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Campfire Gathering
The Campfire Gathering at Boonalla Aboriginal Area on Gamilaroi Country was a truly meaningful day of connection, learning,
and reflection. Coordinators from across the northwest came together in a culturally safe and welcoming space to build relationships, share
stories, and strengthen partnerships with the Aboriginal community.
The day began with a moving Acknowledgement of Country, followed by powerful storytelling that invited everyone to reflect on their own
connection to place. Through open and respectful conversations, we explored our experiences in Landcare and the importance of Aboriginal
partnerships in our shared work caring for Country.
Lunch provided the perfect opportunity to relax, share a yarn, and deepen our connections. In the afternoon, Landcare staff engaged in a
robust and honest discussion about what Aboriginal partnerships mean in practice, before ending the day with a quiet reflection and personal
commitment to Country.
Erosion control with rock bags
North West Local Land Services Extension officer Craig Pullman invited Landcare Coordinators to view the application of erosion control
Rockbags at a property west of Barraba on 29th May 2025.
These flexible geotextile bags filled with rocks, are increasingly used for creek erosion control. They are environmentally friendly,
being made from non-toxic, recycled plastic, and are permeable to water and suitable for fish and wildlife habitats.
The site was a narrow creek bed with a high eroded bank requiring stabilisation.
Down to Earth: Conversation, Collaboration & Technology
Hosted by Landcare Australia and FarmLab
Down to Earth is a 2-day immersive experience for anyone connected
to the agrifood supply chain, from producers, founders, supply chain leads and sustainability managers to government reps, researchers, and
investors. If carbon is on your radar (or in your ESG report), this is your cue to head to Armidale.
Plan Ahead for the Best Planting Outcomes – Place Your Spring and Autumn Orders Now!
Are you planning a planting project for spring 2025 or autumn 2026? Now is the time to get in touch and secure your plant orders!
At the Landcare Nursery, we grow to order—so the sooner we know about your upcoming revegetation, habitat restoration, or landscaping needs,
the better we can prepare. Advance notice allows us to grow the right species and ensure plants are healthy, hardy, and ready for planting
when your project begins.
We understand that timing is everything when it comes to successful planting. With good communication and forward planning, we can help you
achieve the best outcomes for your site.
Whether you’re working on a small community initiative or a large-scale environmental project, we’re here to help you get the right plants,
in the right place, at the right time.
📞 Contact us now to discuss your project needs and timelines. Ninna Douglas 0431242589 or Paul Moxon 0425337475
Landcare Learnings Recap – Spotlight on Cacti with Debi Bancroft
On Tuesday night, May 20, the Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) hosted another great Landcare Learnings session – this time with
special guest Debi Bancroft, Harrisia Cactus Project Officer.
Debi delivered a fascinating and informative talk on invasive cacti in Australia, shedding light on a growing issue many of us might not
know much about. Did you know there are no native cacti species in Australia? Every cactus you see here has been introduced – and some have
become serious threats to our landscapes.
Deb, who came armed with (safely contained!) cactus samples, walked us through: How to spot and identify invasive cacti Which emerging
cactus species to keep an eye on The origins and spread of these plants across Australia Why reporting and early action is essential Our
responsibilities as landholders and community members to prevent their spread
Her engaging and practical presentation left everyone better equipped to recognise, report, and respond to cactus incursions.
A huge thank you to Debi for sharing her knowledge – and to everyone who joined us for another evening of learning and connection.
For more information about weedy cacti click here
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Biggest Morning Tea Gomeroi Yinaarr Landcare is hosting the Biggest Morning Tea!
Biggest Morning Tea Gomeroi Yinaarr Landcare is hosting the Biggest Morning Tea!
Featuring:
- Smoking ceremony
- Acknowledgement of Country
- Campfire
- Native Grain Johnny Cakes
- Native Tea Tasting
- On Country Morning Tea
- Gumby Gumby seed sorting and traditional medicine yarn
- Di Hall - Native grain presentation.
- Fundraising for Cancer
Gumby Gumby plant giveaway for the 1st 20 registered.
This is a FREE event but please bring a donation to put towards our fundraising for cancer.
Ag360 workshop: Tamworth
HOSTED BY LLS
Ag360 is a free, online on-farm management tool designed to keep you on track with your targets and make informed decisions for your
livestock.
Ag360 draws on your farm data and customised weather forecasts to predict rainfall, soil moisture, pasture growth, and animal weight and
health risks, up to 6 months in advance.
