Growing Through Change

GROWING THROUGH CHANGE: LANDCARE NSW in 2024

Message from Gareth Johnston, Chair of Landcare NSW:

The past year has showcased the remarkable adaptability and unwavering spirit of Landcare NSW’s network of dedicated volunteers and community leaders. A standout demonstration of this commitment has been our volunteer Board of Directors, who stepped forward to take direct management responsibility during our transition period. Their hands-on leadership and deep understanding of Landcare’s grassroots values has helped maintain organizational stability while strengthening our focus on supporting local groups.
During this time of change, our Board members have gone above and beyond their governance roles, working directly with staff and volunteers to ensure Landcare NSW continues to effectively serve its network. Their practical experience as Landcarers themselves has proved invaluable in understanding and responding to local group needs.

Our network’s achievements this year are testament to the passion and creativity of Landcare members. From restoring critical wildlife corridors to implementing sustainable farming practices, local groups have continued to transform landscapes and strengthen community ties through hands-on environmental stewardship.

Looking ahead, we’re seeing exciting opportunities emerge at the local level. Many groups are finding success through council partnerships, local business sponsorships, and community-driven initiatives. These grassroots connections are creating sustainable, long-term relationships that extend beyond funding to foster deeper community engagement and environmental outcomes.

The heart of Landcare beats strongest in our local communities – where neighbors come together to care for their shared environment. As we move forward, we encourage members to harness these local connections. Whether it’s partnering with your local council, engaging with nearby businesses, or collaborating with other community groups, your local knowledge and relationships are powerful catalysts for positive change.

The future of Landcare is bright, built on the foundation of local action and community spirit that has always defined our movement. The dedication shown by our volunteer Board in taking on additional responsibilities reflects the true Landcare spirit – stepping up when needed to ensure our vital work continues. Your commitment to environmental stewardship continues to inspire and drive positive change across NSW. Together, we’re not just maintaining our environment – we’re building stronger, more resilient communities for the future.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Landcare. Your local actions are creating lasting positive change for our environment and communities.

– Gareth Johnston, Chair Landcare NSW

2024 Board Directors - Group Photo (1) — Landcare NSW Board of Directors 2024: Bottom Left: Kathy Kelly, Gareth Johnston, Bruce Rolph, Lyn Thomson Top Left: Steve Bunnell, Liz Riley, Wayne Chaffey

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CONTRIBUTE NOW & WIN*

All Tax Deductible donations of $25 and above received for Landcare NSW from 19 November 2024 until 19 January 2025 will go in the draw to win* 1x Adult Ticket on River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporations Bila Galari tour – Forbes, NSW. Valued at $1,200/person plus gst.

Prize is to be provided by and must be redeemed directly with River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation. *Terms & Conditions Apply.

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Thanks to River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation

View details on their tours here: Bila Galari tour – Forbes, NSW.

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Terms and Conditions – Landcare NSW Donate and Win prize draw

1. The promoter of this Donate and Win prize draw is Landcare NSW (ABN:24 958 819 359) located at 7/56 Church Av, Mascot NSW 2020, hereinafter referred to as “the Promoter”.

2. Participation in this giveaway is open to individuals aged 18 years and above, who make a donation to Landcare NSW during the giveaway period. Employees and their immediate family members of Landcare NSW are not eligible to participate.

3. By entering this giveaway, participants agree to be bound by these terms and conditions.

4. Entry into the giveaway is automatic for each eligible person who makes a donation above $25 to Landcare NSW during the giveaway period. Each person will receive maximum one entry.

5. The giveaway period commences on 19/11/24 and will finish 19/01/25.

6. The prize offered in this giveaway is 1x Adult Ticket on the ‘River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation’s Bila Galari’ tour – Forbes, NSW. Valued at $1,200/person plus GST. The Promoter defers responsibility to the tour provider to delivery on above offer, and the provider reserves the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value.

7. Winners will be chosen at random at the end of January from all eligible entries received during the giveaway period. The selection of winners will be conducted by a representative of Landcare NSW.

