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Landcare Australia Community Grants
As part of Landcare Australia’s celebration of 35 years of Landcare Australia and landcare as a national movement, the 2024 Landcare Australia Community Grants program will support local landcare and community environmental groups across Australia to deliver projects that address priority issues for the group, community and/or the environment.
Celebrating National Tree Day: Supporting the Glossy Black Cockatoos
On National Tree Day, our community came together with a shared purpose: to support the threatened Glossy Black Cockatoos. This remarkable event saw the planting of over 100 trees, a significant stride in creating and enhancing habitats for this endangered species.
Successful habitat augmentation event in Bendemeer
On July 25, the Bendemeer Town Hall buzzed with excitement as approximately 40 enthusiastic attendees gathered for a workshop on habitat augmentation. Hosted by the Tamworth Regional Landcare Association and featuring expert presentations from Mick Callen of Habitat Innovation, the event was a resounding success.
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Landcare Learning - Celebrating Local Landcarers
Join us in celebrating Landcare Week and the outstanding achievements of our three regional winners of the NSW State Landcare Awards: Stephanie Cameron, Tania Hartigan, and Nell Chaffey. This special event will honor their remarkable contributions to Landcare in the Northwest Region. Come along to hear their inspiring stories, learn about their journeys in Landcare, and celebrate their dedication to protecting and enhancing our natural environment.
National Tree Planting Day
28 JULY | TAMWORTH
Please join us for this year's National Tree Planting. All volunteers need is sturdy shoes and clothing, we supply plants, tools and
refreshments etc
Future Proofing our Farms - Quirindi
14 AUGUST | QUIRINDI
This is an informative and inspiring presentation and short film session, followed by a panel discussion with local farmers.
Future Proofing Our Farms - Gunnedah
13 AUGUST | GUNNEDAH
This is an informative and inspiring presentation and short film session, followed by a panel discussion with local farmers.
Wallabadah water forum
3 AUGUST | WALLABADAH
Following on from our first forum, we present
Dr Judi Earle & Professor Martin Thoms to progress discussion on best practices for water and land management. Wallabadah Public School,
3rd August 2024, 8:30 - 12:30. Catering by Wallabadah P & C. Free Event
Please register at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/wallabadah-water-forum-ii-tickets-939270051007
Habitat augmentation
25 JULY 2024 | BENDEMEER
Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop on artificial habitats and their importance in conservation on July 25th at Bendemeer Town
Hall. Learn about modular nest box systems, specialized habitat solutions, and participate in field installations of various habitat
structures. This is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of sustainable practices and make a tangible impact on our local
wildlife. Click the Eventbrite link to register and find out more. Bring your gloves and passion for conservation—we look forward to seeing
you there!
https://tinyurl.com/yv482bw8
Exciting New Resources for Education and Youth in the North West Region
Exciting New Resources for Education and Youth in the North West Region
We are thrilled to announce that Tamworth Regional Landcare is embarking on an exciting new initiative to establish resources aimed at
education and youth engagement in North West NSW. Our goal is to inspire and empower the younger generation to take an active role in
landcare and environmental stewardship.
Counting Koalas
Tamworth Regional Landcare have embarked on an exciting new project. To count Koalas in the region as part of a country wide initiative
funded by WIRES. With the use of a drone equipped with a high resolution thermal camera we are seeking out individual koalas camped high in
the canopy of their eucalypt forest habitat.
Junior Landcare Family Fun!
The winter school holidays are fast approaching. We have created a free guide for some awesome Junior Landcare activities you can do right at home that are perfect for colder times of the year.
Caring for a native garden in winter
Sure is cold down here at the minute in Willow Tree!
Having moved to a “Plantswomans” garden with a LOT of native plants, I thought I better do a bit of research and see if there were any
essential tasks I need to keep in mind. Luckily, it seems pretty simple… there are a few photos below, and I take NO credit for the
garden!
