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Introducing the 2026 TRLA Photography Competition


In 2026, the world celebrates the International Year of Volunteers 2026, recognising the incredible contribution volunteers make to communities everywhere—and here in our region, we see that impact every day. This year, Tamworth Regional Landcare Association’s Photography Competition invites you to capture those moments of generosity, connection, and quiet dedication through your lens.

From Landcare tree plantings and wildlife care, to healthcare support, community events, local committees, parkruns, and everyday acts of kindness—volunteers are at the heart of it all. Whether it’s muddy boots in the field, hands helping hands, or shared smiles over a job well done, we want to see the many ways people give their time and energy to support others and the environment.

So start snapping now! Keep your camera close and your eyes open—those powerful, authentic moments are happening all around you. Entries will open in September, giving you plenty of time to build a collection of images that celebrate the spirit of volunteering in our community.

Keep watching this space for more information!



Latest News

Have your say on waterway approvals

Have you tried to get planning approval for works to protect or rehabilitate your riverbank from flooding?

As part of the Riverbank Rehabilitation Project, Local Land Services is undertaking work to better understand the challenges landholders experience when seeking approvals for waterways and riverbank works across NSW.

This project includes an anonymous survey to capture insights on the time, cost, effort and approval processes landholders navigate when undertaking riverbank rehabilitation works, and to identify where improvements could be made to better support landholders in the future.

Welcoming The New Committee of Gunnible Landcare Inc

Gunnible Landcare Inc has some new faces following a recent AGM and welcome a new Committee:

 The Executive Committee  for 2026 – 27 is:

President:  Geoff Hood.   

Vice President:  Ian Pine. 

Secretary:  Lynette  Sanson. 

Treasurer:  Margaret Hood.  

 Gunnible Landcare Inc has conducted environmentally focused projects in the Gunnedah area since 1997! 






 

Flying Ferals - Networking Event For Feral Bird Control

A casual get together for anyone concerned about feral birds like the Common (Indian) Myna and Common Starling. The event aims to bring together likeminded people, together with the key supporters of the Tamworth LGA Feral Bird Control Program.

Tamworth Birdwatchers Inc will be launching the feral bird control trailer, funded by Tamworth Regional Council and made locally by the Tamworth Community Men’s Shed. The trailer, to be parked on Council land, will offer local residents a free and convenient option for the humane disposal of feral birds trapped at home. 

Joe Maguire's Pub, 146-148 Peel St, Tamworth, NSW

Wednesday, May 13 from 4:30 – 7pm.

Introducing the 2026 TRLA Photography Competition

In 2026, the world celebrates the International Year of Volunteers 2026, recognising the incredible contribution volunteers make to communities everywhere—and here in our region, we see that impact every day. This year, Tamworth Regional Landcare Association’s Photography Competition invites you to capture those moments of generosity, connection, and quiet dedication through your lens.

Roaming Pet Cats On Native Wildlife

Currawong Park Volunteers are making a powerful impact at a local level—bringing the community together to care of a small pocket of urban habitat. Through a recent letterbox drop and a feature on 7NEWS (aired 21 April, with spokespersons Lyn Allen, Phil Spark and Penny Milson), the group is shining a light on an issue that often goes unnoticed: the impact of roaming pet cats on native wildlife.

A Deep Dive into Soil, Water and the Little Critters in Our Environment – SCHOOLS Biodiversity Day


We invite primary schools within approximately 100 km of Bingara to take part in a full-day, hands-on excursion, delivered in conjunction with Carbon 8, TRLA and LLS.

Students will engage in practical learning experiences exploring soil health, water cycles, biodiversity, and the important role farming families play in supporting resilient communities.


Landcare Learning

Landcare Learning - The New Peasants Documentary: Urban & Peri Urban Food Production.

Discover how a new generation is transforming the way we grow and share food at our screening of The New Peasant this May 12.
Stay for a lively Q&A with local experts and community gardeners,
and follow the link to register or learn more.

TRLA Open Day Sneak Peek

A Little sneak peek into what's going to be on offer at our Nursery Open day on Saturday 18th April!!

A big thank you to McCarthy Catholic Collage Environment Club!

