A MASSIVE dust storm that blanketed Melbourne in 1983 shone a light on the impact of unsustainable agricultural practices and became a catalyst for a grassroots partnership between farmers and conservationists.
That cooperative initiative formed Landcare, a movement with over 100,000 volunteers across the country who are dedicated to restoring local bushland, coastlines, and sustainable agriculture.
In support of this the NSW Government’s Landcare Enabling Program (LEP) in partnership with Local Land Services has allocated $1.27 million in funding for North Coast Regional Landcare Network (NCRLN).
The NSW Government has described this as a significant investment in environmental stewardship, climate resilience and Aboriginal partnership across the region.
Locally, Hastings Landcare Incorporated has been allocated $36,374, with coordinator Stephen Allwood telling News Of The Area the group would use the funds well.
“We’re delighted to receive this funding, which will allow Hastings Landcare to expand opportunities for our community to get involved in caring for the environment while strengthening partnerships across the region,” Mr Allwood said.
“From seed collecting and wildlife workshops to supporting people’s connection with nature, this investment will help build local knowledge, skills and resilience.
“We’re especially pleased to be working alongside the Gathangga Walkulda Language Centre to support the development of a local Seasonal Calendar.
“This project recognises the importance of Aboriginal knowledge and cultural connections to Country, and we’re proud to contribute to an initiative that brings together community, culture and environmental stewardship for future generations.”
Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer MP welcomes the funding injection and is particularly pleased to see investment in Aboriginal leadership and partnerships through the Walking Together program.
“As the oldest continuing culture in the world, Aboriginal communities have cared for Country for tens of thousands of years,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Supporting stronger partnerships between Landcare and Aboriginal organisations creates opportunities to share knowledge, strengthen cultural connections, and achieve better environmental outcomes.”
By Rachael THORPE
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