By Natasha Fujimoto
FOR more than 30 years Landcare Australia has supported over 6,000 groups and 140,000 volunteers with local Landcare projects that are focused on sustainable land management practices and environmental achievements.Envisioning a future where all Australians actively care for the land and water that sustains us, the not-for-profit aims to empower individuals and communities via local groups and facilitated by regional networks to deliver on-ground results for the environment and biodiversity.
Covering approximately 3,000 square kilometres and servicing close to 20 Landcare environment groups, Goulburn Murray Landcare Network (GMLN) operates in the agricultural floodplains of the Goulburn Broken and North Central catchments of Victoria.
From supporting the delivery of annual Victorian Landcare Grants to local groups and projects in the region, GMLN is instrumental in facilitating volunteer led, environmental conservation from the ground up.
From native bushland revival to promoting sustainable farming practices, GMLN also connects people to the environment by working in partnership with several organisations to deliver coordinated school and adult education activities, such as its Biodiversity Education Aquatic Discovery program (BEAD).
Seeing the consequential role of dedicated volunteers, the State Government recently announced a $8.2M investment into Victorian Landcare networks, extending the roles of 80 part-time Victorian Landcare Facilitators and 10 Regional Landcare Coordinators until June 30, 2025.
“This very welcome funding will not only ensure the continuation of key projects across the catchment area,” said GMLN facilitator, Dan Walker, “…but it will also continue to build and maintain the bridge connecting the community and the environment.”
To get involved in a local Landcare group, assisting in projects to ensure a secure environment for future generations you can contact Goulburn Murray Landcare 03 5821 3530 or email info@gmln.com.au or follow on Facebook or Instagram