The Friends of Moore Creek Caves Reserve would like to thank the Environment Club at McCarthy Catholic Collage and the science teacher Shaun Nichols who runs the group.

 Several large bags of shredded paper the students recycled was donated to the Friends of Moore Creek Caves Reserve and used for mulching around new and old plantings as well as adding organic cover to some bare areas.  We hope this partnership continues well into the future!

TRLA Nursery Open Day!🌱

Come along on Saturday, 18th April (9am–3pm) at 300 Wallamore Road, West Tamworth and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly day out. Explore the nursery, chat with friendly volunteers & staff and browse a great range of native plants for sale!!

Don’t miss the hands-on composting workshop with Dr Ernie Harbott, a great chance to learn practical tips for your garden and great for anyone wanting to improve soil health & reduce waste. 

This is a free community event Bring the whole family and enjoy a day connecting with nature!

Native Bees, Big Impact: Community Comes Together for Pollinators and Urban Biodiversity

TRLA recently hosted two inspiring back-to-back events with native bee educator Clancy Lester, better know as the Bee Man, highlighting the critical role of pollinators and the power of community-driven conservation.

Kicking off at Landcare Learning on Tuesday 17 March, Clancy captivated a crowd of over 50 attendees from across the region. His engaging presentation explored the fascinating world of native bees and their relationship with local plants, and how simple actions-

2026 State & Territory Landcare Awards

The 2026 State and Territory Landcare Awards stand as a prestigious biennial national Landcare Awards program. The Landcare Awards honour individuals, groups and organisations that are making outstanding contributions to caring for the environment in their local communities for the benefit of all Australians today, and for generations to come.

In each state and territory, the Landcare Awards will be granted to recognise the achievements that encompass climate action, environmental leadership, sustainable agriculture, First Nations Peoples, women in landcare, youth, Coastcare and children.

Join the Intrepid Landcare Movement!

Come and be part of the INTREPID LANDCARE fun!

An exciting and innovative opportunity has emerged for environmentally conscious young people in our community. The Tamworth Regional Landcare Association (TRLA) has launched an Intrepid Landcare Group, designed specifically for individuals from their mid-teens through to their mid-30s.

This initiative invites schools, students, and passionate individuals to get involved in hands-on environmental activities, connect with like-minded peers, and make a real difference locally.

Buzzing with Learning: Bee Hotel Workshop Inspires Students at Kurrawong Park!

On Wednesday, 18 March, students (together with their parents/guardians) at Kurrawong Park in Tamworth enjoyed an engaging and hands-on bee hotel workshop with Clancy Lester, the “Bee Man.”

Clancy was an incredible presenter, and students were captivated by his knowledge and enthusiasm. They thoroughly enjoyed his presentation while learning how to build a variety of bee hotels using different materials and designs to support native bee populations.

North West Local Land Services - March & April Events

The Latest Calendar for any upcoming events hosted by the North West Local Land Services in March & April. 

Know Your General Biosecurity Duty

Do you know your General Biosecurity Duty?

These are some vital tips and resources to help prevent, eliminate and minimise pests, weeds, diseases and their impacts!!

The Fuel & Drought Crisis - Real Solutions Real Farmers

The Fuel & Drought Crisis - Real Solutions Real Farmers!🌾
Farming is tough right now from rising fuel costs, ongoing drought, and plenty of uncertainty. This two-day workshop at Warrah Creek Hall is all about practical, real-world solutions from people who understand what you’re facing. Join Kevin Elmy and Mike McCosker to learn simple, proven ways to build healthier soils, cut input costs, and improve resilience.🌾April 9–10, 2026
📍 Warrah Creek Hall
🍽 Morning tea & lunch provided

Bring your questions and come have a chat!

WildSeek Supports the Conservation and Rescue of Koalas and Other Native Species

Tamworth Regional Landcare Association became a WildSeek Community Hub in 2022. The project received three years of funding to help identify koala populations within the Namoi Valley Region. In its first year, Landcare Australia with Queensland University of Technology (QUT) assisted the WildSeek Community Hub in obtaining equipment, survey methodology training, guidance in CASA approval for obtaining their RePL (Remote Pilot Licence) and ReOC (Remote Operator Certification).  