Local Land Services invites 12 landholders to hear from Ag360 expert and pasture coach Jaimi-lee Edwards. Attendees with be guided to set up
an account and learn the functions so you can use Ag360 at home, on-farm.
Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Please bring your laptop along for the day.
Register to secure your place at
this event.
For more information contact Ella Barney, Drought Adoption Officer on 0447 185 133 or ella.barney@lls.nsw.gov.au
This workshop is brought to you by the Drought Adoption Officer Program. The Drought Adoption Officer program received funding from
the Australian Government's Future Drought Fund through the SNSW Innovation Hub and SQNNSW Innovation Hub.
LLS June events
North West Local Land Services has a range of workshops and events happening across the region this June, designed to support landholders, farmers, and communities. From practical livestock and biosecurity advice to property planning and natural resource management, there's something for everyone looking to strengthen their skills and knowledge.
Carbon8 and TRLA take School Students on a ‘Deep Dive into Soil, Water, and the Little Critters in the Environment’…
Carbon8, in partnership with the Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA), hosted an unforgettable Schools Biodiversity Day on Friday
16th May 2025, taking students from across the Peel region on an exciting, hands-on journey into the fascinating world beneath their feet.
This was no ordinary school day—it was an exploration of the magic happening in our soils, the water that sustains them, and the tiny
critters that make everything tick!
Students were treated to a day of interactive workshops, lively discussions, and up-close encounters with the world of biodiversity,
ecosystem health, and the interconnectedness of soil and water. From the tiniest soil organisms to the biggest environmental concepts, the
event provided students with a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of nature and the vital role they can play in protecting it.
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2025 Photo Competition - NOW OPEN
Capture the Beauty of Our Region – and See It Projected in Fitzroy Plaza!
Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) is thrilled to launch the 2025 Landcare Photography Competition, a
celebration of our region’s breathtaking biodiversity. From the towering red gums and seasonal wattles to blue wrens, kangaroos, and
blue-banded bees, our landscape is teeming with natural beauty—just waiting to be captured through your lens.
Whether you're a keen amateur, a professional, or simply love taking photos on your phone, we invite you to get creative
and showcase the beauty of the natural world around you. Explore grassy white box woodlands, rivers, billabongs, bush tracks, parks—or even
your own backyard—and show us what biodiversity looks like to you.
Interested in climate and storytelling? This event looks like one to check out!
Scenes from the Climate Era is showing at the Capitol Theatre Tamworth on Thursday 19 June. Blending
drama, humour and insight, it explores life in a rapidly changing world through a series of short, powerful scenes.
🎟️ For more details and tickets, visit:
👉 https://www.capitoltheatretamworth.com.au/scenes-from-the-climate-era
#ClimateTheatre #TamworthEvents #ScenesFromTheClimateEra
Peel Wetlands Stage 6 Biology River Health Workshop
The Peel Wetlands Stage 6 Biology River Health Workshop was made possible through the outstanding leadership and coordination of Katie Rowe. Katie's efforts, supported by an exceptional team of educators, ensured the success of this two-day event, which focused on environmental science and sustainability. TRLA proudly supported this educational initiative, which was held on Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th May 2025. The event, in partnership with Peel High School and Farrer M.A.H.S., was designed to inspire students and provide them with invaluable insights into the environmental sciences.
Community Tree Planting for the Whole Family
The Friends of Moore Creek Caves Reserve
Invite You
To a community family friendly tree planting morning
In the reserve at the end of Maysteers Lane
(off Moore Creek Road)
On Saturday 17 May 2025 between 9:00am and 12:00
Financial Literacy and Investing in Natural Capital Sessions – Build Financial and Natural Wealth for Your Farm
North West Local Land Services in partnership with Principal Economist Janine Powell from AgEcon invite you to gain a deeper understanding
of the financial advantages of managing natural capital on your farm at workshops located in Tamworth (20 May) and Narrabri (27 May).
The sessions will explore:
• monitoring your farm’s financial and enterprise performance
• understanding the link between natural assets and financial outcomes
• local farm case studies on assessing natural capital
• an update on natural capital markets
• Local Land Services natural capital service
This workshop will equip you with practical tools and insights to strengthen your farm’s financial resilience while enhancing its
environmental sustainability.
Landcare Learning - A prickly problem
Got a prickly problem on your patch? Join us May 20 to learn how to spot, stop, and manage invasive cacti with Harrisia Cactus Project Officer Debi Bancroft!
