Celebrating Our Own –
Nell Chaffey Wins National Landcare Award

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that our very own Nell Chaffey has been recognised on the national stage, taking out the Women in Landcare Award at the 2025 National Landcare Awards on the Gold Coast.

Anyone who’s met Nell knows this recognition is well deserved. She has spent decades quietly but passionately caring for her patch of land and inspiring others to do the same. From restoring riparian zones and building habitat for woodland birds, to planting native understory for pollinators and improving soil health through regenerative practices, Nell’s work demonstrates how practical, on-ground action can heal landscapes over time. 

Nell is also a passionate advocate for education and community engagement. She has worked alongside schools, Landcare groups, and community members to share her knowledge, from identifying local flora and fauna to managing weeds and maintaining biodiversity on working farms. Her generosity with time and experience has inspired countless others to get involved and see that caring for Country is something everyone can do, in their own backyard or paddock. Nell’s approach has always been hands-on and heart-first.

At the awards ceremony, Nell spoke with her usual humility, saying she hopes the recognition shines a light on the incredible work of Landcare groups everywhere:

“It’s really about all of us working together to care for Country. Every small action adds up.”

We couldn’t be prouder to see a local champion representing our region and reminding the rest of Australia what community-driven land stewardship looks like.

Congratulations, Nell - and thank you for all you do to keep the Landcare spirit alive across the North West.


Latest News



Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides)

Meet Vetiver, a remarkable grass with deep roots and big benefits. Known for its ability to stabilise soil, reduce erosion, and filter runoff, Vetiver is a powerhouse for land restoration and water management. Its dense root system binds the soil, making it ideal for creek banks, dam edges, and steep slopes, while also providing habitat and shelter for insects and small wildlife. Tough, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, Vetiver is nature’s own erosion control expert.


Bird habitat plants

Discover four standout native plants that bring life to your garden and provide vital food and shelter for local birds. In this short video, we showcase Ruby Saltbush, a hardy shrub with vibrant berries loved by small birds; Midgen Berry, a sweet-fruited groundcover that attracts fruit-eaters; Prickly Blackthorn, a protective haven for nesting species; and Wonga Wonga Vine, a lush climber offering both nectar and cover. Together, these species create a thriving, bird-friendly habitat right in your backyard.


Burdekin plum (Pleiogynium timoriense)

The Burdekin Plum is a striking native tree that’s as beautiful as it is beneficial. Its glossy leaves and dark, plum-like fruits make it a standout feature in any landscape, while also providing an important food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife. Traditionally valued as a bush tucker plant, its fruit can be eaten raw or ripened off the tree for a rich, tangy flavour. Hardy and adaptable, the Burdekin Plum is perfect for creating shade, supporting biodiversity, and bringing a touch of the tropics to your garden.


Smooth Darling Pea (Swainsona galegifolia)

Native treasure!  The Smooth Darling Pea (Swainsona galegifolia) in full bloom! With pinnate grey-green leaves and a rainbow of pea-shaped flowers, it’s more than just a pretty face, it’s a nitrogen-fixer, a wildlife helper and a hardy garden star. Just a heads up: beautiful as it is, it’s not ideal for grazing zones.


Tamworth Peri Urban Pest Information Session

🐗 Take charge against pests in your patch!
Join North West Local Land Services, Tamworth Regional Council, and Tamworth Regional Landcare for a community info session on managing feral pigs, goats, and deer in your area.

📍 Nemingha Hall, 42–44 Back Kootingal Road, Nemingha
🗓 Thursday 14 November 2025
9:30 am – 11:30 am

 Learn about control options, trapping techniques, disease safety, and meet your local Biosecurity Officer.
Don’t miss this chance to get practical, on-ground advice to protect your property and the environment!


Get in Touch - Soil Workshop

A group of local farmers gathered at the Currabubula Hotel early on 27th September to hear farmers Ian Pine, Amy Perfrement, Neville Watts and James Filby present a range of information on the beneficial effects of soil organisms and their use as a measure of soil health, and their interaction with agriculture.

Our members often say that when you become part of Landcare, you’re not just joining a group, you’re becoming part of a family. The concept is so compatible with Australian culture it’s hard not to get involved! By becoming a TRLA member, you’ll be supporting our work, learning new skills, becoming part of the solution, and helping to make a difference for the future.

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together we can make a difference

funding support

Did you know (TRLA) run an Annual Small Grants program for Landcare activities connected to the Tamworth region.

Volunteer Landcare and Grassroots Community groups can apply up to $2,500 for activities that meet an objective of TRLA’s strategic plan with eight successful projects being awarded funds from across the region.

APPLY NOW APPLY NOW