Upper Peel Landcare Group


The Upper Peel Landcare Group (UPLG) was formed in March 2012 with the aim of continuing and expanding upon the projects initiated by the now superseded Nundle Woody Weeds Committee. The group has grown to include twenty enthusiastic members. Meetings are irregular and on a needs basis with all members notified.

Since its inception UPLG has targeted the removal of invasive and environmental weeds such as Privet, Pyracantha, Blackberry and Honey Locust by doing this work they have attempted to restore a natural balance for local wildlife, such as small birds, which have been predated by an out of proportion number of Currawong that thrived on the abundance of woody weed seed. Removal of Privet has also had the advantage of easing the suffering seasonal hay fever and asthma sufferers; something which will only improve with further planned removals.

Over the past 4 years the group has managed to expand native habitat corridors by planting thousands of suitable indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses with the result being not only the continuing restoration of the river environment but creation of bird corridors in the Travelling Stock Route (TSR). The unofficial walking track along the TSR has become a mecca for birdwatchers and tourists alike. The rehabilitation of the riparian zone has also assisted the local and endangered Booroolong Frog which calls the Peel River home.

As a riparian education strategy UPLG has worked with closely with the community by running Carp Musters as well as night walks to view nocturnal wildlife.

In 2021 UPLG is working with Nundle Library to create a Community Garden. Seeds collected from produce will also be distributed through the CNRL Seed Library.

Upper Peel Landcare Group members Nick Bradford, Rachel Webster, and Megan Trousdale with guest Michael Mobbs. Photo: Sally Alden


READY TO CATCH: Upper Peel Landcare Group members Kay Deaves and Karlee Burgess readying their rods for the Nundle to Chaffey Dam Carp Muster on the Peel River. Photo: NDL

The UPLG would like the acknowledge the ongoing assistance from the NSW Intensive Correctional Organisation who provide labour without which it would have been impossible to achieve so much in so little time. As a very small group we are so dependent on such assistance.

If you would like to join our group please contact Kerrie (0429 816 472).


Latest News



Empowering the Peel Valley: WaterInsights Presentation Recap

On Tuesday, September 17, we hosted a special presentation at the UNE Centre in Tamworth, introducing the WaterInsights platform managed by WaterNSW. Our guest speaker, Kate Masters, provided an in-depth walkthrough of how water is managed and shared across New South Wales, with a focus on the Peel Valley.


Nemingha Community Garden and Open Day and Workshop

If you're passionate about bees and want to learn more about creating bee hotels, come along to a hands-on workshop at the Nemingha Community Garden on September 28. Dean Heemskerk will be leading the session, sharing his expertise on how to support local bee populations. It’s a great opportunity to get practical tips and make a difference in your own backyard!


Biodiversity in our community

This workshop is hosted by Gunnible Landcare Inc and has been funded by the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust. It is presented by Liz Blair, Ecologist from Ecosystem Thinking. You will learn about the power and richness of the Liverpool Plains ecosystems; what fauna is out there, where they live and why they matter; the importance of landscape management options for remnant, recovering and recreated ecosystems, and how to bring fauna back through landscape connections.


Special Screening of The Blind Sea

Join Us for a Special Screening of The Blind Sea

We are excited to invite you to a screening of The Blind Sea, an inspiring and breathtaking documentary featuring Jacqui’s brother, Matt Formston—an Australian Paralympian and 4x World Champion blind surfer. Diagnosed with Macular Dystrophy at the age of five, Matt has defied the odds, overcoming judgment and prejudice to succeed at the highest level, both in and out of the water.

This thought-provoking documentary not only explores Matt’s remarkable career but also his attempt to break the world record for a blind surfer by tackling the monster waves of Nazaré. Alongside insights from surfing legends like Layne Beachley AO, Sam Bloom, and Joel Parkinson, Matt’s story is sure to inspire, especially as he aims to motivate the next generation.

This screening is also a fantastic opportunity for our network to come together, connect, and enjoy an uplifting evening. Bring a friend and join us for a night of adventure and community!

We hope to see you there!

Watch the trailer here




Bendemeer Primary Students Plant the Seeds of the Future for Koalas


On Friday, 13th September, Bendemeer Primary School students took a step towards a brighter future for our local wildlife by planting 28 ribbon gums along the banks of the Macdonald River. These trees, chosen for their potential to form future koala corridors, will provide vital habitats and contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect our beloved koalas.


Building Biodiversity: Insect Hotels for Every Garden

Whether you have a small urban backyard or sprawling farmland, building an insect hotel can significantly boost biodiversity in your garden. Insect hotels, made from natural or recycled materials, provide much-needed shelter for various beneficial insects, from pollinators like native bees to natural pest controllers such as ladybugs and lacewings. These tiny workers are crucial for healthy ecosystems, ensuring the survival of flowering plants and protecting crops from harmful pests.

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.

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