8. The winners will be notified via email within seven (7) days after the random selection. The winners must respond to the notification email within fourteen (14) days to acknowledge acceptance of the prize. Failure to respond within the specified time may result in forfeiture of the prize and selection of an alternate winner.

9. The Promoter will make reasonable efforts to contact the winners. However, if the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim the prize within the specified time, the Promoter reserves the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and select an alternative winner.

10. The prizes are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged or redeemed for cash or any other alternative.

11. The Promoter accepts no responsibility for any entries that are incomplete, late, lost, damaged, or illegible. The Promoter shall not be liable for any failure to fulfill the prizes due to unforeseen circumstances or causes beyond its reasonable control.

12. The personal information provided by participants will be used in accordance with Landcare NSW Privacy Policy and applicable privacy laws. By entering this giveaway, participants consent to the collection, storage, and use of their personal information by the Promoter for the purposes of conducting and administering the giveaway.

13. This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, any social media platforms or third parties.

14. The decision of the Promoter in relation to any aspect of the giveaway is final and binding and no correspondence will be entered into.

15. These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia. Any disputes arising from or in connection with this giveaway shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of NSW, Australia.

16. For any queries or concerns regarding this giveaway, please contact Landcare NSW.

17. By participating in this giveaway, participants acknowledge and agree to release and hold harmless Landcare NSW, its employees, volunteers, and agents from any and all liability, claims, demands, losses, damages, or actions arising out of or in connection with their participation in the giveaway or the acceptance, possession, use, or misuse of any prize awarded.

18. Landcare NSW reserves the right to amend or modify these terms and conditions at any time without prior notice. Any changes will be effective immediately upon posting the updated terms and conditions on Landcare NSW website or other promotional platforms.

19. Landcare NSW holds no responsibility or liability after the prize has been awarded.

If any provision of these terms and conditions is deemed invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

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Greater Sydney Landcare

WildVenture Landcare for Young Adults

WildVenture creates flexible, social events that engage young people in environmental restoration, building community and empowering them to connect with nature in Sydney.

The Issue

Young people in Sydney are becoming increasingly disconnected from nature and facing issues like eco-anxiety, digital isolation, and a loss of community. Many struggle to find supportive networks, the motivation to volunteer, and events that cater to their schedules and interests, particularly when traditional Landcare commitments don’t align with their lifestyles or demographics.

The Solution

WildVenture is a dynamic program designed for young adults in Greater Sydney. It offers flexible, low-commitment events designed to foster friendships and community among environmentally-minded young people, while also delivering positive environmental outcomes.

The events invite young adults to get hands-on with activities like citizen science, bushcare, and tree planting, or to learn something new and interesting about their surroundings. Each gathering is an opportunity to engage, explore, and contribute to local environmental restoration in a way that suits their lives.

The Impact

Over the past seven months, WildVenture has hosted eight events across Sydney, attracting around 100 young volunteers to social, restorative events that allow them to connect with both nature and each other. These events have led to lasting friendships and recurring participation, as volunteers attend multiple events together, helping to establish a new community of environmentally engaged young people across Sydney.

Call to Action

WildVenture aims to expand and enhance its offerings, with more restoration-focused events and campouts that allow young people to immerse themselves in nature when they can’t commit to regular participation. To achieve this, we are seeking funding to broaden our reach across the Greater Sydney Basin, increase restoration opportunities, and improve transport options, as we’ve learned that transport barriers can limit attendance. We invite more young people to join us and help grow a vibrant, supportive environmental community in Sydney.

– Sophie Blair, Local Coordinator, Greater Sydney Landcare

This initiative made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.

Western Landcare

Soil Ya Undies

The use of the ‘Soil Ya Undies’ activity to promote soil health education in primary schools throughout Western New South Wales (NSW).

