Hastings Landcare recognised in Parliament for major community impact

HASTINGS Landcare has been formally recognised in the NSW Parliament for its outstanding contribution to environmental protection, community education and volunteer engagement across the Hastings region. 

Local MP Robert Dwyer acknowledged the organisation during a parliamentary address, praising Hastings Landcare volunteers as a driving force behind environmental stewardship and sustainability in the Port Macquarie electorate.

“I rise today to recognise the amazing volunteers at Hastings Landcare,” Mr Dwyer said.

“Through activities such as tree planting, habitat restoration and educational workshops, the group empowers individuals, rural landholders and communities to care for the land and protect local ecosystems.”

Established in 1995, Hastings Landcare is a community-owned, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the local environment while strengthening community connection.

The organisation currently has 230 paid members and more than 1,000 subscribers, supporting the work of 15 local Landcare groups throughout the Hastings region.

Last financial year alone, Landcare volunteers contributed more than 2,900 hours protecting and restoring biodiversity in local bushland.

Their work includes removing invasive weeds, collecting rubbish and planting native species across numerous sites. Hastings Landcare Coordinator Steve Allwood said Landcare offers a unique mix of purpose and connection. “Landcare is the perfect blend of achievement, connection and enjoyment,” Mr Allwood said.

“Achievement through protecting our natural world, connection to community, people and place, and the enjoyment and empowerment that comes from making a real, positive environmental impact.”

The organisation also runs a wide range of events aimed at building community resilience, including bush regeneration days, community planting events, clean-up days, educational workshops, ‘Bush Breathing’ mornings and nature journalling sessions.

Volunteer Lyndon Harris said joining Landcare has delivered both physical and social benefits.

“I have improved my level of mobility and muscle strength since becoming a Landcarer,” Mr Harris said.

“I feel closer to the community, and I’m always learning new things about weeds and native flora and fauna.”

Hastings Landcare also provides extensive support to private landholders, offering assistance with property planning, weed management, habitat restoration, threatened species protection and access to grant opportunities.

Local landholder Rowena Russell said the support had helped protect important wildlife habitat on her property.

“We have learned about the diversity of trees, shrubs and grasses on our property and how important this habitat is for wildlife, including the threatened Glossy Black Cockatoos,” Ms Russell said.

“Landcare helped us with strategies for keeping the land healthy and weed-free.”

In his parliamentary address, Mr Dwyer also recognised the leadership of coordinator Steve Allwood and Landcare Support Officer Robyn Camozzato, noting their role in guiding successful projects and expanding Landcare’s reach across the region.

Landcare Support Officer Robyn Camozzato said the organisation welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds. “Volunteering with Hastings Landcare is a great way to improve your social network, learn about the bush and make a positive impact on your local area and environment,” she said.

Hastings Landcare is open to anyone interested in volunteering, becoming a member or supporting its work.

More information is available at hastingslandcare.org.au, by phone on 0467 864 465, or via email at office@hastingslandcare.org.au.

By Luke HADFIELD