the tour was a positive one, with the Canadians inviting a group from Victoria to visit them and talk to their local communities about Landcare. In early August this year, 14 Victorian landcarers travelled to Alberta in the second leg of the exchange. A highlight for the Victorian tourists was their hosting program. The participants were bilited with local farming families for 12 nights in four different parts of Alberta. This was similar to the hosting program when the Canadians visited Victoria. The tour looked at all forms of agricultural production including ranching. Ron and Doreen Briggs from the Hodgson & Horseshoe Creek Landcare group “The tour gave us a chance to have a good and the impacts on remnant vegetation by thoroughly enjoyed the trip. “The tour look at all forms of agricultural production clearing were also looked at by the group. was highly organised and the Canadians from intensive cropping, ranching, Gerard McKinley from the Dookie Land opened their houses and hearts to us and feedlotting, bison and other alternative Management Group commented that the made us really welcome.” they said farming ventures. The enthusiasm shown issues in Canada were not all that by our hosts to diversify their enterprises different to home “There is general Tom Dumaresq from North West was astonishing” He said. recognition of these problems by most of Mooroopna Landcare Group was the (Albertian) farmers and there is a impressed by the Canadians enthusiasm to Environmental issues such as water and air great potential for community groups to diversify their farming operations. quality, soil salinity, pest plants and animals, tackle these issues like they have done in Australia.” Both exchange tours were organised and led by Geoff McFarlane DNRE Tatura, who after visiting Canada as a recipient of the 1993 Sidney Plowman award felt Landcare would be a program that could be implemented in Alberta. He visited Alberta again in March 1996 and was able to arrange the visit to Victoria by the Canadians earlier this year. Another tour to Alberta is being planned for late June 1998 involving 15 - 20 Landcare people from Victoria. If you are interested in finding out more details please contact (after hours) either Ross Jones, Katandra on (03) 5828 3378 or Geoff McFarlane, Shepparton on (03) 5831 3250. Victorian Landcare Page 21 Members of the Exchange tours in Alberta Canada. Weed funding, weed busting,

$1.6 million boost for weed war Weedbuster week Conservation and Land Management National Weedbuster Week took place in Minister, Marie Tehan has announced Victoria from the 12-19 October 1997 and grants totalling more than $1.6 million to attracted a great deal of community tackle problems caused by weeds interest. More than 100 activities took throughout rural Victoria. place during the week as groups and The Minister said the grants would fund 100 individuals worked to tackle weed projects nominated by landcare groups, local problems specific to their area. government bodies and other organisations The Friends of Koolunga ran a successful to take place over the next 12 months. working bee to target Angled Onion The latest grants are the second in the weed in the Koolunga Reserve at Ferntree State Government’s $12 million, four Gully. year Weed Initiative announced earlier this Gordon Carter, from the Friends of year by Mrs Tehan. Koolunga said 18 people attended the Mrs Tehan said stage two of the Weed working bee and handweeded 12 large bags Initiative would concentrate on 39 of Angled Onion.”They all worked very declared weed species covering a total hard. We certainly made an of 3,958,641 hectares. impact but there’s much more to do, particularly along the creek .” “Weeds cost the State more than $360 million a year in lost agricultural Angled Onion is a small plant with a production alone and the environmental strong onion smell and white bell shaped impact is also very substantial.” flowers. It’s seeds and bulbs are carried by water moving down hills, creeks and Applications for the grants were drainage lines. It is also spread during assessed by the regional Catchment roadworks when soil is being shifted. Management Authorities under guidelines The Knox Council came and collected the Nadine and Amy Munzel from Wakool got set down by the Department of Natural their copy of the Win the War against Weeds weeds at the end of the day. Kit at Elmore Field days. Resources and Environment. Gordon Carter said the Friends Group was keen to reduce the impact of Angled Weed warriors: Gordon Carter gets a helping Onion and would be holding more Huge demand for Weed Kit hand from his grandson, Mitchell Abson, at the working bees throughout the year. Koolunga Reserve working bee. Photograph 10,000 copies of the new Weeds Kit have reprinted with permission of Leader Newspapers. been handed out in the past three months. The kit contains a comprehensive booklet with information on Victoria’s major problem weeds. It aims to increase awareness and understanding of what the problem weeds are, and how to control them. Requests for the kit are coming in thick and fast from regional offices of DNRE, farmers, landcare groups, community groups and schools. Copies of the weed kit will be available until the 12th of December 1997 by telephoning the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (freecall) on 1800 678 886. weed reading and weed alert

Weed Alert: Kyllinga kills pasture From December it produces small green, production knob-like flowers and seed heads. The weed Kyllinga, or Mullumbimby Couch, is yellows and dies off in autumn, forming thought to be spreading in irrigated dark patches in pasture over winter. pasture throughout northern Victoria. Foe more information contact Geoff Animals avoid grazing infested pasture Strachan at the Department of Natural which can mean dramatic reductions in Resources and Environment on (03) 5381 milk production. 1777, or Earle Phillips from the Wyuna Russell Pell, a member of the Wyuna Landcare Group on (03) 5859 4204. Landcare Group, said the weed has spread Weed Alert: Uruguay Needle Grass from Kerang to Katunga in recent years sighted in Melbourne area and could easily be seen throughout the dairy pastures of the Goulburn valley. Uruguay Needle Grass, a highly damaging noxious weed, has been sighted in the According to Russell Pell many farmers Port Phillip Catchment. A native of South found it difficult to identify the weed. America, Uruguay Needle Grass (Nassella Kyllinga is a perennial sedge that can grow charruana) was first sighted in Victoria at up to more than 20cm and form dense Thomastown in 1990. It has also been patches. It has slender shiny green leaves reported at Epping. Uruguay Needle Grass at Thomastown and creeping underground runners. Dr David McLaren from the Keith Kyllinga appears around Christmas time Turnbull Research Institute at Frankston says the weed forms dense competitive and looks like rye grass, producing a sweet infestations and is very poor stock food. smell when crushed. It is unpalatable and has very sharp and clinging seeds. David McLaren believes the weed may be potentially more hazardous than Serrated Tussock. “It is essential we exterminate small populations to prevent any significant outbreak.” The Weed Society of Victoria and Victoria University are running a workshop on Needle Grasses (Nassella species) in March 1998. For further information contact Ros Shepherd on The flowers and seed (03) 9783 6876. heads of Kyllinga. For further information about Uruguay Needle Grass contact your local office of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Minister for Conservation and Land Management, Marie Tehan looks at problem weeds with Peter Brock on his property near Hurstbridge.

Left: Kyllinga forms dense, Victorian Landcare Page 23 brown patches in paddocks. Expanding statewide revegetation options Victoria’s fleet of direct seeding and tree Prior to the new funding planting machinery has been significantly initiative, the GAV fleet upgraded following a strengthening of the comprised six Hamilton Tree partnership between Greening Australia Seeders, an Eco Seeder and a Victoria and Alcoa of Australia. Narromine Mechanical Treeplanter. These have all been The expanded Alcoa Revegetation refurbished and repainted. Assistance Scheme was launched by well The new additions will give the Alcoa Ron Dodds, GAV’s Wimmera based facilitator known weatherman (and new GAV board Revegetation Assistance Program greater introduces Rob Gell to the Waikerie seedling planter. member) Rob Gell at the property of John flexibility, with a range of specialised and Merrilyn Oldfield near Nhill. Over equipment to suit varying conditions. fifty local landowners, landcare group •‘Youmans’ tree planter. members, representatives from local The new machinery includes: This simple and robust machine is government and Catchment Management •‘Stirling Rippa Seeder’. capable of planting conventional Authorities, Government Agencies and This robust and simple direct seeder tubestock, bare rooted and ‘cell direct seeding technicians were able to see is particularly suited to light sandy raised’ plants. the new machines in action. soils where scalping for weed control Ongoing funding support by Alcoa will see The vast Wimmera landscape provided a and water harvesting could be an the continuing maintenance and develop- dramatic backdrop illustrating the needs advantage, and will also have ment of this program and its fleet of and challenges of re-establishing application where sites are rough and machines. vegetation cover to the land and in doing stony. All machines are available to landholders so maintain and enhance productivity. •Roden III Scalping Seeder. and landcare groups throughout Victoria A gathering of vintage Grey Fergies This machine has been specifically to assist in large scale revegetation pro- supplied by the Nhill Vintage Tractor Club designed for low rainfall districts and jects. Advice and bookings can be made by provided a perfect match for the Hamilton areas with non wetting sandy soils. contacting GAV regional facilitators or Jim Tree Seeders as they were set to work •‘Waikerie’ seeding planter. Robinson at GAV in Melbourne on (03) seeding nearby paddocks, while the old Designed to plant ‘cell raised’ 9457 3024. Fergie’s great grandsons, supplied by local seedlings, and capable of planting AGCO dealers, Polas of Nhill, pulled the over one thousand per hour. new mechanical planters. The CRA Group supports Landcare

We believe that a co-operative community approach can reverse much land degradation and help achieve sustainability.

The CRA Group is pleased to be a partner in CRA PROJECT PLATYPUS with the landcare groups of Upper Wimmera and their fight to restore habitat and improve water quality in the Upper Wimmera Catchment. Bandicoots ‘go home’ to Branxholme NEW PRIVATE The Fenton’s field day at Branxholme near of grasslands to dig and build nests and Hamilton looks like the standard fare. A thick scrub to harbour from predators. mob of farmers and a few They are terrific at keeping the insect pests FORESTRY government officers swapping stories in down. And they really are such beautiful the shearing shed. But this field day is not creatures, it is a delight to have them shar- about pastures, or fencing, or soil types. ing the farm with us,” she says. It’s about creating habitat for Victoria’s 50 bandicoots have been released at COUNCIL most endangered native mammal, the Lanark over two years. Regular trapping Eastern Barred Bandicoot. programs show that the population is Victoria’s private plantations will be The bandicoot was once widespread across surviving and breeding well, thanks to the tripled to 750,000 hectares by the year the basalt plains of Western Victoria. Fentonís efforts at predator control. 2020 allowing the creation of 10,000 new Landholders around Branxholme reported On the night before the field day Cicely jobs in regional areas. it was common in the grasslands around worked with wildlife officers to set traps 60 years ago. Loss of habitat, the around the house, six healthy bandicoots Deputy Premier and Minister for introduction of predators and the use of had been caught by morning. Each animal Agriculture and Resources, Patrick chemicals like DDT saw the bandicoots has a micro-chip implanted behind the ear McNamara addressed the new eleven reduced to a small population around so the population can be constantly member Private Forestry Council, which Hamilton. It is the descendants of these monitored. will implement the strategy, as well as 80 animals that have been released on the representatives from local government and Cicely has been vigilant in controlling Fenton’s property ‘Lanark’. the timber industry in Benalla recently. foxes and feral cats on the farm. She says Cicely Fenton proudly reports this is the this has benefits for their lambing The Minister said Mr Angus Pollock, first time the bandicoots have been enterprise as well as the bandicoots. General Manager of Forest Resources at released to live in the wild on a farm. “I lay Foxoff baits every week to ten days Australian Paper in Morwell, will Chair “Bringing back the bandicoots is the result and we have drastically reduced fox the Council. of many years of our work at Lanark,” she numbers. This means better lambing The Councils’ aim is to develop an says. “We have been tree planting, fencing percentages. And there are other benefits industry-government approach to achieve and re-filling our wetlands for over 30 too. With less foxes and cats we are seeing the plantation expansion of around 20,000 years. Ten percent of the farm has been more native birds breeding in our hectares per year in Victoria. put down to trees and shrubs and wetlands. Sacred Ibis are great insect The State Government recognises the allowed to regenerate.” controllers so we welcome their increase.” major potential of private forestry. At “The bandicoots The Fenton’s aim for the Lanark maturity, the proposed additional 500,000 need a mix bandicoots is to have a self sufficient hectares would result in $6 billion per population. Bandicoots may then be annum in benefits and provide over 10,000 ‘harvested’ and taken to other areas to additional rural jobs in growing, harvesting establish new colonies. and processing plantation Cicely is also secretary of the Smokey timber, the Minister said.. River Landcare Group. The group is The Deputy Premier said the Council will working on a plan to create habitat be appointed for a three year period to for the bandicoots from Lanark, oversee the strategy. through several other farms, and The inaugural Private Forestry Victoria eventually linking with a disused Councillors are: Angus Pollock, Lloyd railway line at Coleraine. James, Don Jowett, David Roberts, Cicely says she has found the Dominique La Fontaine, Douglas project very satisfying. “We Stevenson, Peter Sutherland, Russell have always loved wildlife. Washusen, Peter Anderson and Malcolm It is a great privilege to have Tonkin. something as special as the Eastern Barred Bandicoot on our doorstep,” she says.