The Issue

The challenge was to create an activity that could be taken to schools as part of the Western Landcare School Education Program to highlight the importance of soil health. Living in Western NSW where our soils lack nutrients, students need to understand the importance of soil and how to keep a healthy balance. Due to the difference in climate and soils across the region we needed an activity that would be transferable across the West whilst also being hands-on, fun, and engaging to students.

The Solution

Upon hearing about the work that Dr Oliver Knox from University of New England undertook with his soil health program we created our ‘Soil Ya Undies’ for schools. Cotton and synthetic underwear were purchased and buried in the school grounds. Undies were buried for six weeks, then dug up and analysed for the condition and discussed.

Our team created two relevant worksheets relating to the burying and digging up process of the undies. The worksheets were age appropriate covering soil types, natural and synthetic fibres and improvements that could be made to the soil. This activity was highly supported by all schools that participated.

The Impact

This activity promoted the importance of soil health and its influence on sustainable agricultural practices to primary school students. It began the conversation in the classroom on how soil impacts these practices and ultimately the quality of food and fibres that we consume daily. It is important for students to understand the impact soil below the ground, has on the productivity above ground from growing fibres, feeding humans, animals, and keeping waterways healthy.

Learnings

This activity highlights the importance of healthy soil and ways to nurture this precious resource. Basic soil health education is vital to agriculture, and teaching it in primary schools can greatly benefit Landcare efforts.

– Vanessa Anderson, Local Landcare Coordinator, Western Landcare NSW

This initiative made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.

OzFish Collaboration With Landcare NSW

Restoring Fish Habitat and Waterway Health

Restoring New South Wales’ (NSW) waterways is essential to preserving fish habitats, supporting biodiversity, and fostering sustainable communities.

The Issue

NSW waterways are facing significant ecological challenges, with declining fish populations, degraded riverbanks, and diminishing in-stream habitat impacting aquatic ecosystems and recreational fishing.

Restoring these habitats is essential to protect biodiversity, improve water quality, and support fish populations. This challenge is particularly pressing as waterways across the state are subject to pollution, erosion, and habitat loss. There is a critical need to mobilise communities and empower stakeholders to work together to revitalise river ecosystems and promote sustainable fishing practices, safeguarding NSW’s natural resources for future generations.

The Solution

To tackle these challenges, Landcare NSW and OzFish have joined forces to initiate 100 partnership projects across the state, empowering grassroots Landcare groups to collaborate with recreational fishers on local fish habitat restoration projects.

These projects bring together diverse community members to actively participate in restoring riverbanks, improving waterway health, and enhancing fish habitats through strategic actions.

By combining the passion of recreational fishers with the experience of Landcare members, the projects foster a sense of shared responsibility and collective impact.

This partnership model encourages hands-on involvement and fosters community pride, resulting in stronger, healthier waterways and thriving fish habitats across NSW.

The Impact

These projects have led to the planting of tens of thousands of native trees, hundreds of in-stream habitats, and thousands of volunteers committed to waterway restoration. This large-scale effort strengthens community connections, promotes ecological sustainability, and enhances stewardship of NSW’s waterways.

Learnings

A key takeaway is the strong connection recreational fishers have to their waterways and the effectives of collaboration with Landcare NSW in driving ecological restoration. This partnership model demonstrates empowered communities can significantly impact environmental conservation.

– Ryan Lungu, Program Manager, OzFish Unlimited

This initiative made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.

Clarence Landcare

Engaging Gumbaynggirr Youth – South Grafton Dunggirr (Koalas)

Working with local primary schools to engage their Aboriginal students to gain knowledge and understanding about the local koalas.

The Issue

Clarence Landcare was contracted to engage Gumbaynggirr youth for future koala projects in the South Grafton area. The Gillwinga and St Josephs primary schools are across the road from one another and both schools regularly have koalas on their school grounds and property. The aim was to foster a relationship with the schools and their Aboriginal students for a koala education event.

