Tag: Landcare NSW

Landcare and Disaster Resilience

Disaster Preparedness & Resilience Through Community

We are well aware of the climate change induced challenges that we now face. Building resilience through preparedness and adaptation is something built into the DNA of Landcare.

This piece aims to offer some insight into what Landcare is already doing in relation to disasters, and that because of the Landcare ethic, the movement and the model (National Landcare Framework), Landcare continues to offer so much to disaster resilient communities and landscapes.

“I see Landcare as providing many of the ingredients that support individuals and communities in challenging times,” Peter Pigott, Community of Practice and Events Coordinator at Landcare NSW reflected after attending the 2024 Australian Disaster Resilience Conference in Sydney.

“Placemaking, landscape preparedness, and connection within community and to landscapes are all critical to disaster resilience. There is increasing research linking the strength of social capital and what is known as ‘social infrastructure’ to better outcomes in and following disaster.”

Landcare groups and networks are placemakers—bringing the community together to co-create a renewed sense of place, identity, and connection to the land. Daniel Aldrich’s findings on social infrastructure and disaster resilience highlight that the communities with strong pre-existing ties and collective involvement in land management were more resilient in the aftermath of the fires.

Landcare also plays a key role in disaster preparedness. The focus on proactive environmental care and sustainable land management practices, such as revegetation, erosion control, and fire management, helps communities mitigate the risks of future natural disasters. Communities involved in Landcare projects are not only better connected, but also more knowledgeable about their local environment, which enhances their capacity to anticipate and respond to future threats.

Landcare NSW’s People Led Prevention Project, funded through the NSW and Australian Government Disaster Risk Reduction Fund, has worked with Landcare communities across NSW to build knowledge and capability for disaster preparedness and nature-based solutions to mitigate hazard risks.  This project leaves a legacy of resources for communities to tap into as they explore what it means to be prepared.

There is an increasing number of Landcare partnerships with First Nations communities, sharing practices of cultural fire that have a tangible impact on fuel loads and build positive relationships in community.

In the aftermath of disasters, rebuilding the social fabric of communities is as crucial as restoring physical infrastructure (Stilger B, 2017). Following the 2019-2020 fires and 2022 floods across many parts of the state, numerous Landcare groups across NSW mobilised to restore the natural landscape and help rebuild the social fabric of fire-affected and flood-affected communities.

“A new Landcare group is forming following devastating flash flooding in the town of Eugowra in the Lachlan Valley in the Central Tablelands region of NSW,” Peter recounts following a conversation with a Local Landcare Coordinator.

“In a town where 80% of homes and businesses were damaged, the formation of the new group and the support from the Landcare Coordinator is contributing directly to disaster recovery.  Getting together to have a little fun is one of the activities of this Landcare group and might be one of the most important aspects of their Landcare work at this time.”

There are times in community where we just need to be able to get together and enjoy being with one another. Landcare does this too. Community events centred around a shared task, good food and an element of fun are such important parts of the wellbeing of the Landcare group and have deeper impacts in the context of disaster resilience.

Dr. Rob Gordon, a psychologist specialising in disaster and recovery, highlights the crucial role of community and social connection in the healing process after disasters. He argues that psychological recovery is deeply intertwined with social recovery, as people often process their trauma and grief through community support and shared experiences. Landcare’s collective environmental action aids both ecological and psychological recovery. The meaningful, shared work aspect of Landcare provides a framework for social healing.

In 2024 the Sydney Environment Institute explored how self-organising systems like community Landcare groups and networks can be supported to build long term resilience (Webster et al.,2024) and offer us encouragement, recommending: 

  • Advocating for robust support mechanisms for self-organised community networks to enhance their disaster response capabilities and overall resilience. 
  • Emphasising the promotion of social cohesion within communities to cultivate a culture of collaboration and mutual support during times of crisis. 
  • Urgently addressing the challenges posed by climate change to mitigate future disaster risks and build sustainable, long-term resilience within communities. 