Cicely Fenton checks a trap for the Eastern Barred Bandicoots that now share the farm at Branxholme. Victorian Landcare Page 25 Rural Womens Leadership Bursaries announced

Twenty three rural women are the 1997 recipients of the Victorian Government’s Rural Womens Leadership Bursaries aimed at enabling talented women from rural or remote Victorian settings to receive leadership training. Each recipient receives $2,000 towards the costs associated with seeking further leadership education, including relief labour for their small business or farm, child minding costs or travel expenses. In announcing the recipients, Deputy Premier and Minister for Agriculture and Resources, Mr Patrick McNamara, joined the Minister for Womens Affairs, Ms Jan Wade, in congratulating the successful applicants for their keen interest in the leadership bursary scheme. “All the successful candidates have clearly demonstrated their aspirations to attain key positions within the The 1997 recipients of the Rural Womens Leadership Bursaries are: Karen Barr, Lancefield. Anita Graham, public life of their communities and Romsey. Lorraine Ermacora, Simpson. Kate Scroggie, Terang. Louise Nunn, Noorat. Virginia Falls, that their contribution will be Casterton. Cheryl Pike, Bacchus Marsh. Joanne Bourke, Rupanyup. Liz Boland, Bairnsdale. Karen Bertram, Bruthen. Margareta Osborn, Tinamba. Clare Le Serve, Corinella. Meg Parkinson and Patricia Fleming enhanced by undertaking leadership (joint recipients), Fish Creek. Lorraine Percy, Sale. Linda Bennison , Moorooduc. Jenny Farrar, Churchill. training programs,” Mr McNamara said. Margaret Crisp, Corryong. Vera Fleming, Shepparton. Margaret Brown, Cudgewa North. Jennafer Perri, Echuca. Carol McFadzean, Undera. Nola Evans, Bonnie Doon. While you can’t predict the future Pivot Prescription Farming helps you profit from it • A complete yet simple approach to improving profitability of your farm.

• A new competitive state-of-the-art Soil and Plant Tissue testing service from the Pivotest Laboratory.

• A new computer based “nutrient decision sup- port system” exclusive to Pivot, and a first in Australian Agriculture.

Pivot Prescription Farming is being progressively introduced throughout Australia. For more detailed information contact your local Pivot Service Outlet or Pivot Agriculture staff.

PIVOT LIMITED. ACN 004 080 264 160 Queen Street, Melbourne 3001. Tel: (03) 9605 0400 PIVOT PROMOTING PRODUCTIVITY PVT2856 Bruce Lloyd to head new Australian Landcare Council

Victorian farmer Bruce Lloyd has been Council, including Peter Clarke, Mark environmental appointed as the chairman of the Thomas, Rick Farley, David Papps, Tim conservation,” Government’s new community- based Scholz, Clive Thomas, John Smink, he said. Landcare advisory body, the Australian Tracker Tilmouth and Rex Edmondson. The Australian Landcare Council. Victorian Landcare identity Alison Teese Landcare has also been appointed. Council will Bruce Lloyd has a long association with be one of five expert panels providing the farming community and government, Federal Primary Industries and Energy advice to the Natural Heritage Trust and a keen interest in land and water Minister, John Anderson said the commu- Board, comprised of Mr Anderson and the management issues in Australia. nity representation of The Australian Minister for the Environment, Senator Landcare Council was strengthened by the The heavy load bridge The Australian Landcare Council will pro- Robert Hill. gives access to machinery appointment of a number of active new vide advice and strategic direction to the on both sides of the creek. members with a practical awareness of the “The Natural Heritage Trust will draw Government in relation to the Landcare issues faced by landcare groups. “Landcare together a number of complimentary and Rivercare programs, and will replace has been an outstanding success in programs such as Landcare, Bushcare and the former National Landcare Advisory Australia, with over 3,250 landcare groups Rivercare to greatly improve the status of Committee (NLAC). and more than 25,000 active members our land, water and vegetation resources, Bruce Lloyd is one of eleven new successfully achieving improvements in and provide a valuable legacy for future appointments to The Australian Landcare both sustainable agriculture and generations,” Mr Anderson said.

Small and sustainable: 1997 Small Farm Awards Part-time farmers and small landholders tory, a quarterly newsletter, The Small Second Prize: Ian McPhee, of Phillip are on the increase in the Port Phillip area Rural Property Networker and bi monthly Island. of Melbourne. The Minister for information forums and field days run in Third Prize: Mary and Greg Downes, of Conservation and Land Management, conjunction with the Victorian Farmers Doreen. Marie Tehan, recently announced an inau- Federation.” gural award to encourage sustainable land The winners’ received goods donated by The winners are: practices on small holdings. Wesfarmers-Dalgety and BHP Wire First Prize: Anthony Hooper and Julie Products, an annual membership to the The Award is the result of a joint Weatherhead of Peppermint Ridge Farm, Natural Resources Conservation League Department of Natural Resources and Tynong North. and an enlarged aerial photograph of Environment and National Landcare their property from United Photo and Program project which investigated what Graphic Services. information small rural landholders required about land management, what The Cleveland Winery and Bed and was the best way to deliver such informa- Breakfast at Lancefield supplied a night’s tion, the characteristics of small rural accommodation to the winning landholders and their goals. couple. Second and third prize win- ners received a Mrs Tehan said small property complimentary dinner and bottle holders often find themselves in of wine at De Bertoli’s Winery an information vacuum and and Restaurant at Dixons have difficulty accessing relevant Creek. land management information. DNRE and Landcare are The 1997 Small Farm Award Winners’ property at Tynong North. bridging these gaps through They use this relocated school building the production of a land to run courses on sustainable farming. management information direc-

Victorian Landcare Page 27 Landcare study tour a rolling success

The group of Victorian landcarers buckled in and ready to roll on their mystery tour to the National Landcare Conference.

The VFF Landcare Sub Committee ment and knowledge has followed. The initiated the project to increase morning tea put on by our hosts was out participation by Victorian farmers and of this world. landcarers in national landcare activities. A visit to the 1997 Wimmera Region The tour was organised by Greg King, the Hanslow Award winners, Adrian and former VFF Landcare Manager, who, with Lorraine Coad’s farm at Telopea Downs the assistance of a selection panel chose was facinating. Six years ago the Coad’s the 41 successful participants from a field were struggling with the major of over eighty applicants. management issue of “non-wetting sands”. The tour visited the 1997 Victorian BP With the adoption of mixing clay with Catchment Award winning project, Rio sand, a range of productive and Tinto Project Platypus in the Wimmera. conservation benefits have resulted in a South Gippslanders Bruce and Marianne Standfield, This large scale catchment project aims turn around in Landcare activities. Cam Walker and John Flemming prepare to board to improve the water quality in the the bus bound for South Australia. The tour introduced landcare people from Wimmera River, and eventually leading across the state and enabled them to get to the return of the Platypus. to know each others issues and group By Alex Arbuthnot The group inspected monitoring perceptions of landcare in Victoria. equipment in the Iron Pot Creek sub The tour also enable them to get into the catchment however the visit the Aston learning mode prior to the national A Landcare study tour and visit to the Scour was interrupted by some very conference. National Landcare Conference in Adelaide welcome rain. Tour members did manage was organised by the VFF with funding The tour party enjoyed the networking to discussed project development and assistance by the National Landcare opportunities throughout the Conference management directions with the Project Program. in Adelaide, and returned to Victoria full Platypus Committee, and shared ideas of new ideas, contacts and with their Forty one Landcarers selected from ten about their own projects or groups. batteries recharged. CMA regions around Victoria participated In Horsham on the second day the group in the study tour from September 14 - 20 On behalf of the tour group and the VFF visited salinity and landcare works in the culminating at the National Landcare I would like to thank Greg King and Coral Drung region. Drung South Landcare Conference in Adelaide. Love for their untiring work in organising Group have demonstrated outstanding this successful tour. communication activities with schools and the community through which involve- For more information contact Alex Arbuthnot on (03) 9207 5555 Victorian Landcare Page 28 Scouts Plant 90,000 Trees Photos by Alan Foon The Bass Valley Landcare Group hosted During the weekend the hoard of over 1,200 scouts recently. The troops scouts set what is believed to be a planted nearly 90,000 trees and shrubs world record for tree planting. within the Bass River catchment to “The enthusiasm and effort put in celebrate the Australian Scouting by the scouts were a credit to the Association’s 90th anniversary. scouting movement” said Martin Fuller, the Bass Landcare Coordinator. “They hauled trees up and down hills all day - all in the name of helping remedy soil erosion problems and to provide habitat for native wildlife.” He said. The Scout Project was funded by the National Heritage Trust and through a new partnership between Edission Mission Energy and the Landcare groups in the area. For more information about the Scout Project contact Martin on 014 402 249

RURAL FINANCE Financing Better Farm Businesses CORPORATION

Central 350 Collins Street (03) 9243 2668 Horsham 17 Darlot Street (03) 5381 0052 Mildura 31-33 Deakin Ave (03) 5023 3025 Shepparton 2/164 Welsford Street (03) 5821 2655 Swan Hill 118 Curlewis Street (03) 5032 9900 Traralgon 16 Kay Street (03) 5176 1761 Warrnambool 132 Koroit Street (03) 5562 9611

If your land purchase or property development program requires borrowed capital, ask RFC to design a flexible loan package to suit your circumstances. Understanding and Financing Better Farm Businesses. ON THE SHELF - New Publications Know Your Catchments, Victoria 1997 This impressive atlas-style report is a snapshot of the condition of Victoria’s catchments in 1997. Each catchment is considered for its soils, groundwater and salinity, pest plants and animals, vegetation and wildlife habitat and streams and wetlands. Know Your Catchments is an attempt by the Victorian Catchment and Land Protection Council to make information more accessible for landholders and catchment managers. It will be an important resource document for the new Regional Catchment Management Authorities. The report uses ‘interim indicators’ to assess the condition of the catchments. Reader are invited to respond and help Free copies of the hand book are available productivity issues on sustainable agricul- define what are the right indicators to by faxing (02) 6299 6036. tural systems in the Murray Darling Basin. measure. Sustainable Agriculture: Protecting It is relevant to studies in geography, the environment and agriculture and has over Know Your Catchments is available for our Heartland 30 activities. $20 from the Department of Natural Looking for teaching resources about the The kit is the third in a series of resources Resources and Environment Information Murray Darling Basin ? Look no further. on sustainable agriculture in the Murray Centre on (03) 9637 8080. This new kit from the Department of Darling Basin which focus on biology, Natural Resources and Environment, the URL address for Know Your Catchments chemistry and geography. The kit is Geography Teachers Association and the http:\\www.nre.vic.gov.au\catchmnt\conditn available from the Geography Teachers Murray Darling Basin Commission is a Association of Victoria (03) 9824 8355 for Are there seeds in your wetland? comprehensive tool aimed at senior $45 + $10 postage and handling. This excellent hand book produced by the secondary students studying geography. Landcare Best Practice Land and Water Resources Research and The resource materials cover land and Development Corporation and the water resource management and policy and Launched at the National Landcare University of New England looks at the Conference in Adelaide, Landcare Best ‘hidden treasure of wetlands’- Practice is a series of case studies on seedbeds. Landcare issues contributed by groups, The hand book provides simple researchers and co-ordinators across guidelines on assessing a wetland Australia. using a vegetation survey, The book was drawn together to germinating seeds, identifying what acknowledge the efforts to date of comes up and then Landcare groups and to inspire and comparing results. It doesn’t increase the effectiveness of other attempt to give full details on Landcare groups as they prepare strategic waterplant identification because plans and undertake on ground activities. plants and conditions vary so much throughout Australia. However it The case studies are an eclectic mix of is a good starting point for groups research and articles. They range from and individuals scientific papers to profiles on individual interested in learning more about farmers who talk about their history and the possibilities of their local ideas. wetlands. A limited number of free copies of Landcare Best Practice are available from Angela Carini at the Department of Natural Resources and Environment on Victorian Landcare Page 30 (03) 9412 4622. HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:05 AM Page 1 Sands Print Group

victorian andcareandcare I s s u e 7 A u t u m n LLI s s u e 7 A u t u m n 11 99 99 88