The Solution

We teamed up with Michael Kennedy, Aboriginal Landcare Officer, and conducted a site visit to the area in South Grafton where there are a number of koala records. A meeting with the principal of St Josephs led to an invitation to use their school property and facilities for an event. The grant we received through the NSW Koala Strategy via Envite Environment gave us the resources we needed to implement the project.

The Impact

We organised a school event and invited Gillwinga’s Year 5 & 6 Aboriginal students and St Josephs’ 9 Aboriginal student across all year levels. In total, 31 students and 2 teachers from the schools attended the ‘The Cultural Program for Gillwinga and St Josephs Schools – Koalas in Clarence Valley’.

We held a Welcome to Country in Gumbaynggirr Language by Michael Kennedy and three koala songline stories were told. Landcare Coordinator Debbie Repschlager presented an introduction to Landcare and Junior Landcare. Senior Project Officer & Ecologist, Annette Cook, gave a koala presentation, conducted an afternoon in the field learning about koala food trees, and demonstrated how to plant a tree. It was wonderful to see enthusiastic hands shoot up in the group when asked who wanted to be involved in a Junior Ranger Koala Team.

Learnings

The inside presentation worked well to give an overview education about koalas. The outside activities after lunch were hands-on and engaging. The students learnt how to use tree features to identify koala food trees and also how to plant a tree.

– Debbie Repschlager, Local Coordinator, Clarence Landcare

This initiative made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.

Granite Borders Landcare Committee

Fire Ant Workshop

Fire ant biosecurity property management planning for risk reduction.

The Issue

Fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) can quickly degrade the ecological, productive and lifestyle benefits of our landscape. Fire ants infest around 600,000 ha in South East Queensland, close to the New South Wales (NSW) boarder, which poses an ongoing risk of new infestations in NSW.

Until recently, most of NSW has been free of fire ants. Tenterfield faces a real threat, through the transportation and movement of carrier materials, such as plants and soil, earth-moving equipment, baled, mining or quarry materials. Under escalated emergency orders, all stakeholders are encouraged to become aware of the risks, vectors for spread and best steps to take in case to limit the infestation of fire ants.

The Solution

Granite Borders Landcare Committee have been highlighting the importance of vigilance in preventing fire ant spread into our region.

In this workshop, Ian Turnbull from the Department of Primary Industries National Fire Ant Eradication Program talked to locals on fire ant ecology, behaviour, history of spread in Australia, indicators of infestation and risks for spread. Matthew Bertalli, from the New England Weeds Authority (NEWA) also elaborated the Biosecurity Act.

With input from these and other experts, participants developed Biosecurity Management Plans for their properties and places of residence. The afternoon was wrapped up with a talk and demonstration from Craig and Wendy Faulkner (ReconEco) and their Canine Detection Unit.

The Impact

Participants developed property biosecurity management plans and took home Biosecurity signs, provided by Northern Tablelands Local Land Services. These plans focused on adapting biosecurity management actions to fire ants. They also offer points for conversation starters and raising awareness at a property level.

Learnings

The value of the workshop has been recognised by Tenterfield Shire Council, who have asked Landcare to host another such workshop in Tenterfield. The workshop resulted in positive feedback and networks being fostered with Landcare and government services, including Local Land Services and NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

– Kathleen Macdonald, Local Coordinator, Granite Borders Landcare Committee

This initiative made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.

Parliamentary Friends of Landcare 2024: ’Trees in the House’ Event Case Studies

Landcare NSW is proud to co-host the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Landcare (PFL) ‘Trees in the House’ 2024 event, presenting case studies that highlight Landcare NSW’s community-led approach to natural resource management and its inclusive motto, “Landcare is for Everyone”.

Established in 2015, the PFL provides a unique platform for NSW Members of Parliament from all parties to connect with and support Landcare initiatives across both urban and rural areas. Landcare NSW, as the peak representative body, focuses on fostering sustainable farming, environmental conservation, and stronger communities, underscoring its role in building a resilient and sustainable future for the state.

Fire Ant Workshop

Granite Borders Landcare Committee hosted a fire ant biosecurity workshop in Tenterfield to address the increasing threat of fire ant infestations spreading from South East Queensland into New South Wales.