Transforming Farm Dams into Ecological Assets Coca-Cola Australia and Landcare Australia

At Cheyenne Dam in Somerton, NSW, our own Wayne and Nell Chaffey have transformed a drought-degraded farm dam into a thriving ecological asset through a project supported by the Coca-Cola Australia Foundation and Landcare Australia.
This project has already seen some great results from local native waterbirds retuning and improvement of habitat, it is a great model of combining farm productivity with environmental stewardship.

Weathering the Seasons: Cover Crops for Climate Smart Farming

Join Local Land Services for a practical, hands-on workshop exploring how cover crops can improve soil health and build resilience on your farm.

📅 Monday 16 March 2026
📍 Emerald Hill Community Hall

Hear from industry experts, see a live roller-crimper demonstration, and learn about soil health, moisture outlooks and climate-smart farming practices.

Intrepid Landcare Property Tour – Kamilaroi Cattle Company

Intrepid Landcare Property Tour – Kamilaroi Cattle Company

 Last Saturday, 1st March, Intrepid Landcare participants gathered at Kamilaroi Cattle Company for a truly outstanding and insightful property tour hosted by Charlie Thurgate.With a good group of engaged attendees, the day was marked by thoughtful questions, open discussion and genuine curiosity.

Composting Workshop With Dr Ernie Harbott

🌱 Composting with Dr Ernie Harbott 🌱

Join North West Local Land Services for a hands-on composting workshop in Tamworth! Learn simple, practical skills to create healthy, productive soil using sustainable methods.

🗓 Saturday, 18 April 2026
⏰ 9:00am – 3:00pm
📍 Tamworth Landcare Nursery, 300 Wallamore Rd, Westdale

TRLA Small Grants Program

Applications are now open for the Tamworth Regional Landcare Association Small Grants Program — a great opportunity to bring your local environmental or community project to life. Funding is available for practical, on-ground activities that support biodiversity, sustainability, and community engagement across our region. Get your ideas in before March 1 and let us help turn them into action!

Meet Clancy Lester (The Bee Man) - Coming To Tamworth

If you’ve heard the buzz about native bees lately, chances are you’ve come across Clancy Lester — affectionately known as “The Bee Man.” Clancy is an environmental educator and researcher, focusing on Australia’s incredible native bees!

Landcare Learning - With Clancy Lester

You may have seen that Clancy Lester, also known as The Bee Man, is heading to Tamworth! Before building bee hotels at Currawong Park, Clancy will be our guest speaker at Landcare Learning on March 17 at UNE centre, where he’ll explore Australia’s native bees, their relationship with flowering plants, and simple, practical actions we can all take to support biodiversity.  This is a free event, with light refreshments but please visit the link and register to secure your seat. If you have any questions, please contact Susan – susan@trla.org.au or 0400590776

A Guided Bird Walk On The Farm

Join North West Local Land Services in Winton/Tamworth on 11 March (9:00am-12:00pm) for a fascinating morning exploring birds led by bird ecologist Steve Debus and local birdwatchers Alex Hunt and Denise Kane!

This engaging morning will explore topics such as recent bird surveys and the results of these surveys, the impact of farming practices on bird diversity and habitat features to support birdlife and much more.

Whether you're a landholder, bird enthusiast or simply curious about nature this is a fantastic opportunity to learn, connect and enjoy the outdoors.

Landcare Leadership Program – Chaffey Dam | 27–28 March

We’re excited to share an upcoming opportunity for young people to grow their leadership skills, connect with like-minded changemakers, and take part in hands-on environmental action.

The Landcare Leadership Program will be held at Chaffey Dam on 27–28 March and is open to young people aged 13–35.

Keeping Your Plants Going in the Extremes of Summer Heat

Our North West Slopes / Namoi Valley has its own very particular mix of heat, wind, clay soils and brutal dry spells. Below is advice that is informed by our hot summers, cracking clays, exposure, and regeneration-scale plantings. It also has application to suburban gardens  

North West Slopes & Namoi Valley (Bush Regeneration Plantings)

 


Now’s the Time to Plan for Autumn Tree Planting

Planting trees is a long-term investment in the health, productivity and resilience of your property. While the act of planting may still be a few months away, now is the ideal time to start planning and preparing for your autumn planting program, a season widely recognised as the most successful time to establish farm trees.