Investing in Landcare pays

Destroying the secret agent of weeds

Aquaculture - A sea of possibilities

March is Landcare Month Celebrating people in Landcare HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:05 AM Page 2 Sands Print Group HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:05 AM Page 3 Sands Print Group CONTENTS

Editorial Business Management Wade Hughes Page 5 Wally Shaw Peter Sutherland Native grasses Editorial Group Page 7 Paul Crock (03) 9207 5555 Mal Brown (03) 9412 4382 Sally Gibson (03) 9412 6508 Protecting the Buxton Gum Editorial Consultant Page 9 Tiffany & Associates (03) 9894 2169 Dairy best practice Advertising Manager at Poowong Paul Crock Phone (03) 9207 5562, Fax (03) 9207 5500 Page 14

Design Aquaculture - a sea Bouquet Productions Pty. Ltd. of possibilities Phone (03) 9376 0911, Fax (03) 9376 0922 Page 16 Printing Focus on local government Henry Thacker Print Group Breakwater, Geelong. Page 22 Phone (052) 483 333, Fax (052) 487 222 Destroying the secret Cover Photograph agent of weeds Alan Foon - Courtesy Edisson Mission Energy. One of 90,000 trees planted at Bass celebrating Page 24 90 years of the Scouting Movement. Investing in Landcare pays Contributions and mailing list enquiries Page 28 Victorian Farmers Federation Landcare Section, Level 6 24-28 Collins St, ‘Victorian Landcare’ Magazine is a joint publication of the Victorian Farmers’ Melbourne 3000 Federation, Alcoa of Australia Limited and the Department of Natural Phone (03) 9207 5555 Fax (03) 9207 5500 Resources and Environment, with the support of the Victorian Catchment email: [email protected] Management Council and Greening Australia Victoria. Victorian Landcare is published for the Victorian Landcare Community by the Victorian Farmers Federation, 24-28 Collins Street, Melbourne 3000. Articles may be reprinted provided Victorian Landcare is acknowledged. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of statements in Victorian Landcare the Victorian Farmers Federation, its partners, agents, servants and contractors disclaim all responsibility for the statements quoted here in. Victorian Landcare Page 3 ISSN: 1327 5496 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 4 Sands Print Group

Landcare to benefit from ATCV -

The Australian Trust for Conservation Coast Action groups better and give our ATCV weekends Volunteers and Alcoa of Australia have members a wider choice of activities,” he include many varied teamed up to broaden the statewide focus said. activities including of the Alcoa Landcare Program with an fencing, tree planting The weekend program will provide and weed control. innovative weekend program throughout support to existing Alcoa Landcare funded 1998. projects such as the Woady Yaloak The program will see ATCV members Catchment, Warrambeen Landcare assist in landcare projects throughout the Education Centre, the Portland SeedBank state over most weekends of the year, with and Serendip Sanctuary, but will also activities range from one day to three day involve other activities being undertaken camp outs. by Landcare and Coast Action groups. Ian Smith, ATCV State manager, saw this Alcoa Landcare Coordinator in Victoria, as a great way of linking urban people Paul Crock, said the program will give with the bush. Alcoa employees in Geelong, Anglesea and Portland the opportunity to become “There are numerous urban rural links involved in landcare in a practical sense. programmes happening. However Alcoa’s support for the ATCV “As Alcoa is a corporate member of the will enable us to ATCV, Alcoa employees and staff are paid support landcare and up ATCV members, and as such are free to join in activities in and around their communities or as far afield as they would The ATCV program gives the like to go.” He said whole family an opportunity to become involved in the landcare movement.

Financing Better Farm Businesses RURAL FINANCE CORPORATION

Central 350 Collins Street (03) 9243 2668 Horsham 17 Darlot Street (03) 5381 0052 Mildura 31-33 Deakin Ave (03) 5023 3025 Shepparton 2/164 Welsford Street (03) 5821 2655 Swan Hill 118 Curlewis Street (03) 5032 9900 Traralgon 16 Kay Street (03) 5176 1761 Warrnambool 132 Koroit Street (03) 5562 9611

If your land purchase or property development program requires borrowed capital, ask RFC to design a flexible loan package to suit your circumstances. Understanding and Financing Better Farm Businesses. HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 5 Sands Print Group

V - Alcoa Partnership Letters to Ian Smith agreed. “We are happy to invite all employees of Alcoa and other Corporate members’ employees and staff the Editor to participate in the weekend program. It provides a smorgasboard of activities in Dear Editors conservation and landcare including seed collecting, tree planting, weed control, VIVA Landcare building tracks in national parks - the list I have enjoyed your Landcare Magazine right goes on.” through from the early days when Salt Force News was such a success under the wise “Activities have been scheduled for nearly guidance of Carri Tiffany. Certainly every weekend to Christmas. The aim is Landcare today is a winner! to provide enough choice to involve everyone,” Ian said. In the Summer 1997 issue, one of the articles that really made me sit up and take notice If you are interested in attending any of was on page 8 about a group owned loan the weekend projects or joining the fund. You can bet your boots that it is the Australian Trust For Conservation Broken Catchment Group which started this Volunteers, contact Ian Smith in vital initiative. Melbourne on (03) 9686 5554. The area south-west of Benalla boasts some of the wonderful people who started the landcare movement in Victoria, specifically Seed collecting along the coast Councillor Pam Robinson of Violet Town and helps stock Victoria’s seedbanks. Angus Howell of Baddaginnie. So this region remains true to the centre of innovation. Most people have heard of Dr Yunus of Bangladesh, who has made a wonderful FROM THE EDITORS success of the Gramin Bank by asking small groups of women to take responsibility for a Landcare Month Branching out loan, made without any security or March is Landcare Month. Other causes As well as the usual ‘group stories’ in this guaranteed backing whatsoever. get one day a year to strut their stuff but issue of Victorian Landcare we have a Of course here the amounts of money would we get a whole month. The theme for feature on Landcare in the city and a be very much greater numerically than for Bangladeshi village industries, but in relative Landcare Month is ‘People in Landcare’. profile of several people involved in the social significance, how different? aquaculture industry. If you have a Landcare Australia chose the theme particular industry, issue or technique I wonder. ‘People in Landcare’ to highlight the hard you would like to see raised please drop work and inspiration of individuals and However the golden principle of group us a line. groups involved in landcare. Certainly on responsibility carries through. our travels around the State, attending Spread the word I am hoping to offer an article on a large field days and interviewing farmers we are saline land reclamation project for publication Victorian Landcare is one of a few, free, continually astounded at how people, in a future issue of the Victorian Landcare if quality magazines around, thanks to the often acting alone, can change the face of found suitable. At present this project is not support of our sponsors and advertisers. their local landscapes. far enough advanced to warrant a useful We currently distribute to 35,000 readers, report. During this month, the Museum of Victoria mainly in rural Victoria. If you are not on will launch its major travelling exhibition the mailing list please send your details to on sustainability, Future Harvest, at the the address listed on page three. You may Yours sincerely, Gippsland Landcare Festival. Landfest, a also like to subscribe for a friend or Alan Coad huge success last year, will once again bring neighbour. the crowds to Creswick. A mining and The Editors landcare seminar will be held and the winners of the 1997 National Landcare Mal Brown, Paul Crock, Sally Gibson Awards will be announced. If you would like more details on Landcare Month activities call Landcare Australia’s free call number, 1800 151 105. Victorian Landcare Page 5 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 6 Sands Print Group Mia Mia Project helps Lake Murdeduke The group planted nearly half of the 30,000 trees during 1997.

The Leigh Landcare Group, based on the “Our group has had a real boost. It will go a “Money is pretty tight at the moment, but basalt plains 40km west of Geelong, have long way towards helping us in our efforts the way in which the farming community been successful in obtaining funds from to protect our local waterways and to has banded together to support the project the Natural Heritage Trust and the enhance our local environment,” he said. is a credit to their vision and commitment Corangamite Salinity Fund to revegetate to the environment,” Graeme said. Paul Whinney, DNRE’s Geelong based 30km of Mia Mia Creek frontage. Salinity Officer, reinforced Bronte’s For more information about the Mia Mia The Mia Mia Creek is a highly comments, and highlighted the strategic Project contact Bronte Payne, salt-affected drainage line and, with the nature of the task. (03) 5265 1370, Paul Whinney or constant grazing pressure over the years, Graeme Anderson at the DNRE Geelong “The project compliments other group its banks have become eroded and office on (03) 5226 4667. efforts, especially nearby salinity control unstable. The erosion and salting in the demonstrations where increased sowings creek is causing water quality problems in of perennial pastures are reducing runoff the internationally significant Ramsar and groundwater intrusion while wetlands of Lake Murdeduke. increasing the productivity of the district.” The Mia Mia Project started in May 1997 “Protecting creek lines with native tree with 19 adjoining landholders agreeing to cover not only provides wildlife with fence 30km of creek frontage to protect corridors, but has immense benefits for remnant vegetation and plant a greenlife grazing livestock by providing valuable corridor from Lake Murdeduke to the farm shelter on the harsh western district source of the Mia Mia with over 30,000 plains,” Paul said. trees. So far, nearly half of these are in the ground with the remainder being DNRE Landcare Officer, Graeme planted by this coming spring. Anderson saw the NHT and salinity funding as a wise investment in the Bronte Payne, Leigh region’s natural environment. Landcare Group President, welcomed the NHT and “The cost of one blue-green algal outbreak Corangamite Salinity in Lake Murdeduke could cost the Fund support. community hundreds of thousands of dollars. The funding received by the group Peter and Phyllis Kininmonth explain the provides critical financial erosion problem to Lachlan Polkinghorn. incentives for the landholders to take on such a large scale landcare project to counter this risk.” The group introduced National Landcare Facilitator, Lachlan Polkinghorn to some of the works on Peter and Phyllis Kininmonth’s property undertaken in Spring 1997.

