This month, Landcare celebrates its 30-year national anniversary.
On July 20 1989, the late former Prime Minister Bob Hawke delivered his speech to launch the national formation of the Landcare movement, an unprecedented union between farmers and conservationists to help protect the Australian landscape for future generations.
Three decades later, Landcare has evolved into a national movement of over 6,000 groups and hundreds of thousands of volunteers, all playing a central role in sustainable agricultural practices and conservation activities, while also developing and enhancing community spirit.
But with the threat of climate change, biodiversity loss and plastic pollution, it’s clear Australia needs Landcare now more than ever.
‘For 30 years, the Landcare movement has made Australia a better place by directly working with local communities to build more sustainable environments and agricultural practices,’ said Dr Adrian Zammit, CEO of Landcare NSW, ‘but we’re only getting started.’
‘It is vital that rural and urban communities continue to work together to protect natural resources and promote sustainable land management now and into the future.
‘Landcare offers every Australian the chance to make a real difference. Thousands of active Landcare groups operate across NSW, boasting tens of thousands of dedicated, passionate volunteers working together on a vast range of projects. From sustainable land use education to waterways restoration and feral pest management, the Landcare community are the leaders in this field,’ said Dr Zammit.
‘A significant project by one of our member groups – Building Bridges to Boorowa – is a unique Landcare partnership that brings together like-minded people from the city and country. For the past 20 years, Bushcare volunteers from North Sydney Council have travelled five hours to Boorowa in south-west New South Wales to spend three days assisting landholders with revegetation projects. Over the years, the tree planting partnership has seen more than 60,000 native trees, shrubs and ground covers planted on local properties. The results have helped reduce soil salinity and erosion, restored habitat, improved water quality and created wildlife corridors.’
A joint initiative between North Sydney Council, Boorowa Community Landcare Group (BCLG) and Hilltops Council, Building Bridges to Boorowa is an ambitious project which perfectly represents the heart, dedication and resilience of the Landcare ethos.
Dr Adrian Zammit and Building Bridges to Boorowa spokesperson from North Sydney Council are available for media opportunities.
Supporting Document:
Media Release – Celebrating 30 years: In 2019, NSW needs Landcare now more than ever