Turning Knowledge into Practice at Balala Station, Uralla
Producers and industry representatives alike enjoyed an informative and motivating discussion on Natural Capital and its potential benefits to food and fibre markets at a recent Australian Holistic Management Cooperative (AHMC) field day hosted by Richard and Sarah Daugherty at their historic property “Balala Station”
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Photo Competition now open
Submit your entry by Friday, August 25 | ONLINE
Join Our Exciting Photo Competition!
Theme: Water in the Landscape
Are you passionate about photography and the natural beauty of our landscape? We invite you to participate in our photo competition and
capture the essence of "Water in the Landscape." This theme aims to highlight the vital role of water in our environment and inspire
awareness and appreciation of our natural surroundings.
What are the benefits of native bees and what can you do attract them to your garden?
If you want flowers or fruits in your garden, they'll need pollinating, and native bees are among Australia's most powerful pollinators.
Landcare Australia seeks NSW landholder/s interested in participating in a large direct seeding project
Landcare Australia is looking for a landholder/s who would be interested in participating in a large direct seeding project, in collaboration with one of our corporate partners, to plant 44,444 trees in 2025.
We want to know more...
We want to hear from YOU! Help us make a bigger impact in our community and our local environment. We've put together a quick survey to find
out how we can serve you better. Whether it's learning about new subjects, getting involved as a volunteer, or sharing your awesome ideas –
we want to know it all!Click the link below to fill out the survey. Your feedback is crucial for us to grow and make a difference together. Let's keep our grassroots movement strong and thriving!
Habitat Augmentation
25 JULY 2024 | BENDEMEER
Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop on artificial habitats and their importance in conservation on July 25th at Bendemeer Town
Hall. Learn about modular nest box systems, specialized habitat solutions, and participate in field installations of various habitat
structures. This is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of sustainable practices and make a tangible impact on our local
wildlife. Click the Eventbrite link to register and find out more. Bring your gloves and passion for conservation—we look forward to seeing
you there!
Finding Bogong moths and Semi Evergreen Vine Thicket communities
We have this week been contacted in relation to sourcing local knowledge around locations of Bogong Moth breeding habitat and Semi Evergreen
Vine Thicket communities.
The Royal Botanic Gardens are looking to carry out field research on Semi Evergreen Vine Thicket. I have advised them of a remnant
area I am aware of in Bingara, however they are keen to hear of any other SEVT communities in the North West. If you know of further
sites which the researchers would be able to access, please get in touch with me in order that I can pass this information on. The
Royal Botanic Gardens researchers are about to commence a project that aims to increase the resilience in the Semi-evergreen Vine Thicket
dry rainforest community. The project will follow the model they communicated in the previous Brigalow community workshops held across the
region, that combine a genetic and seed trait approach to help identify environmental conditions that are amenable to create new SeVT
communities that are resilient and self-sustaining or to build additional resilience into surviving remnants.
Separately to this request, we have also been contacted by the University of Melbourne looking for information on local Bogong Moths in
their winter breeding grounds. I have attached an information sheet in regards to this. Please either contact Emily direct on
the details on the attached information sheet, or get in touch with me and I can forward any relevant information on to Emily.
Any queries in regards to the above, please don't hesitate to contact me
Shelley McDouall
Regional Landcare Coordinator (North West Region)
Northern Slopes Landcare
Mob 0474 887 982 ph. 02 6724 2052
Knowledge sharing in Bendemeer
On Friday, June 14th, members of Little Manilla Landcare Group, visited Bendemeer for an inspiring tour of the Macdonald River led by Anne
and Winston Doak. Over more than a decade, Anne and Winston have spearheaded a beautification project that has transformed the river's
ecosystem. Their efforts have focused on removing invasive species like Black Willow and Privet, and planting native species such as Ribbon
Gums and Callistemons. The Macdonald River, home to the Bells turtle and platypus, has seen significant habitat improvement due to the
removal of introduced willows, which has greatly enhanced the natural environment for these native species.
The Doaks generously shared their time and expertise, motivating the group from Manilla to consider a similar project at the Junction in
Manilla. This area, where the Manilla River meets the Namoi, is popular among walkers, families, picnickers, and fishing enthusiasts.