Victorian Landcare Page 6 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 7 Sands Print Group Native grasses- exploding the myths

Landholders may soon have access to By Jo Curkpatrick several native grasses suitable for sowing We want low input, persistent native into pastures in upland and hilly grasses which make better use of existing landscapes. water and nutrients, saving the landholder Over the last four years, a team of costs in lime and fertilisers. We also want researchers from Victoria and New South native grasses that dry out the soil profile Wales has evaluated 800 native grasses before the winter, reducing groundwater representing 30 species in the LIGULE recharge,” Bill Johnston said. project, a collaborative project under the At a recent field day in the Axe Creek National Dryland Salinity Program and Catchment near Bendigo, landholders were funded by Victorian and NSW salinity shown some of the promising grasses and programs and the Meat Research given details on forage and seed production, Corporation. persistence and plant water use. LIGULE means low input grasses useful in “The LIGULE project is the most limiting environments. It’s an apt name comprehensive evaluation of native for the native grasses being evaluated at grasses for agriculture in Australia,” said sites across Victoria and southern NSW Craig Clifton from the Centre for Land with several showing potential as pasture Protection Research at Bendigo. cultivars requiring low cost management. “Many of these native grasses have never According to Bill Johnston, team leader been looked at before,” he said. for the project, of the 800 native grasses evaluated in the first phase, 20 have been “The aim isn’t to find pastures to replace evaluated in the second phase for their lucerne or phalaris.We are looking for potential as commercial cultivars. native grasses that will grow and survive in difficult environments. For example we’re “We’re looking for grasses that will survive not looking for high palatability, because on harsh, hilly landscapes where soils are highly palatable grasses are likely to be often shallow, stony, acid and not very fertile. eaten out in these difficult landscapes.” Bill Johnston examines Tall Windmill Grass, a favorite warm season grass that seems to have potential. The project is looking for native grasses showing persistence, good Many of the native grasses already in farm quality forage, an ability to paddocks may well turn out to be a produce seed and importantly to valuable addition to pastures in difficult dry the soil profile. Tall Windmill landscapes. Grass, Common Wheat Grass, A new project supported by the Murray Wallaby Grass, and Weeping Darling Basin Commission is underway to Grass all show potential and will expand some of the research completed in undergo further evaluation. the LIGULE project. The aim of the project is to develop practical and sustainable grazing management guidelines for grazed hill pastures in the Meredith Mitchell and Craig Clifton from southern part of the the Department of Natural Resources and Environment show landholders in the Axe Murray-Darling Basin. Creek Catchment some of the more promising native grasses.

Bill Johnston outlines the potential of native grasses for hillside landscapes to landholders in the Axe Creek Catchment. Victorian Landcare Page 7 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 8 Sands Print Group

Coordinators Facilitated at Rowsley Victoria’s landcare coordinators and facilitators came together at Rowsley, near Bachus Marsh, The Rowsley Forum brought together late last year to meet, Victoria’s landcare discuss their concerns professionals and and set the direction for has helped establish on-going their future. relationships that will strengthen the The “Open Space” get landcare movement together was organised throughout the state. by the Victorian Farmers’ Federation in response to a call from the coordinators and facilitators for support and assistance in developing clearer communications and direction. b) a Chameleon that changes its appearance If you are interested in getting more Facilitated by former state landcare every year; and, c) a Panther: you can’t see it information about the forum, copies of the coordinator, Viv McWaters, the forum but you know it’s there!). proceedings are still available from the VFF, contact Paul Crock or Jon Pitt on process of “Open Space” involved starting Draft proceedings of the forum were (03) 9207 5555. with no set agenda, empowering the compiled immediately following each landcare professionals with the challenge workshop, allowing people to of identifying their needs, wants and read and contribute to the work- concerns, and discussing ways and means shops they had missed. they will work together in the future to The final proceedings were fulfill the outcomes. photocopied and distributed by Within thirty minutes, 27 workshops had the VFF within two weeks of the been identified, ranging from sharing get together. technical expertise to issue based The main outcome of the forum workshops dealing with coordinator and was to initiate a network of facilitator networks, professional coordinators and facilitators that development needs and wants and would meet regularly to give each “The NHT animal” (eloquently described other support and to develop the as either or all of: a) a Boa other recommendations from the Constrictor that forum. National Landcare Facilitator, squeezes the life Lachlan Polkinghorn, was on out of you; hand to hear first-hand what the coordinators and facilitators thought of the NHT animal.

L-R, Tracey Delbridge, Yarriambiack, Jane Rapkins, Glenthompson, and Kate Greer, Heytsbury, catch a breath after vigorously helping set the agenda for the coordinators and facilitators’ forum. HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 9 Sands Print Group Protecting the Buxton Gum in the Yarra Valley By Stephen Fletcher

The Yarra Valley Tree Group received The Buxton Gum is a small to medium, While cattle have grazed the property funding from the One Billion Trees fast growing, tree which grows on swampy since the 1850’s, the rich river flats have Program for part of the major Yarra Flats sites as an understorey to Eucalyptus also been a home for much wildlife Revegetation Project which included ovata. While it is very common in including Eastern Grey Kangaroos and projects at Green Point, Tarrawarra Abbey cultivation as an ornamental tree or as a Platypus which occasionally visit, and and Chateau Yering. tree for supplying cut foliage for the florist resident Wombats and Sugar Gliders. trade, remnant communities are extremely The bird life is abundant ranging from In early February 1997, the group identified rare and isolated. Pelicans, Yellow Tailed Black and Sulphur a site at Yering on a 210 hectare property crested Cockatoos, to numerous species of owned and managed by Valerie and Cathy The community at Yering contains five waterbirds, Wedge-tailed and Withers as one of the only two sites where very old trees which are now in decline, White-bellied Sea Eagles. the Buxton or Victorian Silver Gum and a number of naturally occurring (Eucalyptus crenulata) is known to be hybrids of Eucalyptus crenulata and The Withers have successfully negotiated found naturally. Eucalyptus ovata. with the Victorian Trust for Nature to have a covenant placed on this site to Anecdotal evidence suggests that there may The area fenced off around these trees to provide legal protection for this valuable be other rare remnant populations of these exclude cattle grazing also includes a ecosystem. They have also been included trees along the Great Dividing Range in lagoon and a remnant Swamp Paperback in the Land for Wildlife scheme and are Victoria. As these are yet to be confirmed, (Melaleuca ericifolia) community. Seed keen participants in Melbourne Water’s the only other known community is at from here was collected and seedlings Healthy Waterways Program. Buxton in the Acheron Valley. propagated for revegetating the area. The Yarra Valley Tree Group is very pleased As well as planting Eucalyptus crenulata, to be involved in such an ongoing project the tree group included a range of other that has already seen the planting of over suitable indigenous species. 2,500 trees, shrubs and grasses and applauds Valerie and Cathy Withers for their efforts in protecting and enhancing the natural heritage values on their property. For more information on this project please contact Stephen Fletcher, Yarra Valley Tree Group Publicity Officer on (03) 9730 1517.

Victorian Landcare Page 9 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 10 Sands Print Group 1997 Victorian Landcare Awards T Wyuna Landcare Group Winner The Wyuna Landcare Group is a good example of an ‘outward looking and forward thinking’ group. Wyuna has involved government departments, other landcare groups, boy scouts, LEAP groups, school students and Dhurringile Prison work parties in its varied calendar of activities. The Wyuna Group is located between Kyabram and Wyuna in a dairy farming district of the Shepparton Irrigation Region. They have 74 current members. Earle Phillips, the group’s publicity officer, said good communication is the reason the group has been so successful. “With poor community awareness you won’t achieve anything. We operate on a system of small sub-committees, this helps Sharing knowledge: The Wyuna Landcare Group’s Watertable Watch training day. to concentrate our efforts and skills. We use keen and active members to speak A grid of 90 Watertable Watch Test Wells To maintain financial viability the group to those who are on the outskirts of the has been installed across the group’s covers its running costs through group,” he said. 15,076 hectare area. The wells are sponsorship from local businesses. regularly monitored and the information The group ran a successful ‘twilight tour’ The group was formed in 1993 in response gathered has assisted the group in of its projects for business and professional to concerns about rising watertables, completing further EM 38 and EM 34 people as a way of raising their awareness. salinity and the lack of trees in the area. Salinity Surveys of their area. Sixteen Campaspe Shire also helps out. The group They understood the need to do farmers from the group are now sends an itemised and costed application something visual and started with a participating in an exploratory drilling to the Shire each year before the Shire massive tree planting exercise. program. budget is set. Over 50,000 trees were planted to assist with rising watertables but also to attract Salinity in the area is severe. The group is Earle’s advice to other groups is to make the interest of the community. at the cutting edge of research on the communication a priority. utilization of saline soils. Members are Watertable Watch has also provided them Wyuna produces a quarterly newsletter interested in practical solutions on a with good visual impact on the state of which is mail-dropped to all members. ‘working farm’ that are realistic and local watertables. The newsletter includes the current affordable for the average farmer. month’s watertable map to increase Advice from both community awareness and interest in the government and the group’s work. They also produce a flier just private sector is being before each meeting and they invite a guest used to come up speaker. The average attendance at a with farmer friendly meeting is a healthy 25. Instead of a tedious solutions. AGM they hold a free community BBQ. Earle Phillips says he sees a strong future Earle Phillips accepts for the group. The drainage the award from the sub-committee is working on a plan for Minister for Conservation and a large community surface drain and he Land Management, is excited at the prospect of seeing it Marie Tehan. completed. HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 11 Sands Print Group s The Landcare Community Group Award The Upper Murray Catchment Farm Tree Group

Lyn Coulston has been one of the group’s co-ordinator, the group has been The Upper most active members. She puts their responsible for the formation of five local FinalistsMurray Catchment success down to persistence. landcare groups. They are currently Farm Tree Group (UMCFTG) “We are a small group in a fairly conserva- mid-way through a three year project with may be small, (14 members) but it has a tive area, but gradually we have been able the Tintaldra, Cudgewa and Koetong long and impressive history. The group to demonstrate the benefits of our work to Landcare Groups to develop a local formed in 1985 to increase the awareness the wider community.” Waterwatch project and catchment plans of tree decline in the Upper Murray. The group has created a niche in providing for Cudgewa and Koetong Creeks. They have worked hard to identify areas the best local information on trees and The group are great ‘promoters’, suffering from tree decline and land vegetation. They have published a survey particularly of agroforestry and whole farm degradation and to promote the establish- of tree decline and land degradation in the planning. They are also working on ment and retention of native vegetation area, monitored the effect of dieback and preserving the past through their both on public and private land. insect attacks on local Red Gums and management of Avondale Garden. The group’s achievements are outstanding. completed various vegetation, weed A historic garden south of Shelley, the Roadside and community plantings have control, fertilizer, pasture and agroforestry group carries out the maintenance and has changed the face of the local landscape. trials. Along with amassing technical replanted many of the original species. To raise funds the group grows trees each knowledge they have produced pamphlets, “I am very positive about the future of our year and sells them to the Shire of Upper display boards and a ‘Native Plant Guide group,” Lyn said. “We have focused our Murray. The money raised, along with for the Corryong Area’. future efforts on water quality, protecting grant funds, is used to grow more trees Lyn Coulston says the group has a unique catchments and promoting plantations. which are donated to landcare groups, role in the district, by acting as an But of course we’ll never stop growing and schools and community organisations. ‘umbrella’ for other groups and various planting trees.” joint projects. Often playing the role of Moolort Landcare Group

The Moolort Landcare Group has devel- oped a simple but effective approach to land management. They are aiming to Moolort Landcare establish deep-rooted plant species on Group members high recharge areas, to protect streams and at a soils field day. wetlands and to farm well, (practise sustainable agriculture) in between. The group formed in 1989 and has 45 mem- bers drawn from a 400 square km area east of Maryborough. The main farming enterprise “We are fortunate that the visionary and intercept water and to provide cover on in the area is cropping, sheep and cattle. forward thinking ideas from the early bare rocky volcanic cones and scarps. Project Branchout days have come across The group’s work has seen dramatic The group has initiated an environmental and helped us with the Landcare group,” changes in the landscape of the windswept assessment of the Moolort Plains he said. Moolort Plains. Shelterbelts of trees and Wetlands which includes around 50 shrubs are appearing, placed strategically The group has made research and data swamps. The more significant swamps are on high recharge areas and along drainage collection one of its priorities and has being signposted for the public’s interest. lines. Fences are keeping stock out of been the instigator of new techniques. wetlands, enhancing vegetation and Jeff Mikkelsen said the Moolort Group improving habitat for waterbirds. Aerial seeding is being used to establish backs its activities with a strong better pastures on difficult rocky ground. committee structure and a rotating Jeff Mikkelsen, the group’s secretary, says Using guidelines on revegetation executive. The group’s administration, while they have achieved a great deal they developed by David Holmgren, indigenous technical library, seedbank, newsletter have a huge area to cover and there is still species are being planted as multi-purpose and water monitoring projects are all much to be done. He attributes the group’s east-west shelterbelts against the carried out by members. success to its early links with Project prevailing winds or along drainage lines to Branchout. Victorian Landcare Page 11 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 12 Sands Print Group