The future we face is one that we need to be prepared for. We know that being connected to each other, to community and care, to place, and to nature is part of being prepared in a way that will minimise the impacts of disasters on us and on Country. Landcare does this well. What is possible when we embrace our role as a key ingredient in building disaster resilient communities and landscapes?

Landcare NSW Natural Disaster resources are located here.

 

References: 

Aldrich, D. P. (2012). Building Resilience: Social Capital in Post-Disaster Recovery. University of Chicago Press. 

Webster, S., Pittaway, E., Gillies-Palmer, Z., Schlosberg, D., Matous, P., Longman, J., Howard, A., Bailie, J., Viney, G., Verlie, B., Celermajer, D., Naderpajouh, N., Rawsthorne, M., Joseph, P., Iveson, K. and Troy, J. (2024) Empowering Communities, Harnessing Local Knowledges: Self-Organising Systems for Disaster Risk Reduction (April 2024). Sydney Environment Institute. 

Gordon, R. (2004). The social system as a site of disaster trauma. Australian Journal of Emergency Management, 19(4), 16-22. 

Silberberg, S., Lorah, K., Disbrow, R., & Muessig, A. (2013). Places in the Making: How Placemaking Builds Places and Communities. MIT Department of Urban Studies and Planning. 

 

Leadership Announcement for Landcare NSW

Announcement: Leadership changes at Landcare NSW

“Dear Landcare NSW Community,

I hope this message finds you well and as Chair of the Board, I wish to share this important news regarding our leadership at Landcare NSW.

As of Thursday 19th September, Turlough Guerin has resigned from his position as CEO of Landcare NSW to explore new opportunities and interests. He has led the organisation for just under 3 years through significant change, and the Board sincerely thank him for his substantial dedication, constant energy and notable achievements that have strengthened Landcare at all levels.

Turlough joined Landcare at a time of transition and used his extensive corporate, community service and government experiences to transform many aspects of Landcare in parallel with the Board’s governance and constitutional reforms. His strengths are many and his mix of technical, entrepreneurial and leadership skills have made a real difference.

Turlough’s dedication and leadership have significantly strengthened our organisation, helping us to more than double our funding from the government to nearly $60 million. This achievement enables us to expand our programs and enhance support for local Landcare groups throughout New South Wales.

Turlough also secured a second round of funding for both the Private Land Conservation Program, in partnership with the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust, and the Creating Canopies program funded by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

These initiatives are delivering tangible benefits to our communities and the environment, fostering resilience and stewardship across the region. Additionally, Turlough has been instrumental in diversifying Landcare activities, particularly in disaster preparedness, ensuring our community is well-equipped to respond to environmental challenges. His efforts have broadened our funding base and increased the value Landcare NSW provides to the NSW Government and the opportunities for us to keep making a difference.

As we move into the implementation phase of the Landcare Enabling Program, we recognise that this is the right time for Turlough to transition. His achievements have set a solid foundation for our future endeavours. We are committed to building on this momentum to strengthen the organisation and enhance our impact.

The Board is actively working on a transition plan and will keep you updated as we progress. In the meantime, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have during this period.

We are optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead for Landcare NSW and are confident that together, we will continue to make a meaningful difference.

Let’s continue to support one another during this transition period as we look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead.

Please join me in expressing our gratitude to Turlough for his significant contributions and in wishing him the very best in his future endeavours.” Gareth Johnston, Chair – Landcare NSW.

Former Landcare NSW CEO, Turlough Guerin

LANDCARE NSW SEEKS INDIGENOUS LEADER FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ARE YOU AN INDIGENOUS LEADER?

The Nominations Committee are now seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for Independent Director role.

 

The Nominations Committee are now seeking applications from people of Aboriginal &/or Torres Strait Islander background who are interested in joining the Board of Landcare NSW, the peak body for Landcare in the state.

Landcare NSW is committed to increase opportunities to consciously develop stronger connections and partnerships between Landcare groups and Aboriginal Communities.