However, it has been overrun by invasive weeds and trees, making river access difficult. The educational and inspiring visit to Bendemeer
provided valuable insights and encouragement for our Manilla group to reclaim and restore their own stretch of the river, enhancing its
accessibility and ecological health for the community.
Rehydrating the Landscape at Big Jacks Creek
Roger and Jill bought “The Oaks” about 20 years ago. Roger’s background is in IT and Project Management within financial groups, which would explain his ability to observe, analyse and take cost effective action to resolve problems. Jill is Nurse Educator based in Sydney. Their focus at The Oaks were cattle, fattening, fodder, profitability...
2024 Photo Competition
Get Ready, Nature Lovers! 🌿📸
We're excited to announce that our 2024 Photo Competition is on the horizon! This year's theme is "Water in the Landscape," and we can't
wait to see how you capture the beauty and importance of water in our environment.
Keep your eyes peeled for more details coming soon! In the meantime, grab your cameras, start exploring, and follow us to stay updated.
Let's showcase the stunning landscapes that make our community special!
Member Survey
🌿 Hey TRLA Members! 🌿
We want to hear from YOU! Help us make a bigger impact in our community and our local environment. We've put together a quick survey to find
out how we can serve you better. Whether it's learning about new subjects, getting involved as a volunteer, or sharing your awesome ideas –
we want to know it all!
Click the link below to fill out the survey. Your feedback is crucial for us to grow and make a difference together. Let's keep our
grassroots movement strong and thriving! 💚
Thank you for being a part of Tamworth Regional Landcare Association. Together, we can achieve so much more!
🌱✨
Casuarina Special
Massive sale of Casuarina crisata (belah/bilaarr) and Casuarina cunninghamiania (river oak), 5 plants for $5.00. Order them here
Belah: https://square.link/u/PQXxpio7
River oak: https://square.link/u/qVRWyoMw
or head to the nursery at 300 Wallamore Road TOMORROW from 9am-2pm.
Have your say on pest animal management in the North West
The Regional Strategic Pest Animal Plans are now out for public consultation.
LLS is asking landholders and the community to give their feedback on the draft 2024-2028 North West Regional Strategic Pest Animal
Management Plan.
The plan will help us work together to identify, target and manage pest animals over the next 5 years. It will guide on-ground activities
and programs to reduce the impact of pest animals on the environment, farming and productivity.
Congratulations to Wallabadah Community Association
Congratulations to Wallabadah Community Association, who received this fabulous recognition for their community reflecting 5 years of work and over 19 projects, in drainages, research and land management infrastructure and practices involving their water by numerous agricultural and residential landholders, in partnership and collaboration and partnership with their community organisations like the Wallabadah Racecourse Trust and the Wallabadah Public School, LPSC, Crownlands Tamworth, University of New England, NW Local Land Services, Tamworth Regional Landcare Association, McKenzie Ag Consulting, DPI Water among many others. Congratulations! The attached acceptance response is worth watching too. Whether you are a fan or not, the issue of our water management in our community in an uncertain water future is too important to leave to someone else..
Congratulations to Steph Cameron, winner of the Gerald Carnie award!
Congratulations to Steph Cameron, winner of the Gerald Carnie award. Such a deserving winner and champion of the North West. The Gerald Carnie Memorial Award for Keeping the Landcare Flame Alive was established by Landcare NSW to recognise this very special individuals’ contributions to the Landcare movement.The Gerald Carnie Memorial Award stands as a testament to those who ignite passion and action in others, serving as a beacon of inspiration for greater involvement in Landcare initiatives.It is awarded to an individual in recognition of their contribution to the development of “the philosophy of Landcare”.The recipient champions the development of Landcare as a means to support and engender change in attitudes, which translates to a more cohesive and resilient community that acts to achieve a healthier environment and/or more productive and sustainable farms.
Congratulations to our very special Nell Chaffey on winning the Landcare NSW women in Landcare award
Congratulations to our very special Nell Chaffey on winning the Landcare NSW women in Landcare award. Your quiet passion is infectious to all those you meet. Your messages on small inputs like habitat stepping stones, the importance of understory plants and fostering a sense of community have had such a positive impact in the environment of the North West. Thank you!