Small Landholders blast noxious weeds with GABBA

The Upper Bolinda Creek Land These real or perceived issues Management Group is a small group based associated with noxious weed control, near Romsey, 50km north of Melbourne. motivated the group to short-circuit the problems by engaging a contractor The group formed in 1992 with the aim of to do the weed control works. Terry Davon, Shire of Macedon Ranges, Tim making two tributaries in the region more Manifold, licenced weed sprayer and Julie Francis, attractive to wildlife by excluding live- The group and the Shire of Macedon GABBA coordinator and member Upper Bolinda stock from the creeks, establishing local Ranges teamed up to implement the Creek Land Management Group species of riparian vegetation, and linking Gorse And BlackBerry Action (GABBA) Twelve per cent of the targeted the creeks to other areas of vegetation by program. The shire nominated an landholders participated in the program forming corridors. accredited weed spraying contractor who with over 45 hours of weed spraying being set aside a week to undertake the program, The group has since initiated an completed. Feedback from both the and funded the printing and distribution innovative noxious weed spraying program contractor and participating landholders of the letters to 120 landholders in the involving its smaller landholders. was positive. Landcare group area notifying them of the “One of the main land management issues program. Julie says the main advantage of the facing the group is noxious weeds control; program is that it is a self-funding project Landholders rang and booked a time mainly gorse and blackberry,” said project with landholders paying for their own during the specified week if they had coordinator for the group, Julie Francis. weed control. weeds they wanted sprayed. There was no “There has not been much action on weeds minimum charge, giving the landholders “The scheme removed complications and in the area. Most of the farms are less than the option of engaging the contractor for hassle and made weed control a simple 100 hectares, landholders lack a commercial as little as 20 minutes, as work was being procedure of a phone call and a payment incentive to control weeds, face a lack of undertaken for their neighbours too. which suited any budget - we had a range knowledge of control measures - in from $25 to $1500,” she said. The landowners’ concerns were allayed particular, knowing which herbicides to use by having a licensed operator spray their Julie believes the scheme has merit where - and have a reluctance to buy and use weeds, saving the need to hire equipment, small landholders don’t have the expensive chemicals which are only buy chemicals or know the right equipment, expertise or time to control available in large quantities. They also have conditions to spray in. weeds. If you are interested in finding out no access to adequate equipment,” Julie said. more contact Julie on (03) 9379 2607. “Many of the smaller landowners fear of off-target damage when using herbicides The roadside gorse problem. The landholder on the left participated in and the recent requirement for a chemical the GABBA program. users permit for some herbicides has had quite a negative impact,” she said.

Victorian Landcare Page 12 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 13 Sands Print Group

GroupsGroups formform shareholdershareholder purchasingpurchasing co-operativeco-operative By Catherine Clancey Background: The contrast Members from the well established between one of the initial trial Swifts Creek - Ensay Landcare Group sites and the hill country co-operatively purchased a direct drilling demonstrates the challenges being faced by the group. machine to address their issues of soil loss, pasture weeds and farm viability across their catchment in the high country of East Gippsland. The conservation seeder project has given the community the tools to establish perennial pastures on steep hills under harsh conditions and therefore improve overall farm viability and soil protection. The group of farmers that form the Swifts Creek - Ensay Landcare Group got together initially to address the issue of the spread of weeds in their pastures, especially Scotch Thistle. Left: Steve O’Brien (L) and After successful bulk chemical purchases Chips Boucher (R) inspect some illustrated to the group what benefits can of the pasture establishment work be gained by banding together, the need done with the new machine. to have an integrated approach to weed control and pasture management was identified, raising the idea of purchasing a co-operatively owned machine. Many nights of discussions raised issues about problems with conventional seeders highlighting the requirements for a group owned machine. Some of these were hard wearing, easy to clean, good seed to soil contact, fit through gates etcetera. The list formed a prototype for the heavy duty, triple disc, direct drill modified for harsh conditions and hilly terrain. Right: Chips explains The group decided to apply for National the tripple disc system to members of the group Landcare Program funding to cover part of the cost of the machine, but first had to raise its contribution. The test was on for them to put their money where their mouth was. A shareholder model was adopted and $10,000 raised in one night. Despite the continuing dry spell since the steep hills, high intensity summer And so their co-operative developed. machine arrived, the area sown down has thunderstorms and lack of topsoil, the Guidelines for how to manage the already exceeded the target set by the Swifts Creek - Ensay Landcare Group has machine, hire costs and maintenance group. The machine has had a new set of the tools to begin to turn around the land expenses were ironed out, and a bearings, is greased and ready to go in degradation on their hills. competent member of the group was anticipation of welcome rain. For more information about the seeder or delegated responsibility to maintain and Although there are still challenges to the Swifts Creek - Ensay Landcare Group manage bookings. The accountability establishing perennial pastures in the high pasture projects, contact Catherine Clancey aspects for the machine were country, such as unreliable rainfall, DNRE Swifts Creek on (03) 5159 4344. co-ordinated.

Victorian Landcare Page 13 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 14 Sands Print Group Poowong East prope r

Located near Poowong in South Production Gippsland, Peter and Wilma Mackay The earliest production records Wilma moved to “Arnum” in 1974. could easily unearth for the dairy enter- Faced with pastures in average prise were the 1977 figures when they condition, inadequate subdivisional milked only 88 cows. fences, eroded gullies and sparse remnant vegetation, 25 years of hard “In 1977 our production figures per cow work has seen a dramatic were 3,121 litres and 129kg butter fat per improvement in the property and cow (no protein figures were available). rewarded them with the 1997 Port Since then we have increased our herd Phillip Hanslow Award for farm number to 200, and production figures per management best practice. cow have lifted to 7,451 litres, 291 kg butterfat and 246 kg protein.” Revegetation During the 1995/6 wet season, the In 1975, Peter and Wilma set about Mackay’s cows averaged 7,794 litres, 293kg turning around the property. Wilma butterfat and 246kg protein, compared to highlighted the approach to their district average figures of 4,600 litres, ambitious revegetation strategy. 180kg butterfat and 148kg protein per cow. “Gullies were planted to control erosion, areas that were too steep for Loafing Barn stock were revegetated to minimise “We attribute the success over the last wet sheet erosion and make the farm safer. spell (and the following dry season) to our But the trees were also seen as the loafing barn. It was our biggest leap in best way to shade and shelter stock faith. Our figures tell us the punt was a and hence play a part increasing right one,” Peter grinned. productivity,” she said. Built in 1994, the 61m x 24m barn is “There are now over 15,000 trees designed to feed and house 200 cows. on the property, 75% of which we They are fed all year on a ration of planted by hand - the others brewer’s grain and triticale, and silage as regenerated from fenced off needed. (Peter and Wilma conserve remnants. The focus of ongoing 400-500 T of wilted silage annually). plantings is now filling in existing plantations with understorey species Peter outlined the rationale behind the where required and planting more barn’s construction. for shade and shelter.” “Pugging of pastures can be minimised in With the revegetation plan the wetter months, minimising pasture dam- underway, Peter and Wilma worked age from compaction of the clay soils (which hard to maximise productivity in an results in reduced pasture growth and environmentally sensitive manner. increased runoff in summer), there is much “In 1977 we milked 88 cows, now better fodder utilisation as feed is eaten and our herd numbers 200 dairy cows not trampled into the mud by the cows. and 50 beef cattle. We milk off the the best 85 ha and run the heifers and beef cattle on the steeper parts of the property,” Peter said. “Our management decisions are predicated on optimising herd size to minimise pasture damage and erosion problems rather than trying to stock at the highest possible rate.” “We join our cows with superior genetics, to calve 40% down in early autumn, and the remaining Victorian Landcare Page 14 60% during winter,” he said. HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 15 Sands Print Group e rty highlights dairy best practice

Nutrient Management David Ziebell, South Gippsland Landcare Facilitator, nominated the Mackays for Fertiliser management to match the the 1997 Hanslow Farm Management improved pastures has also been a key to award. “While the farm speaks for itself, increasing the productivity of the Mackay’s the Mackays are enthusiastic promoters property. In a split application, the of the whole catchment effects of Mackay’s spread 400kg/ha Super Potash 3 sustainable farming and have been and 1 (or 2 and 1 in late summer), fowl integral to the success of Landcare and manure in mid autumn, and DAP or the Farmcare program throughout the similar nitrogen fertiliser mid-winter. region,” David said. Both Peter and Wilma are conscious of “Their demonstrated ability to link nature water quality issues and manage their conservation with increased productivity nutrients accordingly. Dairy effluent is makes them worthy regional winners of collected in a concrete sump and pumped this award”. on to pastures via a sprinkler. The hose is moved regularly to avoid pasture waterlog- For more information about ging and nutrients flowing into the creek. “Arnum” or the Mackays contact David Ziebell on Water and Wildlife (03) 5662 9212. “We have a large dam on the property which serves three purposes: It neutralised a serious gully erosion problem, it provides a large water storage for the dairy, and now There is also the safety benefit of not fully revegetated, provides an important having to feed out with machinery on wildlife haven for birds and animals in the steep wet hills,” he said. area,” Peter said. “Any water quality “The barn has revolutionised pasture problems in the dam would directly impact management on the property by giving us on the dairy, and on water siphoned to the option of taking the pressure off the troughs around the property.” paddocks at crucial times of the year,” Community Wilma said. Both Peter and Wilma are “During winter we can overnight the cows heavily involved in in the barn and hence greatly reducing Landcare, both pasture damage allowing a quicker locally and at a recovery in the spring.” regional level. Grazing Management Peter Peter highlighted the contribution grazing is the management and pasture renovation had president in productivity at “Arnum”. of the local “The cows run on an average rotation Triholm over the year of 25 days, with a shorter Landcare rotation in spring of 12 days, and a longer Group and rotation of 35 days in winter.” Wilma represents their group on the “Turnips still play an important role in our South Gippsland summer grazing program, giving the cows Landcare Network. the fresh feed they need to maintain production while preparing the ground for The successful effort Peter sowing improved perennials in autumn.” and Wilma have put into The Mackay’s aim to establish at least 12 “Arnum” lead to the property hectares of new pasture annually, while being included as a demonstration boosting existing pastures by direct farm for the Farmcare Program in drilling quick growing annual ryes. South Gippsland in 1990. Victorian Landcare Page 15 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:06 AM Page 16 Sands Print Group AQUACULTURE -a sea o Australia’s aquaculture industry is worth Greg can no longer meet the demand for “At Rubicon we endeavour to replicate as around $515 million per annum. his popular Atlantic Salmon and caviar closely as possible, a natural freshwater Victoria accounts for around $18 million product, but he has plans on hand to environment by raising the salmon in of that total, a modest share compared to increase production. long, deep earthen ponds which are fed by the other States. artificial waterfalls. The waterfalls create a An economist by training, Greg began his strong current for the salmon to jump and Aquaculture in Victoria is highly diverse. love affair with fish more than 16 years swim against just as they would do if they Most of the activity is in specialised cold ago when he bought some trout for a dam were living in a wild stream where salmon water trout farms. Smaller scale operations on his country property. swim upstream to spawn,” Greg said. grow warm water fish and yabbies as a “I literally fell into it,” he said. “I enjoyed supplement to agriculture, produce Yarra Valley Salmon take longer to grow the trout production so much that I bought tropical fish for the ornamental market or than the same fish raised in a sea cage. into another farm so that I could expand.” work in marine environments, mainly The slower more natural growth results growing mussels. In those days most of the trout went to from lower water temperatures and the Safeway stores and this provided a need for the fish to exercise as they swim According to Victoria’s most recent financial basis for the move into the more and jump against the water flow. Aquaculture Strategy the industry is on exotic Atlantic Salmon a few years later. the verge of developing into a major “The end result is that we produce fish Greg’s main aquaculture and fish growing growth area and investment opportunity. with a slightly firmer body tone and a base is at Rubicon near Alexandra in The Strategy aims for Victoria to triple its low fat level which more closely resembles Victoria. He has other farms at Monbulk production by the year 2001. wild salmon,” he said. and Kallista. Aquaculture offers many benefits to the Yarra Valley Salmon’s most popular fresh Greg produces 50 tonnes of fish each year. landcare community. It can provide a fish are the “baby” Atlantic Salmon ranging Most of the caviar is absorbed by domestic profitable and diverse use of water on the from 300 - 400 grams which mostly go to markets but because of the purity of the farm. Sydney’s restaurants via the Sydney Fish production process, the products are Market. The farm also produces a small Luscious caviar from Yarra Valley Salmon highly sought after by overseas countries, quantity of two to four kilogram fish which particularly Patience and absolute dedication have are sold in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide Japan. been the keys to success for Greg and Brisbane. Wallace’s business, Yarra Valley Salmon.

