Landcare Boost - The Rural

The Rural
19 March 2015
By Nikki Reynolds

A funds injection of $15 million for Landcare groups would benefit the organisation enormously says Murrumbidgee Landcare Incorporated executive officer Marion Benjamin

"If this comes through as described it would make a profound difference," she said.

The pledge announcement from the State Government came this week and Ms Benjamin said it was a response from years of lobbying by local groups.

"It is responding to a call that has been coming form community Landcare groups since 2004 so locally-based coordinators can be employed," she said.

Initially those roles were funded, however the organisation lost the support in 2004.

"At every single committee meeting I have been to since 2004 this issue has come up," Ms Benjamin said. The funding will come to fruition if the coalition government wins the state election.

Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson said the commitment recognised the role of more than 3000 community-based Landcare groups.

"The NSW Government is committed to improved management of our natural environment, and Landcare NSW is our significant partner, " Ms Hodgkinson said.

"We recognise the vital role local Landcare volunteers play in successfully restoring and sustainably managing our local environments and industries.

"These groups work to rehabilitate landscapes which have been degraded over time, leading to healthier ecosystems and more sustainable and productive land.

"With this funding we will work to build the capacity of local Landcare, and other groups, to improve their skills and to assist them to deliver on-ground projects well into the future," said Ms Hodgkinson.

She said the success of Landcare across Australia had been built on partnerships between governments and the community.

"The $15 million in funding will renew the NSW partnership and unlock the potential of thousands of volunteers.

"The funding will deliver an extensive network of locally-based facilitators who will work with local Landcare groups to deliver the lcoal programs as well as providing support and guidance.

"Most importantly 60,000 volunteers will continue with their projects, protect their local environment and ensure it is sustainable," said Ms Hodgkinson.