Natural Capital Opportunities - On Farm (LLS event)
Join LLS to learn about measuring natural capital assets on your farm, and carbon and biodiversity opportunities to boost your bottom line.
Erosion Control Basics Workshop (LLS event)
Join North West Local Land Services in Somerton for a workshop on controlling erosion on your property.
Gunnible Landcare
Gunnible Landcare Inc has conducted environmentally focused projects in the Gunnedah area since 1997 and offers a collective viewpoint and a social community focus.
Bogong moths in Willow Tree
On 15th April, 30 or so Bogong moths visited my house in Willow Tree – clustering at the kitchen and laundry windows. I’ve lived in the area for 15 years and have never seen these numbers before!
Quick guide to winter proofing your house
For homeowners with older houses looking to reduce cold, improve heating, and lower energy costs, several practical measures can be taken. Enhance insulation by using heavy, lined curtains, installing pelmets, and sealing gaps in windows and doors with insulation strips or caulk. Address drafts around doors with door snakes and weather stripping. Seal unused fireplaces, old heaters, and fixed vents to prevent heat loss. Cover evaporative cooling units and use magnetic strips to seal them in winter. Fill gaps around pipes and joints with silicone sealant or expanding foam. Use rugs and carpets to insulate floors, and open blinds during the day to let in sunlight. Implementing these steps can significantly enhance warmth and energy efficiency in older homes.
Composted Soil Conditioner is available now
Composted Soil Conditioner is available for delivery and spreading in the Tamworth Region. The product is composted and matured over a minimum of 12 weeks and is monitored to ensure destruction of pathogens and weed seeds, and to build more stable forms carbon. Each batch is tested to ensure regulatory compliance. A laboratory analysis of the product is available on request.
Volunteers needed for our nursery
Join our Landcare nursery's incredible volunteer team! We're seeking assistance with plant propagation, repotting, seed collecting and processing, and plant maintenance. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or eager to learn, we welcome your enthusiasm and dedication. Join us on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9am to 1pm to get involved, or reach out via phone at 0425 337 475 or email us at nursery@trla.org.au. Let's grow together!
Landcare Learning - Home Sweet Home - Energy efficiency 101
Join us for an enlightening session on energy efficiency! We're thrilled to welcome Noretta Terry, an esteemed guest speaker and passionate advocate for sustainable living, to share her invaluable insights. Whether you're a seasoned environmental enthusiast or just beginning your journey towards a greener lifestyle, this event is for you. Alongside Noretta, representatives from TRC will be on hand to address any questions you may have about optimizing energy usage in your home. Don't miss this opportunity to learn practical tips and strategies for reducing your carbon footprint while enhancing comfort and savings. Secure your seat now and be part of the movement towards a more energy-efficient future!
Lomandra hystrix clearance
Massive sale of Lomandra hystrix, 5 plants for $5.00. Order them here https://tamworth-regional-landcare-association.square.site/product/lomandra-hystrix-river-mat-rush-/73?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=2 or head to the nursery at 300 Wallamore Road TOMORROW from 9am-2pm.
New Opening Hours for Autumn
The nursery is now open on Saturdays from 9am-2pm through the rest of Autumn. We have lots of stock to go and tubestock is $4.40 with members receiving a discount of $1/tubestock.
Welcome to Kat our administrative officer for TLRA and the North West Region
🌱 Welcome, Kat Pilavidis! 🌿
We're thrilled to welcome Kat to our Landcare team as the new Northwest Landcare and TRLA Administrative Officer! Kat's diverse background
and extensive experience across various industries bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to our organization.
With a career spanning aviation, real estate, business, construction, and management, Kat is well-equipped to support the crucial work of
Landcare in the local and North-West area. Her passion for community engagement and sustainability is evident as she eagerly joins our
mission.
Having made Tamworth her home in recent years, Kat understands the importance of supporting local initiatives and ensuring a strong,
sustainable future for all. As a local landowner herself, she is deeply committed to contributing to the well-being of both the local and
wider community.