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Carbon Farm Field Day
Interested in Carbon Projects but have been waiting to see what it looks like on farm? Now's your chance. Atlas Carbon in partnership with NSW Government and Wilmot Cattle Co will be holding an on farm field day in Nundle on 17th June. Bookings now open!
North West Local Land Services May 2025
Stay up to date with the latest events, make sure you check out the North West Local Land Services website, newsletter and socials. Other events pop up that are not currently listed so it is a great way to stay up to date with following links listed below.
Where have the Bogong Moths gone?
Bogong Moths usually migrate in spring each year, especially from southern Queensland, central NSW and western Victoria to the Australian
Alps, and then back again in autumn. Recent research suggests they may also be in South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania, but more
data is needed - including via Moth Tracker.
Bogong Moths are facing a number of threats, including extreme weather events, drought and climate change, light pollution on their
migration routes, changed wide-scale agricultural practices and insecticides, predation by introduced species and habitat loss. Following an
estimated 99.5% collapse, Bogong Moths were added to the IUCN Endangered Species list in December 2021. Scientists are currently working
hard to understand more about the decline of Bogong Moths and how to protect the species, so with Moth Tracker, we can all do our bit to
help!
During the Bogong Moth’s spring to summer migration in 2023, we received 594 moth sightings on Moth Tracker, with 291 of those confirmed to
be Endangered Bogong Moths. To all the Moth Trackers out there, thank you for your support!
A map of Victoria, Australia showing the Bogong Moths' annual migration route from NS and SA down to Victoria's alpine region
Have you seen a Bogong Moth? Submit your sighting on Moth Tracker https://mothtracker.swifft.net.au/
And please turn off your outside lights so they can keep flying!!!
Photo by By Donald Hobern from Canberra, Australia - Agrotis infusa, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4936674
Bendemeer Students Join the TreeTroff Biodiversity Project
This week, I had the pleasure of visiting Bendemeer Primary School to talk to Years 3 to 6 students and their teacher, Mrs Doak about the
exciting TreeTroff in Schools program. We explored the origins of the project, what it means for their school, and even selected
the best location and tree for the installation — a great step forward in bringing the program to life at Bendemeer.
The TreeTroff project is part of the Koalas and Others 2025: A Schoolyard and Community Biodiversity Project, coordinated by the
Warrumbungle National Park Environmental Education Centre (WNPEEC). It's an innovative citizen science initiative that helps schools monitor
local biodiversity using cameras and data collection tools. Students gain valuable digital, scientific, and communication skills as they
analyse images, record data, and prepare scientific reports each semester to share with other participating schools across the region.
The project provides long-term data that supports conservation efforts and is of interest to universities and government agencies.
We're looking forward to seeing Bendemeer students actively engaging in this hands-on conservation science and sharing their findings with
schools across the state.
Help achieve more sustainable and resilient rural landscapes
Have you undertaken native revegetation on your farm in the past?
Researchers from Western Sydney University, the University of Tasmania and their collaborators want to hear about the outcomes. We invite
you to participate in our study by completing a brief on-line survey, site visit and interview. Eight lucky survey participants will receive
prizes valued at over $1000 and an opportunity to share and learn from other land managers interested in ensuring sustainable and resilient
rural landscapes around Australia.
- To find out more click here
- To register, please complete the survey https://bit.ly/NSWGrassyWoodland
If you have any queries about this study, please contact e.sumner@westernsydney.edu.au or call 0497 784 310. This study is funded by the National Environmental Science Program and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Explore the Heart of the Macdonald River – Past, Present & Future
Join us for a special community event celebrating the Macdonald River — its rich history, vital ecology, and the people working to protect
it. This is a chance to connect with your local landscape, learn from passionate experts, and hear how you can be part of the ongoing
efforts to care for this important waterway.
Local historians Anne and Winston Doak will share stories of the river’s past — from early settlement to recent restoration efforts — while
ecologists Dr. Lou Streeting and Martin Dillon will highlight the river’s role in supporting native wildlife, including endangered species
like the Bell’s turtle. Their work in the region spans decades, involving everything from nest protection and hatchling releases to
landholder collaboration and education.
Whether you’ve lived by the river all your life or are new to the area, this event is a great way to better understand the natural systems
that support our community and how we can protect them. You’ll hear about past and ongoing efforts to restore the riverbanks and improve
habitat, as well as future opportunities to get involved with the Macdonald River Restoration Landcare Group — including tree planting days
and working bees.
Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be provided. Come along, bring a friend, and be inspired by the stories of resilience, collaboration
and care that flow through the heart of our river.
🌿 Our friends at Nemingha Community Garden are hosting a fantastic Open Day on Friday, May 10—and you're invited! 🌿
🌿 Our friends at Nemingha Community Garden are hosting a fantastic Open Day on Friday, May 10—and you're invited! 🌿
Starting at 10 AM, this free community event is packed with hands-on gardening fun, guest speakers, and plenty of
inspiration.
🌱 Highlights include:
- A talk on permaculture by John Simpson from the Tamworth Community Organic Gardening Group
- A demo on building Wicking Beds—and a chance to make your own mini one to take home!
- Free food and drinks
- Plant and seed sales/swaps (cash only)
- A raffle with great prizes
It’s the perfect chance to connect with other gardeners, learn something new, and enjoy a great day out. Spread the word and show your support for this amazing community initiative!
📍 Nemingha Community Garden, Nemingha
🗓️ Friday, May 10 | From 10 AM
🌿 Biodiversity & Productivity – Tamworth Workshop | 15 May 🌿
We’re excited to be partnering with Carbon8 for a powerful one-day workshop all about boosting biodiversity
to strengthen your farming system — from the soil up!
Whether you’re managing pasture or cropping, increasing biodiversity can improve productivity, build resilience, and reduce the need for
chemical inputs. This is your chance to hear directly from landholders, educators, and experts who are walking the talk.
📅 When: Wednesday, 15 May
🐾 NSW Companion Animals Act Review – Have Your Say! 🐾
🚨 Submissions close Sunday, May 4, 2025 🚨
After years of advocacy, the NSW Government is finally reviewing the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998 — and your
voice is urgently needed
to help protect our native wildlife from the impacts of free-roaming pet cats.
🦘 Why it matters:
This outdated law currently prevents local Councils from setting and enforcing cat containment policies, leaving cats to
roam, kill native wildlife, and spread diseases like toxoplasmosis. It’s time for a law that reflects
modern expectations of responsible pet ownership.
💥 Make a difference – three easy options:
✅ Option A (quick & easy):
Use the Invasive Species Council’s free writing kit – they’ll send you a ready-to-go email template.
🔗
Register here
✍️ Option B (most impactful):
Write a short email in your own words explaining why you believe cat containment is essential.
📧 Email: ca.review@olg.nsw.gov.au
📝 Subject: Companion Animals Act Review
💡 Ask for:
- Statewide 24/7 cat containment laws
- Mandatory desexing by 4 months
- $9 million+ in support for Councils and education campaigns
📄 Option C (official form):
Review the discussion paper and submit feedback via the online submission form on the Office of Local Government site.
🔗 Submit here
🌿 Every submission helps push for change! Let’s keep native wildlife safe, support responsible pet ownership, and empower Councils to act. Please share this widely. 🐨🦉🐾
🚜 Calling All Farmers, Farm Managers & Owners! 🌱
We're helping support important PhD research from Federation University Australia exploring how farmers think about sustainability,
technology, and data in agriculture
– and how we can build better tools to support real-world needs.
If you're a farmer, farm manager, or farm owner, please take 10-15 minutes to complete this anonymous
survey. ✅
Or, if you’re not a farmer, help us by sharing this post with your networks!
🧑🌾 Your insights will help shape a new framework for assessing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) impacts in agriculture.
🔗 Take the survey here:
https://federation.syd1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6Mqz9Vzs9m7kdNk
🎓 Research by Bhola Paudel, PhD Candidate
✔️ Approved by Federation University Human Research Ethics Committee (2024/228)
Habitat Talk and Open Day
Join us for a special morning exploring how to design your garden for habitat — whether you live in town or on the land!
Our Habitat Talk starts at 10:00 AM, presented by Paul Moxon, our resident horticulturist. Paul will share his expert advice on:
- Choosing the right plants for urban and rural spaces
- Creating inviting environments for birds, insects, and other native wildlife
- Garden design tips to boost biodiversity
- How to care for your plants, plus handy planting tips and tricks
After the talk, enjoy a relaxed browse through our nursery, chat with our friendly team, and pick up some beautiful, habitat-friendly native plants. 🌱 Free entry – No bookings required – Everyone welcome! 🌱
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