Exploring Grassy Box Woodlands and Wildlife Corridors

On 15 December, around 35 enthusiastic community members joined TRLA for a fascinating Grassy Box Woodland Field Trip, visiting Klori Travelling Stock Reserve (TSR) at Somerton for a morning session.

Blackville TreeTroff Update

Following my initial report on the TreeTroff installation at Blackville Public School on 4th November, I made  a quick trip out to Blackville Public School on 15th December. 

This was  an opportunity for staff, students and myself to gain more understanding of the process of the TreeTroff equipment and program...

Upper Mooki Landcare’s Creekbank Stabilization and Water Management workshop

28 Landowners attended Upper Mooki Landcare’s Creekbank Stabilization and Water Management workshop on 15th November.  Presented by landowner and UMLC member Roger Ottery, and UMLC Chair Andrew Wylie, the day was well planned, enabling participants to visit 3 varying sites.  These included observation of a new paddock swale with spill, use of embedded logs to direct creek water flow,  and a demonstration of making and placing Rock Bags and a Rock Mattress directly into the creek.  The day was beautifully catered for by UMLC members and finished with a BBQ on the creek and much ongoing dialogue.  Feedback was very positive and included requests for return visits to monitor the progress of the sites. 

Save the Date for Landcare Adventure 2026

Mark your calendars for next year's Landcare Adventure and Regional Landcare Awards!  Speakers include Ian and Di Haggerty, Bruce Maynard, Pip Jones and many more

GYL Cupp & Catchup

GYL Cupp & Catchup

A reminder for Gomeroi Yinarr members and friend to join GYL for a warm Cuppa & Catch-Up on Saturday 21st December.

The catchups provide a gentle space to yarn, breathe out, reconnect, and share some end-of-year joy together.
Bring your stories, your laughter, your sisterhood — and we’ll bring the cuppas.

“Discover a Hidden Woodland Gem: Klori TSR Field Trip with Ecologist David Carr”

Join us for a guided bus trip to the Klori Travelling Stock Route near Somerton with ecologist David Carr from Stringybark Ecological. Explore a rare remnant grassy-box woodland rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, and learn about the conservation value of these unique ecosystems. We’ll then visit the McVeigh family property, “Aytonlea,” Winton, where over 7,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted to create a thriving, biodiverse landscape. The day will conclude with lunch at Aytonlea and an opportunity to reflect on how thoughtful land management can balance conservation and productivity across our rural environments.

An exciting and innovative opportunity for environmentally conscious youth is on the horizon!

Come and join the fun!🤩 
An exciting and innovative opportunity for environmentally conscious youth is on the horizon!

The Tamworth TRLA is establishing an INTREPID LANDCARE GROUP targeted at individuals ranging from their mid-teens to their mid-30s. We encourage schools, school students, and interested individuals to contact us if this initiative piques your interest. What actions can Intrepid Landcare take to empower you, young individuals, and communities to engage in meaningful activities? Enabling stuff that happens- Intrepid Landcare Australia (https://intrepidlandcare.org/enabling-stuff-that-happens/) 

Contact: Kate Spry 

Email: kate@trla.orga.au 

Ph: 0428 267 912

Community Takes Action on Common ‘Indian’ Myna Tamworth

Community Takes Action on Common ‘Indian’ Myna Tamworth

If you’ve spent time around Tamworth’s Peel Street cafés, you’ve probably noticed the cheeky Indian Mynas darting between tables, snatching crumbs, and leaving more than a little mess behind. While they might look harmless, these introduced birds are a serious pest — and local community members are banding together to do something about it.

Blackville Public School has joined the TreeTroff Program!

On Tuesday I (Liverpool Plains and Gunnedah Local Landcare Coordinator) had the great pleasure of joining the students and staff of Blackville Public School, and Wes Leedham and Carl Holmsby  from the NSW DET Environmental Education Centre at Coonabarabran, to install a Tree Troff in the playground. 