Join us in extending a warm welcome to Kat! Together, let's continue to make a positive impact on our environment and community. 🌳
Welcome to Susan our new Tamworth and Surrounds Landcare Coordinator
🌱 Welcome, Susan Wilson! 🌿
We're thrilled to introduce Susan one of the new addition to our Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) family! Susan brings
with her a wealth of experience and passion for environmental stewardship.
Having been deeply involved in Landcare initiatives for the past two years, including serving as the Landcare Coordinator for the Walgett
region and stepping in as an interim Coordinator for the Liverpool Plains and Gunnedah, Susan is ready to hit the ground running in her new
role.
As our Landcare Coordinator, Susan will be instrumental in providing invaluable support to our Landcare groups, networks, dedicated
Landcarers, and landholders throughout Tamworth and its surrounding areas.
Her primary focus will be on nurturing existing Landcare groups, cultivating the growth of new ones, and extending a helping hand to
individuals eager to engage in natural resource management activities. Together with the dedicated team at TRLA, Susan is committed to
tackling pressing agricultural and urban environmental challenges, ensuring our region thrives in harmony with its natural landscape.
Join us in welcoming Susan Wilson aboard! Together, let's make a positive impact on our community and environment. 🌳
Welcome to Nicky our new Coordinator for Liverpool Plains and Gunnedah
🌱 Introducing Nicky Chirlian! 🌿
We're delighted to welcome Nicky to our Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) community! Nicky's journey from Sydney to Tamworth,
driven by her family's passion for breeding Murray Grey cattle, has led her on a remarkable path of environmental stewardship and community
engagement.
With a background in Speech Pathology spanning over four decades, Nicky has dedicated her career to supporting children and adults with
disabilities across South Australia, Armidale, and Quirindi. In 2010, she embarked on a new chapter, joining her partner in implementing
regenerative practices in land and grazing management on the Liverpool Plains.
Nicky's expertise lies in soil and water conservation and improvement, complemented by her training in Holistic Management. Her decade-long
involvement, including chairing Upper Mooki Landcare Inc, demonstrates her deep commitment to sustainable land practices.
Through her active engagement with Upper Mooki Landcare Inc, Nicky has facilitated numerous workshops with high profile Australian and
international educators, earning recognition for the group's efforts in 2021 as the NSW Community Landcare Group.
Moreover, Nicky's connections with the local and regional Kamilaroi people reflect her dedication to fostering meaningful relationships and
cultural exchange through Landcare activities.
As a member of the Tamworth Regional Landcare Committee and North West Landcarers group, Nicki has honed her understanding of regional
Landcare issues, positioning her as a valuable asset to our community.
Join us in extending a warm welcome to Nicky! Together, let's continue to cultivate a sustainable future for our region. 🌳
Nemingha Community Garden Open Day
On Sunday April 14 approximately 40 people gathered at the Nemingha Community Garden to discover the incredible benefits of composting and
learn about the vital role microbiology plays in nurturing our soil.
Attendees indulged in a number of delicious dishes all made by members, from fresh produce picked from the garden and the resident bearded
dragon even made and appearance and got a new name!!
The community garden is in Railway St Nemingha, and started as just an idea approximately 12 months ago. The garden is now in full
operation, with multiple fruit and vegie species being planted and harvested regularly.
Terry and Karen Balla from ‘Merlin Dorpers’, Attunga, shared their experience and advice on the value of quality compost. The Balla’s
brought a ute load of compost, made on their property for the community garden and attendees got to feel, smell and even taste!!
Community Garden Members also shared there compost making skills with attendees with a hands-on compost workshop. The group is planning to
follow on from the success of Sundays open garden event with a Bee Day, a workshop teaching how to make bee habitats in your own garden.