Greg Wallace displays his produce. His farm tries to replicate the natural environment of the Atlantic Salmon as closely as possible.

Victorian Landcare Page 16 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 17 Sands Print Group a of possibilities

By Carri Tiffany and Liz Brown

“All of the product is fresh and it reaches the customer within 24 hours of it being harvested,” Greg said. Also popular and selling at $100 a kilogram retail is the Atlantic Salmon caviar which is milked by hand from the female salmon just before the natural spawning process. The hand milked roe is then cured in small batches to produce a premium caviar product. The criteria for caviar include the size and flavour of the eggs. “From our experience we have found that there is a period of approximately two weeks and this varies from one female to Part of the Yarra Valley Salmon operation at Rubicon. another, when the roe is ripe for curing into premium caviar,” Greg said. Happy fish from Pyramid Salt Gavin says he’s been playing around with brine shrimps for a couple of years and has “Apart from the normal issues related to Gavin Privett’s aquaculture business fits only been harvesting them commercially primary production of a new species, the in neatly with his primary production for five months. “The small eggs are most difficult problems Greg faced were interest:salt. Gavin is the Manager of imported from the Great Salt Lakes in the significant lead time of four years to Pyramid Salt Pty Ltd at Pyramid Hill, Utah. We hatch them out in intensive raise female salmon to a sufficient size a raw salt production facility with the tanks and feed them on ground wheat. that would produce the very large eggs capacity to produce 5,000 tonne of high The food and saline water is continually preferred in the Japanese market, together quality sodium chloride salt each year. moving through the tanks and in about with the development of a particular diet Pyramid Salt is a National finalist in the 14 days they reach full size.” that the female salmon require about six 1998 Landcare Awards. months prior to spawning,” Greg said. Saline groundwater is pumped from bores The shrimps are washed in fresh water, sieved and vacuum packed for freezing. And as for advice for those willing to and passed through a series of ponds. They are sold to other aquaculturalists venture into a different type of farming The water increases in brine density until who use them as food for small fish and he had this to say. it reaches a crystalliser pond and is harvested. Along the way brine from the also to the aquarium trade under the “Like anything that you feel is worthwhile third, saltiest pond is bypassed through a brand name “Happy Fish Brine Shrimp.” in life you have to be prepared to invest series of intensive culture tanks where the Gavin says the market for his brine five to ten years of hard work if you want brine shrimps are grown. shrimps is dependant upon a growing to produce a unique quality aquaculture industry in product and reach the point Australia or his ability to where the marketplace recognises break into exporting. the true value of that effort.” He’s not the only brine “You have to be dedicated and shrimp producer in Victoria - prepared to wait.” but certainly the only one with the luxury of free brine. For further information about aquaculture contact Anthony The brine shrimp production facility Forster at the Department of at Pyramid Salt. Natural Resources and Environment on (03) 9637 8527.

Victorian Landcare Page 17 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 18 Sands Print Group LandcaLandca By Greg Milne

A farm in the city was a great place to start and so began a Landcare group in Collingwood. The farm’s Landcare Project was one of three pioneering City Landcare projects in Melbourne that ran for two years. Now, nearly four years down the track, the farm is giving visitors a real picture of sustain- able agriculture. People have fun getting their hands dirty, learning about Landcare and improving their local environment. Field days, work- shops and family days have provided a forum for the general public to get A piece of country The Victorian era convent buildings next involved. Regular visitors, which include door take us back in time, enhancing the school groups, community service groups People love coming to the Collingwood rural atmosphere and the remnant bush and local teenagers have all been involved Children’s Farm to experience the vivid escarpment of Yarra Bend Park wraps in a variety of hands on projects. contrast to the city. There are big around the little peninsula of fertile land, The farm’s good work in involving the paddocks, bluestone barns, vegetable hiding it from suburbia. urban community in Landcare was gardens and lots of animals. The team of recently recognised. We were a state The farm is much more than a city play- staff and volunteers run a range of farming finalist in the Victorian Landcare ground for kids to come and cuddle cute enterprises on the 17 acre property beside Education awards. the Yarra river. animals. We work at connecting city peo- ple with the land, animals and natural Permaculture in practise cycles. It’s public land managed in a way As a result of the Landcare project, the Greg Milne with another friend of the farm. that invites community participation. farm has developed a management plan, And with the help of landcare and based on permaculture principles. permaculture the Farm is becoming a It has proved to be a great asset to the unique example of sustainable landuse. farm, acting as a reference and training In the beginning... tool for staff and volunteers. The aim is to shrink water, nutrient and other resource In 1994, the Federal Government cycles to within the boundaries of the launched the City Landcare Program. farm. We do this by minimising what It was concerned that the rural comes into the farm, and re-using and enthusiasm for landcare was virtually re-cycling water and nutrients to replace unheard of by city people. With 15 years what leaves the farm. Good planning like of experience behind us, the farm was this ensures that the needs of each part of exploring ways to extend people’s interest the farm are provided by the products and in animals to caring for the land. wastes of other parts. On the ground, we are starting to reap the rewards of thoughtful planning and hard work. We are now harvesting fodder for the goats grown in pig manure and the waste water from the dairy and duck pond is irrigating the orchard. The farm is reducing its consumption of outside resources by growing and utilising more animal food on-site. Victorian Landcare Page 18 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 19 Sands Print Group carecare inin thethe citycity The landcare group The farm now holds monthly Landcare working bees where people have the A green future chance to turn landcare and permaculture The farm’s Landcare Project has been a ideas into reality. These working bees major catalyst in our search for involve people in the sustainable sustainability. It’s giving city people a real management of the farm, encourage feel for what Landcare is doing in the bush understanding of broader food, and a chance to help out. There are no sustainability and equity issues and show better places than city farms to develop people how they can be more involved at understanding between city and country the farm. The working bees are attracting and raise awareness of landcare. new people to the farm, but we could always do with more helpers. With the initial financial support from Landcare finished, the farm is planning The farm also has a Landcare Trail, the for a more independent future. The new first of our new set of tours. The Landcare management plan provides the direction Trail is an interesting walk around a for the physical development of the farm, The farm’s community garden. number of sites at the farm, each with the Landcare Trail will be an important their own stories and activities about Simple lids on the chook feeders have part of our educational approach, and we sustainable farming. Learn about bush restricted ad-lib feeding and encouraged are encouraging wider community input tucker, harvesting tree fodder for the more active foraging. Ask a visitor who has into our Landcare group. had a sandwich pecked out of their hand! goats, farming trees, creating habitat for native animals and re-cycling nutrients Collingwood Children’s Farm is at St Coppicing ash, willow and poplar have and waste. Helliers Road, Abbotsford. For bookings provided a healthy diet for the goats, and enquiries phone (03) 9205 5469. reduced our feed bill and their spread as An information kit is available for the trail environmental weeds along the river. which summarises the key concepts and Photographs by Carri Tiffany includes follow up actions and activities. The sheep, cows and goats all make the The kit is designed for middle to upper most of the tree lucerne planted around primary age students but the Landcare the edge of our plantations. A solar-pow- Trail can be tailored to ered electric fence has enabled us to use many different age pig ploughing to grow annual crops. groups and interests. All these changes reduce pollution, make the farm more self - sufficient, and create a healthier environment.

The farm is nestled in bushland along the Yarra River at Abbotsford

Victorian Landcare Page 19 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 20 Sands Print Group What’s for dinner? By Darren Peacock - Senior Curator of Museum of Victoria

Future Harvest, a new exhibition All of the regional components will be produced by the Museum of Victoria, brought together for display at the Royal will tour Victoria in 1998. Melbourne Show in September. Future Harvest will then be on display at The exhibition explores the future of Scienceworks Museum in Spotswood until farming and food through the issues of Moreover, it provides an opportunity for April, 1999. innovation and sustainability. rural communities to promote local Sustainability is about maximising The case studies show how diversification, initiatives to urban audiences unfamiliar productivity without degrading the new technology, organic and permaculture with the issue of land degradation. environment. Using inspiring case studies methods, revegetation and investments in The Future Harvest art competition will from across Victoria, Future Harvest will water quality are improving farm be run in conjunction with the exhibition show how farmers, companies and productivity and profitability, as well as by the Royal Agricultural Society of community groups are taking up the restoring degraded farming land. Victoria and the Weekly Times newspaper. challenge of sustainability in the way they They include stories from the Undera School children will be encouraged to manage the land. Landcare group near Shepparton and the create, in visual form, their own vision of Upper Murray Catchment Farm Tree Future Harvest is an opportunity to the future of food and farming. Group in the Corryong area. showcase successful attempts to tackle the Competition entries will be on display at problem of land degradation and establish Also featured are the Crawford family each of the venues. Statewide prizes will more sustainable farming practices. from Gippsland, innovators in be awarded at the Royal Melbourne Show. agroforestry. Winners of a 1992 National The exhibition will be launched in The competition is just one of the ways in Tree Farmer Award, the Crawfords Gippsland in March, 1998, before which regional communities can make complement their beef cattle operation travelling to Ballarat, Shepparton, their own contributions to Future Harvest. with a native revegetation program and a Mildura and Wodonga. Each of these Local working groups have been formed in sideline in timber growing: pine for paper venues will feature three local case studies each of the regional centres to promote and willow for future cricket bats. of innovative responses to the challenge community participation and public of sustainability. The Giant Gippsland earthworm features events to coincide with Future Harvest. in the story of a dairy farm operated by To get involved in the regional exhibitions Brian and Cheryl Enbom at Korumburra. please contact one of the following: Revegetation of streambanks on their property preserves the habitat of the earth- worm, an endangered species. In turn, Gippsland: the worm provides a unusual form of Geoff Hill (03) 5173 1462 pasture improvement, aerating the Ballarat: soil as it burrows underground. Geoff Park (03) 5345 2200 Future Harvest will encourage Shepparton: school groups to explore the Liz Dobson (03) 5832 9849 connections between farming and the Mildura: environment in their Ray Campling (03) 5021 9149 local area. Wodonga: Cheryl Howell (02) 6055 9200

For general enquires about the exhi- bition call Darren Peacock, Museum of Victoria, (03) 9291 2124.