“Indigenous leadership and cultural guidance will make an invaluable contribution to Landcare NSW’s governance, which will lead to enhanced connections between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the Landcare community across the state of New South Wales,” said Stephanie Cameron (former Landcare NSW Chair of the Board)

The Independent Director roles are to bring additional skill, expertise and experience to the Board, with this role specifically dedicated to a representative of Aboriginal &/or Torres Strait Islander background to bring a cultural lens to the Landcare NSW Board.

Nominations will be open to Aboriginal &/or Torres Strait Islander individuals who wish to lodge an Expression of Interest.

As this position needs to be filled as soon as possible and is currently a ‘Casual Vacancy’, all expressions of interest will be reviewed and assessed by the Nominations Committee as received. This committee will also conduct the interview and probity checks, with formal appointment to fill the position by the Board of Directors at one of the next Board meetings.

If you have any questions please get in touch with Nominations Committee Chair – Steve Bunnell via email: election@landcarensw.org.au

If you wish to send an expression of interest, you can do so by filling out the Expression of Interest Form, and sending through to election@landcarensw.org.au

 

FIND OUT MORE

Join Our 200k Tree Planting Celebration!

A Milestone Event

On Saturday 14 September 2024, join Greater Sydney Landcare and Landcare NSW at Campbelltown Hospital to help us plant the 200,000th tree of the Creating Canopies project.

It will be a fun day of community, celebration, and environmental action.

Launched in 2020, Creating Canopies, funded by the NSW Government under the Greening our City program, aims to plant 300,000 native trees and shrubs across Greater Sydney by the end of 2025.

And we need your help!

Creating Canopies Volunteers Planting with GSL

Event Highlights:

Help celebrate the 200,000th tree planting of the Creating Canopies project: By being a part of this very important milestone, you’ll be helping reduce urban heat while creating valuable habitats for local wildlife.

Fun for All Ages: No experience necessary. We provide gardening gloves, tools, and training. Bring your family and friends for a day of hands-on planting.

Free Lunch and Entertainment: Enjoy a delicious sausage sizzle lunch on us. Plus, there’ll be a giveaway of native plant seeds, prizes, and a Campbelltown Koalas Talk.

Why Attend?

Trees are a vital part of creating a resilient, sustainable, and vibrant Sydney.

Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) Executive Director Resilience and Sustainability, Steve Hartley said:

“Tree planting projects are a great way to engage with other people in your community and make a tangible difference to your local environment. Tree plantings are an investment in the health of the community and an opportunity for locals to connect with and enjoy the benefits of nature in urban spaces.”

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, 14 September 2024
Time: 9 am to 2 pm (may finish earlier – arrive at 9 am so you don’t miss out)
Location: Campbelltown Hospital, Therry Road, Campbelltown NSW 2560
Cost: FREE
What to Wear: Closed sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and long pants
What to Bring: A drink bottle of water, hat, and sunscreen

Greater Sydney Landcare Tree Planting volunteer

Register Now: Secure your spot at this tree planting. It will be a fun morning of community spirit and environmental stewardship.

Register today on Greater Sydney Landcare’s Eventbrite page.

Greater Sydney Landcare Creating Canopies logo

Landcare Broken Hill project gives hope

The Imperial Lakes Nature Park is slowly taking shape with help from volunteers and the group from Broken Hill Corrections. (ABC Broken Hill: Oliver Brown)

The Restoration of Imperial Lakes

Landcare NSW was thrilled to see ABC Broken Hill publish an article authored by Oliver Brown about the Imperial Lakes site restoration being undertaken by inmates of the Broken Hill Correctional Centre via a partnership between Landcare Broken Hill and Corrective Services NSW, and the positive impact for all involved.

“The early days of that restoration were “daunting”, according to Landcare ranger David Elston.

Volunteers could not tackle the magnitude of the clean-up alone, they needed backup.

That help came in the form of Andrew and six other men from the prison, who volunteered for the project.”

It was wonderful to hear Andrew talk to the program helping him nurture his connection to country and culture.