With expert guidance from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and the New England Weeds Authority, locals learned about fire ant ecology, infestation indicators, and risk mitigation strategies. Participants developed property biosecurity management plans, received biosecurity signs, and engaged in hands-on training, including a demonstration by a canine detection unit.

The success of the workshop, which fostered community awareness and inter-agency collaboration, led Tenterfield Shire Council to request future workshops to strengthen biosecurity efforts in the region.

Presenter: Granite Borders Landcare Committee

Clarence Landcare collaborated with local primary schools in South Grafton to engage Gumbaynggirr youth in koala conservation and environmental awareness.

Supported by the NSW Koala Strategy through Envite Environment, the project brought together Aboriginal students from Gillwinga and St Josephs schools – both of which regularly have koalas on their grounds – for a cultural and educational event.

With guidance from Aboriginal Landcare Officer Michael Kennedy, the students participated in a Welcome to Country, listened to koala songline stories, and enjoyed interactive presentations about koalas and Landcare. The day included hands-on outdoor activities where students learned to identify koala food trees and planted their own, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in protecting their local environment.

The students’ enthusiasm and interest in joining a Junior Ranger Koala Team underscored the event’s success in inspiring a new generation of environmental stewards.

Presenter: Michael Kennedy, Aboriginal Landcare Officer, Landcare NSW

Landcare NSW and OzFish have partnered on 100 projects across the state to address the critical ecological issues facing NSW waterways, such as declining fish populations, riverbank degradation, and habitat loss.

By uniting recreational fishers and Landcare groups, these projects promote hands-on community involvement in fish habitat restoration, including planting native trees and installing in-stream habitats. The initiative has mobilised thousands of volunteers, strengthening local ties to the environment and showcasing how collaborative efforts can drive meaningful environmental conservation.

This partnership model exemplifies how empowered communities can safeguard NSW’s waterways and promote ecological sustainability for future generations.

Presenter: Ryan Lungu, Program Manager, OzFish Unlimited

The ‘Soil Ya Undies’ activity, part of the Western Landcare School Education Program, educates primary students in Western NSW about soil health by engaging them in hands-on learning.

Inspired by work from Oliver Knox at the University of New England, the program involves burying cotton and synthetic underwear in school grounds to observe how soil affects decomposition over six weeks.

Supported by worksheets on soil types and fibre composition, the activity encourages students to discuss soil’s role in sustainable agriculture, food production, and environmental health. This fun, practical approach fosters early understanding of the vital connection between soil health and agricultural productivity.

Presenters: Associate Professor Oliver Knox, University of New England, and Vanessa Anderson, Local Landcare Coordinator Schools & Junior Landcare, Western Landcare NSW

WildVenture is a program in Greater Sydney that creates flexible, social events aimed at engaging young people in environmental restoration and building a community connected to nature.

Responding to challenges like eco-anxiety, digital isolation, and the difficulty young people face in finding supportive networks and accessible volunteer opportunities, WildVenture offers low-commitment events that allow young adults to participate in activities like citizen science, bushcare, and tree planting.

Over the past seven months, WildVenture has hosted eight events with around 100 young volunteers, fostering friendships and encouraging recurring involvement. To expand its impact, WildVenture seeks funding to increase event coverage across the Greater Sydney Basin, provide more restoration opportunities, and improve transport options, aiming to grow a vibrant environmental community for Sydney’s youth.

Presenter: Sophie Blair, Local Coordinator, Greater Sydney Landcare

Landcare Illawarra AGM 25th 26 Oct 2024 AGM 1 Walk

A Night of Connection & Reflection

Landcare Illawarra recently celebrated their 25th birthday. Like many 25-year-olds, Landcare Illawarra seemed confident, skilled, and somewhat mature…yet youthful. The celebration was held on a mild October evening at Curry’s Mountain Estate, a beautiful location and great supporter of Landcare in the Illawarra.