Victorian Landcare Page 20 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 21 Sands Print Group HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 22 Sands Print Group

Greening Geelong West: restoring Landcare and L indigenous vegetation in an urban community along Geelong’s foreshore. He advises landcare groups to be aware By Carri Tiffany that communicating with local councils can mean more than just speaking with a councillor. “It may involve officer contact Landcare and local government have at a number of different levels until you much in common. They are both about develop the right relationships.” community, about local level improvements and future planning. But for many years local Greater Geelong, a mix of city and country governments have been reluctant to get The City of Greater Geelong’s involvement involved in landcare. A rural shire engineer with landcare really took off when they once told me that admitting the reality of appointed their own Landcare Officer. the salinity problem in his area would mean Gavan Mathieson sees himself as a ‘hunter an instant devaluing of land prices - a risk and collector’ for the 11 landcare groups the council couldn’t afford to take. within the City. He also works closely with There has also been the lengthy process of industry, helping to link them up with local government amalgamations. groups and projects. With many councils so closely involved Serrated Tussock is a big local problem, in re-writing their municipal planning along with Chilean Needle Grass and schemes they’ve had little time for forging Patterson’s Curse. The Council is targeting relationships with landcare groups. small property holders, offering to meet up But things are changing. Peter Lyon, to 50% of the cost of weed control. Property Environment Resource Officer with the holders who have completed a property Municipal Association of Victoria says management plan, attended training sessions Councils are becoming increasingly aware and are members of a landcare group will of the advantages of becoming involved in receive the maximum entitlement. landcare, as the landcare movement itself Much of Gavan Mathieson’s work is with gains in recognition and stature. schools. He assists with the Corangamite Peter points out that catchment Waterwatch Program and with running management structures have also been special activities like Arbor Week where changing and that Councils must take an over 50 schools will participate in active role in working with their regional revegetation projects. Catchment Management Authority Gavan says there are many challenges. (CMA). He says it’s a two way process: His time is divided between supporting the “CMA’s need to use the skills and data local groups and also trying to give the large collected and ‘owned’ at a local level.” urban population a “taste of landcare.” Peter says that Local Conservation Strategies Casey fights Alligator Weed form the basis of council involvement in landcare. And that many of these are now The City of Casey became involved in being updated and re-written to include landcare because of a serious weed threat. information about salinity, soil erosion, weeds According to researcher, Dr Lalith and other landcare issues. Gunasekera, Alligator Weed is one of the worst weeds in the world and 125 infestations of it have been found throughout the City of Casey. Alligator Weed is a cultural as well as an environmental issue.

Members of the Casey Aquatic Weed Community Action Group plan their cam- paign against Alligator Weed. Victorian Landcare Page 22 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 23 Sands Print Group d Local Government The weed is being spread unwittingly by David Westlake is enthusiastic about their Greater Bendigo promotes perennial pastures the City of Casey’s Sri Lankan community chances of controlling the weed. But he doesn’t The City of Greater Bendigo has been who grow it as vegetable plant which is down play the seriousness of the problem. offering a Salinity Rate Rebate Scheme cooked and eaten with rice. The weed “Alligator Weed spreads like wildfire. A piece of since 1994. The rebate scheme was quickly spreads along rivers and leaf or root can travel for miles and miles down introduced in recognition of the watercourses infesting and choking them. a stream or river.” seriousness of salinity in the area. David Westlake from the City of Casey David took a small piece of stem home By offering a rate rebate on land that is says that local government was the right and put it in a jam jar of water. Now he taken out of production, the scheme agency to tackle the weed as it is a local has a big healthy plant with six roots. encourages landholders to revegetate high and community type problem. “Our first Mitchell acts on weeds recharge areas that contribute significantly task was to convene a working group. to increasing dryland salinity. We call it The Casey Aquatic Weed Mitchell Shire Council services 27,000 The rebate specifies the area must be an Community Action Group, it’s made up people around Kilmore, Broadford and identified high recharge area and that it of scientists, members of the Sri Lankan Seymour. In August 1997, it introduced must be revegetated with trees or community and City of Casey Officers.” its first land management policy to perennial pastures. The sites are inspected encourage residents to confront land A $12,500 grant under the Victorian by the Department of Natural Resources degradation problems. Government’s Community Weed Control and Environment. Scheme has helped the group get under The policy identifies issues like salinity, Greater Bendigo has many other landcare away. Their first task has been to identify erosion, pest plants and animals. It provides projects underway. Their Community the sites of infestation. Now they are visit- for a 10% rate rebate for eligible Environmental Officer, Anthony Sheean, ing each site and discussing control with landholders doing ‘targeted works.’ In the co-ordinates Waterwatch and Saltwatch, the landowners. The group will also grow first year, council is targeting weeds and manages a $20,000 environmental grant Mukunuwenna, an alternative Sri Lankan has identified target species in order to scheme and participates in the vegetable to offer to people as a co-ordinate efforts across the region. Rural/Urban Links Program. replacement plant. According to Ian Haynes, Group Manager of Corporate Services at Mitchell Shire Council the Campaspe wins rebate has been very well received by residents. Landcare Award “The paperwork is kept to The Shire of Campaspe’s commitment to a minimum and those landcare won them the 1997 Telstra property owners who Landcare Local Government Award. regularly undertake envi- In 1996, the Shire initiated a Community ronmental enhancement Grants Program for Landcare Groups and works will not need to do has given $40,000 in funding to 12 groups. anything extra to get the It also helps groups with photocopying and rebate.” provides office accommodation for a local Ian Haynes says the Salinity Link Officer. Council’s policy is Campaspe operates a free tree scheme, designed to complement encourages wholefarm planning through its the initiatives being taken planning controls, facilitates the Community by the State Government Surface Drainage Scheme, and has trained in controlling weeds its outdoor staff in roadside management. throughout Victoria.

The Landcare Magazine would like to run regular articles about local council involvement The City of Greater Geelong with landcare. Please send us your news and assists in running photographs. the Waterwatch program at local schools.

Victorian Landcare Page 23 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 24 Sands Print Group Destroying the secret a Gazing round at the treeless, tussock- $1 million offensive covered walls of the Rowsley Valley, David As the executive officer of the Victorian Boyle describes Serrated Tussock as “the Serrated Tussock Working Party, David secret agent of weeds,” a weed so Boyle is in charge of a $1 million offensive innocuous-looking, yet so insidious that it to be mounted against the weed. has the ability to largely replace pasture Funded by the Victorian Government and species without a landholder knowing - jointly co-ordinated by the Corangamite until it is too late. Catchment Management Authority Similar in appearance to the native Silver and Port Phillip Catchment and Land Tussock, a paddock of Serrated Tussock Protection Board. Working Party members exhibits one fatal flaw: it is useless to directing the offensive also include stock. Even if they do in desperation graze representatives from landcare, local this South American import, sheep and government and the community. cattle will still die of starvation. Serrated Chairman of the Working Party and Tussock has only a four per cent nutrient president of Corio Landcare Group, level - well below the threshold for Scott Chirnside believes that the weed Similar looking to the Native Silver Tussock, livestock to survive. the Serrated Tussock’s major differences are initiative will focus attention on what that it is useless for stock and has a The costs of failure to contain and then he describes as “the biggest potential distinctive seed head. eliminate Serrated Tussock are high. landcare issue bar none.” An economic analysis undertaken by the Today, an estimated 131,400 ha of land A descendant of one of Victoria’s pioneering Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party within the Melbourne-Ballan-Geelong graziers, Scott farms 3,000 ha under the estimates that without control measures axis is infested with Serrated Tussock. You Yangs, directly in the flight path of the area infested by Serrated Tussock can Serrated Tussock seeds in spring time. be expected to increase two and a half One weakness only times over the next 30 years with net “Until the late ‘80s, I’d only noticed one Serrated Tussock has one weakness, said annual losses to primary production or two, then suddenly I had an explosion Lisa Miller, a Serrated Tussock researcher totalling $298 million. on my hands,” Scott recalled. and extension adviser who operates out of the Geelong office of the Department of Just north west of Bacchus March, almost all First discovered in a paddock behind a Natural Resources and Environment. of the Rowsley Valley’s 24,000 ha are heavily butcher’s shop at Broadmeadows in the infested with Serrated Tussock. “This is the 1940s, Serrated Tussock spread into the “It has very low seedling vigour and is motherlode,” David said, gesturing down the Melton area as it was broken up for urban initially slow growing,” she pointed out. valley. “This is where we have to fight and development, then colonised much of the “You can outcompete Serrated Tussock beat Serrated Tussock if we are to stop it non-arable rain shadow country around seedlings with improved pasture.” spreading through 4.6 million ha of farmland Bacchus Marsh. By 1984, it had built to a That’s the good news, but then she adds: to the north and west.” critical mass, heavily infesting some 30,000 “No amount of pasture competition will, ha. Seed heads in their millions began however, kill mature plants.” journeying on prevailing winds heading Trials have found phalaris and clovers are north-east during spring and south in best at crowding out Serrated Tussock summer. Each seed head carries up to The Serrated Tussock-covered seedlings. One of the few places Serrated walls of the Rowsley Valley. 100,000 seeds and can travel up to 50 km. Tussock is absent in the Rowsley Valley are on the rich flats on either side of the Parwan Creek. But once Serrated Tussock gains a foothold, it moves inexorably taking over from other pastures. Stock and even rabbits avoid it, accelerating the advance. Within seven to ten years a lightly infested paddock is transformed to a sea of Serrated Tussock.

Victorian Landcare Page 24 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 25 Sands Print Group t agent of weeds Serrated Tussock germinates on bare coupled with changes in ground establishing quickest in autumn farming practices such as By Gib Wettenhall when pastures are weakest. The most incorporating cropping dramatic expansion of the weed’s regimes as well as pasture boundaries and density took place after improvement. the 1982/83 drought. “Department staff have With this year’s El Nino showing no signs visited all 80 farmers in the of moderating, Scott Chirnside believes Rowsley Valley and set up the scene is set for another break out of management plans for each Serrated Tussock from its core area. of the properties,” David “I’ve got rainfall records for our property Boyle said. To ensure going back 120 years,” he said. “It looks like compliance the Working we’re facing the worst El Nino event ever.” Party has already recruited Control measures two enforcement officers and another six are Phase 1 of the Serrated Tussock Working scheduled to commence Party’s new management strategy is to stop by early 1998. seed setting in the weed’s core areas. On grazing land unsuitable In the Rowsley Valley, a helicopter will for cropping, the Working this summer spray the heavily infested Party is pursuing other valley walls with a sub-lethal dose of strategies to outcompete glysophate which freezes seed set. This the weed. Aerial sowing of will be followed up in winter by burning phalaris on a trial plot with the tussocks. a 475 mm rainfall has met “It won’t kill the plant,” David Boyle said, with “moderate success” “but the green stubble which comes up claimed Scott Chirnside. after burning won’t have any seed. People Other trials involve outside the area will gain a respite.” utilising free range pigs to lift soil fertility, looking at With only a thin, infertile soil cover and ways of improving the a white clay sub-surface, the valley walls weed’s palatability, species are not suitable for pasture improvement. testing for tree and pasture Instead, the strategy chosen to planting, and a search for outcompete Serrated Tussock is biological controls. reafforestation. “We have to take a lateral “Last century, the valley’s sides were approach to find solutions,” clothed in trees,” David said. “We’re Scott said. “And we have to going to put them back.” combine this with a systems Lisa Miller is growing trial plots of approach which is capable indigenous eucalypts, acacias and shrubs of delivering more sustain- to determine which are best suited to the able forms of agriculture.” site. Once the trees are in place, a final spray with Frenock will kill the Serrated Chairman of the Victorian Tussocks. Serrated Tussock Working Party and President of the Systems approach Corio Landcare Group, Scott Chirnside inspects the The Working Party’s management strategy rate of growth of a trial recognises that to control Serrated plot of aerially-sown Tussock in the long term, there needs to Phalaris-one of the pasture plants best able to outcompete be an education and awareness campaign Serrated Tussock.