Professor Bartels, a board director at the Justice Reform Initiative, said programs such as this had the potential to play an important role in helping people in the final stages of their sentence reintegrate into society.

We highly recommend reading the full article here.

A heartfelt well done to all involved with the program.

Broken Hill Corrections functional manager Daniel Drury and Broken Hill Landcare ranger David Elston are both excited about the partnership. (ABC Broken Hill: Oliver Brown)

Strengthening Governance

Landcare NSW’s Commitment to Risk Management

Landcare NSW is proud to announce a significant milestone in our journey toward enhanced governance: the introduction of our Risk Appetite Statement. This strategic initiative reflects our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in managing the various risks we encounter, ensuring we remain aligned with our mission of supporting local communities and environments to flourish. 

Our Risk Appetite Statement, as outlined in the recent board meeting, is a comprehensive framework that defines the levels of risk we are prepared to undertake in pursuit of our strategic objectives. It aligns with the principles emphasized by the Governance Institute of Australia and the Australian Institute of Company Directors, integrating recognised governance standards into our organisational practices. By clearly defining our risk thresholds, we can confidently pursue innovative initiatives that drive growth and impact while safeguarding our resources and reputation. 

The document covers various types of risks, including financial, reputational, technological, and strategic risks. For instance, we maintain a low-risk appetite for the irresponsible use of financial resources and a zero-tolerance approach to legal non-compliance. Conversely, we have a high appetite for exploring new revenue sources within reason, reflecting our entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to financial sustainability. This is particularly important as Landcare NSW transitions to a more self-sustaining financial model, reducing reliance on government grants and diversifying our funding streams. 

The Risk Appetite Statement provides specific risk tolerances that act as benchmarks for our daily operations. These metrics help us manage financial sustainability, technological advancements, member engagement, and community impact with precision and accountability. For example, operational costs should not exceed 70% of the total annual budget, and member retention should aim for a minimum of 85% annually. 

Governance and oversight are integral to this framework. Our Board and CEO share the responsibility of adhering to the Risk Appetite Statement, with regular monitoring and annual reviews ensuring our risk management practices remain robust and responsive to any changes in our operational landscape. This governance tool aligns risk-taking behaviour across various facets of the organisation, translating broad principles into actionable metrics that can be monitored and managed in real time. 

For our members, this initiative underscores our dedication to creating a secure and thriving environment for all Landcarers. It reassures you that we are taking deliberate steps to protect our shared interests and enhance the effectiveness of our collective efforts. For our government stakeholders, the adoption of the Risk Appetite Statement signals our unwavering commitment to accountability and transparency. It highlights our proactive approach to risk management, aligning with best practices and standards set by leading governance institutions. 

As we move forward, the Risk Appetite Statement will be a cornerstone of our strategy, guiding us in balancing innovation with prudent risk management. This approach not only fortifies our position but also ensures that we can continue to deliver meaningful outcomes for our communities and the environment. Together, we are building a resilient and forward-thinking organisation, well-equipped to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. 

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Landcare movement.

For more information on our Risk Appetite Statement and how it shapes our operations, please contact us at enquiry@landcarensw.org.au. 

Collaborations and Partnerships

Strengthening Community Engagement and Environmental Stewardship

At Landcare NSW, we are dedicated to expanding opportunities for community engagement and enhancing environmental stewardship through various collaborations and partnerships.

Our efforts are aimed at integrating community-based initiatives with broader environmental and biosecurity strategies.

Here’s a glimpse into our recent activities, showcasing the dynamic work being done under the guidance of Peter Dixon, our Advisor for Major Partnerships and Grants: 

 

Community-Based Biosecurity Response: We are enhancing Landcare NSW’s role in biosecurity emergency response and surveillance. These efforts focus on mobilising community resources and expertise to address biosecurity threats effectively, ensuring rapid and coordinated responses. Peter Dixon has been instrumental in driving these initiatives, bringing his extensive experience and strategic vision to the table. 