Attending this event was not just a trip down memory lane, reconnecting with volunteers, committee members and coordinators (past and present), it was also a reminder of the creative, resourceful and generous nature of Landcare.

The celebration included an outdoors AGM, live music, great food, a guided tour, and a photo display celebrating and remembering those who have been a part of Landcare Illawarra, including several wonderful souls who have since passed. One such soul was Mike Swanson, who exemplified the Landcare volunteer who just keeps on giving. Mike was Treasurer for Tullimbah Landcare, Landcare Illawarra, and South East Landcare, bringing commitment, patience and expertise to each of these roles.

Coordinators

In 1999, Landcare Illawarra was established, and with this their first coordinator was engaged. Alasdair Stratton was fresh-faced and eager, working with the four established Landcare groups and the Landcare Illawarra committee. Coordinators have long been a part of the Landcare infrastructure and tapestry, and play a critical role in the success of groups and networks. After 12 months in the role, Landcare Illawarra had 14 member groups spread across the Illawarra between the coast and the escarpment.

Another of Landcare Illawarra’s Coordinators, Megan Lee (previously Rowlatt), was passionate about bringing young people into Landcare, leading her to connect with Naomi Edwards from Queensland to start up a national youth-focused Landcare organisation called Intrepid Landcare (now 10 years old). The flow on effect from having secure and well supported Coordinators cannot be underestimated.

Science and Practice Leader

I was also reminded of the places where Landcare is a leader. Richard Scarborough and Anders Bofeldt will long be remembered for their passion and dedication to the woodlands and rainforests of the Illawarra, and their relentless pursuit of getting the right plant in the right place.

The Illawarra Woodlands and Rainforest Project targeted threatened ecological communities and outcomes for ecosystem integrity and restoration, anticipating changes with climate and site-specific succession. There are many plants and multi-purpose plantings across the Illawarra that are a direct result of the work from this project.

Partnerships

Stories were told from the time when Conservation Volunteers Australia were a key partner for Landcare Illawarra, offering the hosting arrangements for coordinators and providing a continuous supply of conservation volunteers to sites across the Illawarra.

Thank you Landcare Illawarra, for all the work, for a lovely evening, and for the trip down memory lane.

– Peter Pigott, NSW Landcare Program Community of Practice and Events Coordinator, Landcare NSW

Images via Landcare Illawarra and Landcare NSW

Creating Canopies’ 200,000th Tree Planting

Greg Warren MP Member for Campbelltown Turlough Guerin CEO Landcare NSW Danielle Packer Creating Canopies Project Manager Greater Sydney Landcare & volunteers 3 Greater Sydney Landcare

Landcare NSW was thrilled to join Greater Sydney Landcare, Greg Warren MP Member for Campbelltown, LNSW Board Member Steve Bunnell, and our wonderful volunteers to help plant the 200,000th tree of the Creating Canopies project since its inception in 2020.

The planting celebration took place at Campbelltown Hospital in September next to a hillside location where previous plantings were now thriving.

Creating Canopies aims to plant 300,000 native trees and shrubs across Greater Sydney by the end of 2025.

Funded by the NSW Government under the Greening our City program, this project targets Local Government Areas of Sydney with less than 30% canopy cover.

By planting native trees and shrubs, we’re not only providing shade and cooling, but also connecting habitat corridors and improving the quality of life for all residents.

If you would like to join an upcoming planting, please visit Greater Sydney Landcare’s website.

All photos by Greater Sydney Landcare.

Landcare NSW and Greater Sydney Landcare are committed to connecting people to the environment and supporting their efforts to protect, restore, and improve it. Creating Canopies is funded by the NSW Government under the Greening our City program, aiming to reduce urban heat in Greater Sydney.

Image at top: Greg Warren MP Member for Campbelltown at the Creating Canopies’ 200,000th Tree Planting

Greater Sydney Landcare staff getting ready for the planting at Campbelltown Hospital

Volunteers planting at Campbelltown Hospital with Creating Canopies

Tag: community