2025 Landcare conference videos and ressources

Did you miss the landcare conference? If so, You can now watch all the speaker presentation videos from the 2025 National Landcare Conference, and the 2025 National Landcare Awards event online. We have also published over 50 poster presentations that were on display at the conference. 

SOIL: Rewilding the Underground

I know we have a few people among us who has an interest in soils, or if you just want to learn a bit more check out this podcast which was sent to us by Helen. If anyone else has any resources they would like to share let us know!. Thank you Helen 🙏

https://open.spotify.com/show/3GTWyj92WzwyW7iLmc8sY9?si=Kw5BkEn8RdyqeaEhiuqunQ

Don’t miss out on Early Bird tickets, now on sale for @Wilmot Field Day 2026.

Wilmot Field Day brings together global experts in the field of nature friendly farming and invites you through the farmgate to see regenerative grazing and farming practices in action.

Walk through the paddocks with regen ag expert @Allen Wiliams (USA), jump into a soil pit with Dr @Susan Orgill of @Impact Ag Australia, or join a candid discussion on the future of our food system with farmers who are forging new market pathways.

Whether you’re passionate about soils, pastures, plants or livestock, you can be sure to find something on the program to spark your interest.

Tickets are discounted for a limited time only. Find them here:https://wilmotfieldday.com.au/tickets/

Vetiver (Chrysopogon filipes)

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.

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.

Graeme Sait Workshop

Upper Mooki Landcare Inc was fortunate to be offered 4 hours of Graeme Sait’s (Nutritech) time on 8th October 2025.  This intensive short workshop was attended by 28 farmers from Delungra, Gunnedah, Tamworth and the local area who gave extremely positive feedback on the event. 

Landcare Learning - Trivia Night

TRLA invites you to join us for a fun-filled Trivia Night to wrap up 2025! Come along on Friday, November 21, at 6:00 PM for a 6:30 start, at the Ibis Styles Motel Ebsworth St, West Tamworth ,for an evening of laughs, prizes, and community connection. Grab your friends and test your knowledge over drinks, canapes, and good company! You may even win a prize !!!!

Lessons from the Land - The Sheep Producer Session

Webinar hosted by LLS

When times get tough, there’s no shortage of technical advice – but what’s often missing are the real, practical insights from producers who’ve lived it. This session is designed especially for sheep producers, offering candid reflections and advice from NSW sheep producers who have faced dry times firsthand.  

Tune in to hear stories, gain insights, ask questions, and take away practical strategies. This session will cover managing flock health and nutrition during dry periods, making critical farm management decisions, adapting farm practices for resilience, and navigating the personal and family challenges that come with tough seasons. 

Why join? 

  • A session tailored specifically for sheep producers 
  • Real stories and strategies from producers on the ground 
  • Engage in discussion, ask questions, and sharpen your strategy for tough seasons 


Register now to secure your spot and be part of this valuable conversation. 

Nemingha Community Garden Open Day & Workshop

Come along to the Nemingha Community Garden and enjoy a fun, hands-on day outdoors while learning new gardening skills. This month’s theme is Organic Pest Control, with special guest speaker Sean Tobin from Heemskerks Nursery.

What’s happening on the day:
✨ Free BBQ lunch
🎟 Raffle prizes (cash only)
🌱 Hands-on activity – take home your creation
🌻 Guided tours of the garden and a neighbouring garden
🍅 Market swap table – bring produce to swap or purchase (cash only)
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly fun – children welcome!

Please bring your own chair.

NO RSVP NEEDED

Regen Farmers Pub Meetup

Join us for an informal evening of conversation and connection with other regenerative farmers and like-minded landholders.
Share stories, ideas, and inspiration over dinner and drinks in a relaxed setting.

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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






PO Box 7118, NEMSC
Tamworth NSW 2348
info@trla.org.au
www.trla.org.au



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Mari ngiyani winangaylanha ganunga-waanda yanaylanha, dhaymaarr ganugu-waanda nhama ngarrangarranmaldanhi. [We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the first people and custodians of this land] Gomeroi People are the traditional custodians of the waterways and the land on which we work and live. Tamworth Regional Landcare Association pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal people.

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