 

Environmental Biosecurity Programs: Our programs addressing environmental biosecurity issues are designed to integrate with broader management activities. By leveraging community involvement, we aim to protect natural ecosystems from invasive species and diseases. Dixon’s leadership ensures that these programs are both innovative and effective, fostering stronger community ties and better environmental outcomes. 

 

Natural Capital and Biodiversity Initiatives: We are creating programs that strategically apply funds from various sources to catchment health projects. This initiative highlights our commitment to enhancing water quality and biodiversity through strategic funding and community-led projects. Under Dixon’s guidance, these programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of different regions, making them more impactful and sustainable. 

 

Capacity Building and Collaboration: We are actively discussing opportunities for capacity building in environmental management. These collaborations aim to strengthen community capabilities and support sustainable practices across NSW. Dixon’s role is pivotal in forging these partnerships, ensuring they are robust and geared towards long-term success. 

 

Seed and Plant Supply Chain Enhancement: Improving the seed and plant supply chain is vital for promoting best practices in environmental restoration and enhancing ecosystem resilience. We are working to ensure the availability of high-quality native seeds for restoration projects. With Dixon’s strategic oversight, this initiative is poised to set new standards in restoration practices, benefiting both the environment and local communities. 

 

Alignment with the State Advisory Council (SAC): In collaboration with the State Advisory Council (SAC) of Landcare NSW, we ensure that our community engagement and environmental stewardship efforts are aligned with regional needs. This collaboration allows us to hear the needs of the regions and adapt our strategies to better support local communities. Dixon’s coordination with the SAC ensures that our initiatives are responsive and effective, addressing the real-world challenges faced by our members. 

 

Through these initiatives, Landcare NSW is working to strengthen community engagement, enhance environmental stewardship, and integrate community-based efforts with broader environmental strategies.

Our advocacy and collaboration efforts, guided by Peter Dixon’s expertise, aim to create a more resilient and sustainable environment. We empower communities to take active roles in environmental conservation and natural resource management, making a tangible difference in their local areas. 

Stay informed about our advocacy initiatives by subscribing to our Connections Newsletter. 

MAKING CONSERVATION MATTER

Join the Private Land Conservation Program

The Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) program, funded by the Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT), is making significant strides across New South Wales. With regional coordinators in place, we’ve successfully hosted 46 events, engaging 1,436 attendees, including 824 landholders. Our ambitious goal of 100 events and reaching 2,000 landholders is well within sight. 

The BCT funding is being effectively utilised in various ways, from hosting events to supporting landholders in understanding and enhancing the biodiversity on their land. These events provide a platform for landholders to share their best practices, discuss ways to protect and expand their remnants, and connect with others to build supportive networks. These connections are crucial in addressing the biodiversity crisis sweeping across our country. 

Several key themes have emerged from these events, including grazing management, feral animal control, vegetation management, regeneration strategies, seed collection and propagation, and citizen science and monitoring. To maximise the impact of these themes, PLCM will be producing case studies and resources to bridge the gap between guidelines and on-ground implementation, dispelling myths around private land conservation. 

In the coming months, Virginia Bear of Little Gecko Media will be visiting various groups to capture the action. She will gather firsthand experiences from landowners and Landcarers, documenting and sharing the knowledge gained at these events through case studies, social networks, and the PLCM events portal. 

Looking for an event in your region? Check out the PLCM events calendar at PLCM Events Calendar. Your local and regional Landcare contacts are also a great resource for up-to-date event information. 

If you are interested in supporting conservation on your land, attending a PLCM event will connect you with your local BCT representative. For those wanting to expand their knowledge, the BCT’s e-learning portal offers free online courses in conservation land management, allowing you to learn at your own pace. Visit BCT e-learning portal to start your journey. 

Managed by Landcare NSW, this project serves as a conduit to connect Landcare with the BCT across the state. For more information, contact the program manager, Suzanne Pritchard, at spritchard@landcarensw.org.au.  

We invite all members and stakeholders to participate actively in these events. Together, we can make a significant impact on our environment and contribute to a sustainable future. 