Community Garden Open Day
🌱🌻 Exciting Announcement! 🌻🌱
Join us at the Nemingha Community Garden Open Day on April 14th at 10:30 am! 🎉
Discover the incredible benefits of composting and learn about the vital role microbiology plays in nurturing our soils. 🌿🔬
We'll also be hosting a coin donation BBQ and serving morning tea to keep you fueled up for all the fun activities! ☕
Don't miss out! See you there at 18 Railway St, Nemingha NSW. Let's celebrate community and sustainable gardening together! 🌍💚
#NeminghaCommunityGarden #OpenDay #Sustainability #Composting #Microbiology #CommunityEvent
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Additional opening hours for our Nursery during Autumn
Exciting news! Landcare Nursery is thrilled to announce that we'll be extending our opening hours to include Saturdays from 9am to 2pm, starting Easter Weekend and continuing throughout the entire Autumn season. We can't wait to serve you better and help you with all your gardening needs!
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Wallabadah, what have we learnt about our water
Join us for a morning of reflection and learning as we revisit the outcomes of water and water related land management initiatives
undertaken in our community since 2018, with the support and assistance of Local Land Services, DPI, UNE and other technical experts,
including Martin O’Rourke. The focus of this event will be on what we have learned and what we can do about improving our future water
security as a community and as landholders.
Bush Tucker Workshop
23 March 2024 | TAMWORTH
Embark on a captivating journey of discovery as we delve into the realm of Traditional Australian Bush Tucker at our upcoming event. Led by
our esteemed Nursery Manager, Paul Moxon, this immersive experience will unveil the secrets of iconic plants such as Scurvy Weed, Darling
Lily, Native Raspberry, and the elusive Chocolate Lily and Vanilla Lily. Delve into the rich cultural heritage intertwined with these
indigenous plants as we learn about traditional harvesting methods, sustainable cultivation practices, and the profound significance they
hold in Australian history. Join us as we deepen our appreciation for the land and its traditional bounty
Grant writing and Project management Workshop
Attention all community groups!
Are you eager to turn your innovative ideas into impactful projects but unsure where to start? Join us for an exclusive Grant and Project
Writing Workshop!
In this interactive workshop, you'll learn:
Limited spots available, so reserve yours now
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Landcare Learning
Come and join us for our first Landcare Learning of 2024. We will be learning about Nature's Nooks: Urban Gardens Creating Haven for Both People and Wildlife. Our guest speaker is Eliza, a 32-year-old mother of two and part-time Medical Sonographer, resides in Tamworth with her husband Doug and children, Arthur and Freya. Settling in Tamworth in 2019, they constructed a resilient home in Moore Creek Gardens amidst drought and bushfires, prioritizing adaptability to extreme weather. Nell Chaffey will also do a short presentation on habitat stepping stones.
Come and join the TRLA team
Come and join the TRLA team. We are a happy cohesive team who like to work in hybrid roles which are split between working from home offices, in our nursery space and out in the environment. We have varied roles across the NW and Tamworth Region which may interest you. Check out the opportunities here...
Natural Capital Accounting Field Day
Discover how environmental condition can be measured, certified and communicated, PLUS learn practical field measures that give you a head start on your natural capital journey.
Media Release: TRLA Small grants now OPEN
Tamworth Regional Landcare Association Opens Small Grants for Environmental Initiatives...
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Plants in our pastures
Learn the names, nutritional value, growing periods, seasonal variation and toxicity of the plants in our pastures during Summer and what
they tell us about the soil beneath. Organised by Tamworth Regional Landcare Association supported by North West Local Land Services.
This is a free event with morning tea provided.
Christmas Beetles
Despite their name, Christmas Beetles aren't confined to the holiday season. The label "Christmas Beetle" is attributed to the beetle genus
Anoplognathus, denoting their appearance in early summer as they search for mates.
While these beetles hold a unique connection to Christmas, their distinctiveness hasn't shielded them from the consequences of urban
development. The expansion of housing into grassy woodland areas has resulted in a decline in their population in urban settings.
This summer, you have the opportunity to contribute to the efforts of coleopterists by actively counting Christmas Beetles in your
surroundings. Your observations become essential in monitoring and understanding their numbers.
Become part of a community of citizen science enthusiasts and document your Christmas beetle sightings on iNaturalist.org as part of the
Christmas Beetle Count project. With already over 10,000 records, your involvement adds valuable insights into the dynamics of Christmas
Beetle populations. Join the initiative at https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/christmas-beetle-count.
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