Far East Victoria Landcare is set to conclude a vibrant and productive year with three exciting community events,
each offering opportunities to learn, connect and celebrate.
Next year marks the 40th anniversary of Landcare – an important milestone for the movement across Australia.
– November 28, Marlo Landcare: Plants That Shape Our Shore
Held at the Marlo Angling Club, this presentation explores the coastal plants that define, stabilise, and protect our shoreline.
– December 4, Jarrahmond Landcare: Hidden Worlds of Owls and Oceans
Taking place at the Orbost Arts Centre, this session delves into the remarkable lives of nocturnal birds, the unseen mysteries beneath coastal waters and more.
– December 6, Snowy West Landcare Sub-groups: Picnic in the Rainforest
Held at the Orbost Rainforest Centre, community members are invited to enjoy an informal picnic surrounded by lush rainforest.
Visitors can also take a walk through the gardens to appreciate the dedication of the small team of volunteers who maintain this beautiful space.
The region’s seven Landcare groups have now completed their AGMs and filled committee positions.
“Sometimes it can be a challenge filling committee roles, particularly in very small communities,” local Landcare facilitator, Josh Puglisi said.
“Groups are streamlining administrative tasks by combining meetings with other committees, such as hall committees, or running meetings alongside events that attract a broader range of people.”
Volunteers across Far East Landcare have delivered another energetic year, continuing work on dozens of properties to plant shelterbelts, fence wetlands, creeks and dams, and restore natural habitats.
Once considered niche activities, these practices are now widely recognised for their economic and aesthetic benefits.
Josh recently attended a presentation on volunteer motivation.
“People want to feel valued, welcomed, and that their contribution matters,” he said.
“With this in mind, we do our best to make sure everyone feels they have a place
in Landcare.”
A recent Topsoils event in Genoa brought together farmers from remote areas to share knowledge on improving agricultural productivity.
The day also provided a rare and valuable opportunity for social connection.
Josh said it has been particularly rewarding to work with smaller Landcare groups this year.
“Despite increasing administrative demands, these groups remain determined to keep achieving positive outcomes for their communities.”
Planning is already underway for next year’s program as Landcare celebrates 40 years.
Highlights will include an upgraded Landcare Expo featuring Pip Courtney from Landline, the unveiling of a new painted
mural transforming an ageing shed into a community landmark, and a Far East tour organised by Cann Valley Landcare to showcase remote and rarely seen locations across the region.
Far East Victoria Landcare continues its partnership with Moogji Nursery and Moogji Crews to protect and enhance the unique natural environments of the region.
For more information, visit fevl.org.au or drop into the Landcare office next door to the Orbost Post Office.