Pictured: Regenerative burn with Traditional Owners in Cobbitty

PROTECTING INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE

IP Australia’s Initiatives

Indigenous Knowledge (IK), which encompasses the traditional practices, skills, and cultural expressions of Australia’s First Nations people, is a vital part of our cultural heritage.

Recognising the challenges in protecting this knowledge within the existing Intellectual Property (IP) system, IP Australia has implemented measures to safeguard and promote IK. Key initiatives include increasing awareness and understanding of the IP system among First Nations communities through collaborations, online resources, and specialised support services like Yarnline.

Additionally, a dedicated team ensures that trade mark and design applications involving IK follow proper consent and benefit-sharing protocols. 

Extensive consultations conducted by IP Australia highlighted the need for an Indigenous Advisory Panel, new checks for trade marks, a disclosure requirement for patents, and the potential for labelling authentic Indigenous products using new technologies like blockchain.

These measures aim to provide transparency, ensure consent from IK owners, and prevent the misuse and misappropriation of Indigenous Knowledge. By bridging the gap between traditional knowledge systems and modern IP frameworks, these initiatives support the preservation and recognition of Indigenous cultural heritage. 

For Landcare NSW, supporting these initiatives is essential. Protecting IK aligns with our commitment to preserving cultural heritage and sustainable land management practices.

Our First Nations program reflects this commitment, as we seek to integrate Indigenous Knowledge into our conservation efforts. While we are still working on the co-design of the current phase of the Landcare Enabling Program (LEP), we are always looking for resources to support First Nations in their work.

Additionally, the National Landcare Network will employ a First Nations Facilitator to further support these efforts. Indigenous Knowledge includes valuable ecological and agricultural practices that contribute to environmental stewardship. Furthermore, fostering stronger relationships with Indigenous communities enhances collaboration on conservation projects, promoting authenticity and preventing the misuse of Indigenous Knowledge.

Supporting IP Australia’s efforts, Landcare NSW reinforces its dedication to cultural preservation, community engagement, and sustainable land management. 

For more information and to gain access to these federal government resources, visit the Indigenous Knowledge IP Hub. 

NSW GOVERNMENT APPS

Helping Land Managers Make Data-backed Decisions

The NSW government has developed a suite of apps to help land managers make better informed, data backed, land management decisions. 

Developed by scientists in the Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water, the apps draw on years of research and development to make the most accurate, detailed information available to land managers across the state. 

The apps are easy to use and include functions for zooming into areas of interest and locational searching and can be used anywhere you have a mobile signal. 

Each of the apps has a feedback function which allows land managers to provide updates based on their own observations on their properties. These updates are assessed by the team and once verified can be used to update the maps behind the apps.  

  • Trees Near Me NSW provides maps and information about Plant Community Types anywhere in NSW. It makes it easy for anyone with an interest in native plants from farmers and bushwalkers to backyard green thumbs, bush regeneration groups and ecologists to learn more about native vegetation in New South Wales. 
  • Credits Near Me NSW is a great starting point for landholders thinking about establishing a Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement under the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme. The app can help landholders identify the types of biodiversity credits they may be able to create and sell, and whether there are people looking to buy these types of credits. The app can also help proponents of developments find areas where the potential supply of credits may help meet their biodiversity offset obligations. 
  • Soils Near Me NSW is a simple and accurate way for users to find information about the capabilities and limitations of soils and landscapes, the soil types in New South Wales and their acid sulfate soil risk. It is useful for planners, land managers, bush regenerators, teachers, students and citizen scientists, or anyone looking to learn more about the soils near them and how they can shape their management decisions. 
  • Restore Trees NSW helps users inspire and plan their restoration projects to deliver the best biodiversity outcomes for their property and the surrounding landscape. 

The app uses information from the State Vegetation Type Map to help land managers make informed choices about what native plants are best suited to the location of their project. 

You can download all the apps from the google play and apple apps stores or access desktop versions at environment.nsw.gov.au.