Victorian Landcare Page 25 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 26 Sands Print Group CATCHMENT M A

October saw the end of the first term of ‘Caring for Landcare in Victoria’ and the Victorian Catchment and Land ‘Know Your Catchments’, Victoria’s first Protection Council. catchment condition report, a project headed up by Council and supported by a The council, now known as the Victorian team of specialists from the Department Catchment Management Council advises of Natural Resources and Environment the State Government on Statewide and Environment Protection Authority. catchment management priorities and Above: Chairman Mr Jeremy Gaylard, re-appointed to the the condition of land and water resources. Mrs Tehan also welcomed new Council new Council It is also Victoria’s peak body on landcare. members: the former Member for Narracan and former Speaker of the House of With the departure of five former Assembly in the Victorian Parliament, members and the addition of three new Mr John Delzoppo of Neerim South; members, the Council becomes a leaner community-based sustainable agriculturalist group of eleven. and farmer, Mrs Faye Holt of Wedderburn; Chairman Mr Jeremy Gaylard, also and waterway management expert, Chairman of the Melbourne Market Mr John Tilleard of Sale. Authority, has been reappointed Council has now commenced its second Chairman for another three-year term. term and is committed to pursuing many Minister for Conservation and Land of the important initiatives it commenced Management, Mrs Marie Tehan, thanked in its first term including the former councillors for their work: implementation of recommendations in primary producer and dairy industry the Landcare report through Victoria’s exporter, Mr Ian Wood; Mr David Clark Catchment Management Authorities. (North Central CMA); Mrs Joan Bennett Council has also undertaken to intensify its (Wimmera CMA), Mr Ian Everist, Mr Statewide communications and raise the Angus Pollock (now Chairman of the level of co-operation and understanding Private Forestry Council) and Professor between bodies involved in catchment Robert White of Melbourne University. management. The forum of NGOs and the Many initiatives were undertaken in the first catchment management conference in first life of Council including a report into May 1998 are important commitments for the strategic support needs of Landcare, the coming year. News from the Regions Corangamite East Gippsland Don Forsyth is the Authority’s new Chief Chris Barry has been appointed CEO with Executive Officer (CEO). Chairman Bob Linda Youngs as Executive Assistant. Carraill said that Don would settle quickly Both had previously worked for the CaLP to the new role having been Executive Board. Officer of the former Catchment and Land Protection (CaLP) Board. Representatives of the Authority recently inspected a range of landcare sites and Imminent appointments include an projects during a review held in the region of executive support officer and a floodplain previous National Landcare Program projects. management officer to develop a regional floodplain strategy. Authority chairman, Duncan Malcolm, said the quality of the projects was The Authority has also appointed two Above - from top: New members excellent and congratulated Landcare of the Victorian Catchment program managers to oversee implementa- Group members, River Management Management Council, tion of its regional catchment strategy and Mr John Delzoppo, Mr John Groups and Landcare co-ordinators who will produce directions and priorities for Tilleard and Mrs Faye Holt. assisted in mounting the review. its implementation in the new year.

Victorian Landcare Page 26 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 27 Sands Print Group M ANAGEMENT NEWS

Glenelg-Hopkins North Central West Gippsland Colin Dunkley, former executive officer of Former Campaspe Shire General Manager Ken Ashton has been appointed CEO. the CaLP Board, has been appointed CEO Strategy and Planning, Jan Boynton, is Ken has more than 27 years’ experience in for this catchment region. the new CEO. land and water management complemented Cate Mercer-Grant has been appointed Chairman, Drew English, said that Jan by his senior management experience and Executive Assistant. came to the job with a solid understanding strong administrative skills. of catchment issues and a good knowledge The Authority has recently been linked of the north central region. Wimmera with Landcare groups and associations in Former CaLP Board Executive Officer, the region including the associations of The Authority is undertaking a consulta- John Young, has been appointed CEO. Dundas Tablelands, Glenthompson and tion process with catchment stakeholders Central Hopkins. to encourage debate and input to a new As well, the Authority has commenced catchment structure. A discussion paper establishing its implementation A Landcare sub-committee has also been has been released outlining its guiding committees. Waterways, Land and established by the Authority and forums principles including the establishment of Biodiversity committees will address are being planned in the new year on four implementation committees (one for issues and develop the works program landcare and waterways. each river catchment) and that linkages for implementation of the regional Goulburn-Broken with landcare groups be strengthened. catchment strategy. Bill O’Kane, former CaLP Board Executive North East The Authority has also held a forum for Officer, has been appointed CEO. regional business and community people John Riddiford has been appointed CEO. to meet and exchange information and The Authority was recently pleased to John comes to the Authority with 13 years’ ideas. Two dinner forums in August and receive notification of the allocation of experience in natural resource management, October were well attended. $90,000 to 34 salinity projects in the 11 of those in the water industry. He was region under the Community Salinity An economic perspective for the region responsible within Melbourne Water for Grants Scheme. The scheme plays an has been developed and was launched in catchment management, water quality integral role in increasing awareness of late January. This is the first stage of a improvement programs and strategy salinity issues and increasing works to regional sustainable development plan. planning for water supply. combat the problem. He is keen to continue and initiate pro- Port Phillip This year, the scheme attracted a large grams to reverse land degradation and Board members have been re-appointed number of innovative projects aimed at improve water quality in the region. by the Minister to 30 June 1998, and raising awareness and behaviour change. Executive Officer Bill Thomas will Successful projects included the Goulburn Mallee continue for the same period. Valley Landcare network’s bus tour to raise The Authority has appointed Scott Glyde A review of catchment management in awareness of irrigation farmers of salinity CEO. the Port Phillip and Westernport Region in the upper catchment and its Landcare activities will form a major will be undertaken during 1997/98. effect on the Shepparton component of the Authority’s activities. Irrigation Region. The Board has recently appointed a Accordingly, it has resolved to support catchment implementation committee Mallee landcare groups including by in each of its five major catchments. developing a database of all community These committees are assisting with the groups involved in land and water manage- implementation of the regional catchment ment activities. It also aims to improve the strategy and providing coordinated advice interchange of ideas on catchment programs, projects, and and resources between identifying priorities for new funding more than 40 groups opportunities. presently operating in Landcare groups and interests are well the Mallee. represented on the committees.

Victorian Landcare Page 27 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 28 Sands Print Group ON THE SHELF - New Publications Listen...Our Land Is Crying Their latest publication, Murray-Darling Professor John Basin Resources, is no exception. The author of this very impressive book, Lovering, (left) President of the This book of annotated statistics for the Mary White, is a palaeobotanist. Murray-Darling She brings a rare geological perspective to Basin Commission Murray-Darling Basin is the first attempt the land degradation debate. Mary White with South at producing a comprehensive audit of the Australian natural, economic and human resources of says in order for us to understand land Minister for degradation problems and find long-term Environment and the region. It provides an extraordinary solutions, we need to see the big picture. Natural Resources, variety of information and is packed with David Wotton, excellent photographs and illustrations. “When Australia is seen in the global launching the context, we find that it suffers the same Murray-Darling Murray-Darling Basin Resources was Basin Resources problems as the rest of the world, created by Book. compiled by Dr Peter Crabb from the pressures of expanding human populations, Geography Department of the Australian and unsustainable use of basic resources.” Defence Force Academy. Understandably, Listen...Our Land Is Crying is available from it has taken him several years to complete. Listen...Our Land Is Crying documents the Simon and Schuster, 20 Barcoo Street, East The book is a good reference tool and geological history which has made Australia Roseville, NSW 2069. The book costs one-stop-shop for statistical information unique and enables us to understand why $59.95 plus $7.50 postage and handling. on all aspects of the Basin. using European agricultural and land-use practices and the introduction of foreign Murray-Darling Basin Resources Murray-Darling Basin Resources is plants and animals has lead to the land available from the Murray-Darling Basin The Murray Darling Basin Commission degradation we experience today. Commission on (02) 627 90100 for $35. has produced many big, colourful and A thoughtful and engrossing read. interesting books about the Basin. HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 29 Sands Print Group VFFVFF FarmFarm TreesTrees && LandcareLandcare AssociationAssociation

•• Incorporation Incorporation •• Insurance Insurance •• Group Group SupportSupport •• Lobbying Lobbying onon LandcareLandcare IssuesIssues •• Landcare Landcare magazinemagazine toto groupgroup membersmembers •• Coordinator/ Coordinator/ FacilitatorFacilitator SupportSupport •• CommunicationsCommunications SupportSupport

For more information about how the VFF Landcare section can help take the administration burden off your group contact us on 9207 5563 INCORP NO. A0011936S HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:07 AM Page 30 Sands Print Group InvestingInvesting inin LandcareLandcare

Creekline revegetated with Blue Gums

A cost benefit study in Western Australia Determining profitability •Whole catchment level - total has produced evidence that investment in expenditure and benefits calculated The study was able to determine the landcare does pay financial dividends. across all farms in the catchment. overall profitability of each farm’s landcare •Farm level - actual investment by The study was aimed at assisting farmer activities and rank each strategy on the individual farmers compared with the groups in the central wheat belt of WA to basis of profitability - despite the fact that impact on that farm only. identify, analyse and adopt land uses and the benefits of some landcare strategies are •Individual Strategic level - each conservation strategies that are not realised for several years after the project on each farm subjected to a biologically and economically sustainable. initial investment cost. cost : benefit analysis. Farmers in each catchment group If farmers know which landcare strategies The study only considered the direct provided details on what landcare projects are profitable, they can make the choice financial benefits - those activities that had been undertaken on their farms since of investing scarce resources in strategies have a direct effect on farm cash flow. their groups were formed. Their projects with the greatest pay-off. It did not consider aesthetic or were costed and opinions were obtained environmental benefits for example from the farmers about project benefits. Analysing costs and benefits stream water quality nor off-site benefits The benefits were calculated from cash In this study, the costs and benefits were such as impacts on downstream landholders flows as well as taxation benefits, assuming analysed at the following three levels: and protection of habitat reserves. 100% deductions for landcare expenditure.

Improving planning Whole catchment benefits The study analysed what landcare strategies The results of the cost benefit analysis for three catchments were as follows: the farmers in various catchment groups had already implemented and this information Catchment A Catchment B Catchment C was used to develop the techniques for Number of farms 13 14 13 assessing the benefits of landcare. Total catchment expenditure $473,0713 $450,154 $324,843 on landcare1 The major advantage in using cost benefit Total on-farm benefits $855,860 $751,217 $758,945 analysis is in determining which strategies for the catchment2 are profitable and therefore those which Cost : Benefit ratio 1.81 1.67 2.34 might be given priority. Notes: 1. The expenditure values include all grants for landcare work. 2. Farm financial benefits only. Does not include non-financial or off-farm benefits. 3. The benefit values are expressed in net present value terms, i.e. all the expected future financial benefits are discounted back to present day values.

Victorian Landcare Page 30 HTP Landcare edition 7 19/6/01 10:08 AM Page 31 Sands Print Group ee pays pays benefitsbenefits

Financial benefits to individual farms The financial benefits to farmers implementing the landcare works were found to come from three sources:

1. a reduced loss of land compared to the ‘do nothing’ approach; 2. production is maintained, and may even improve, on the land influenced by the landcare work; and, 3. a change to a farming system, for example converting low producing Drainage and fencing of creek line to control waterlogging and salinity pasture on poor, sandy land types into a tagasaste plantation as a fodder source. For example, revegetating creek lines may It could be argued that the community not be considered a rational financial should participate in this cost sharing by Profitable strategies investment when the cash flow impact direct subsidisation by Government or Data from the study produced the alone is taken into account, however through assistance by government agencies, following cost benefit ratios for various wildlife values, aesthetics and so on are seen taxation relief or environmental levies. as positive reasons for implementation. on-farm strategies: Further information on the study can be Who should pay obtained from Allan Herbert, Economics Strategy Cost : Benefit ratio Branch, Agriculture WA on Knowledge of who is benefiting from the Fodder crop (ie tagasaste) 3.1 (08) 9368 3680 or Darrel Brewin, landcare effort will help farmers and Liming for acidification 1.8 Manager of the Avon Catchment Project, communities identify who should pay for Earthworks 1.77 Agriculture WA on landcare works. Saltland revegetation 0.7 (08) 9622 6100. The cost:benefit information gleaned from Some landcare strategies were shown to this project provides a basis for rational be not as profitable from a financial debate that advocates government grants perspective, however other benefits, such and corporate sponsorships be directed to as an improved environment and landcare activities that have a high Red Knoll Creek, fenced and revegetated aesthetics, motivated farmers to community benefit and less direct implement these strategies. financial benefit to the farmer.

Victorian Landcare Page 31