Landcare is all about ‘social’ ecology, getting people connecting and working together, Joël Dunn told a group attending the annual Trees in the House event at Parliament House in Sydney on Tuesday evening, November 14.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Dunn delivered his message to more than 80 MPs, government representatives and Landcare members from throughout the State
Hosted by Landcare NSW and the Parliamentary Friends of Landcare (PFL), the event showcased the success of the movement, which this year celebrated its 10th anniversary.
The local Landcare co-ordinator, who attended the even with Karuah and Great Lakes president Robyn Lamond, spoke about how Landcare in the Great Lakes was being reinvigorated as a result of the program.
Landcare NSW is responsible for State-wide initiatives such as the local Landcare co-ordinator initiative in partnership with Local Land Services.
The service employs more than 60 part-time co-ordinators to support Landcare across the State.
Joël Dunn spoke about how Landcare in the Great Lakes was being reinvigorated as a result of this initiative.
An active Landcare community is needed now more than ever
- Rob Dulhunty
“Whether it be supporting groups of landholders sharing their knowledge and ideas, or nurturing strong relationships with our partners at Hunter Local Land Services and MidCoast Council, the Local Landcare co-ordinator Initiative gives us vital support to build this social capital that we need to regenerate our natural capital,” Mr Dunn said.
Landcare NSW chair, Rob Dulhunty said: “Landcare NSW is proud of what is being achieved around the State through the local co-ordinators and State-wide support services.
"The environmental problems we face are too big for government or community alone.
“To protect our natural resources, we must share responsibility and work together in a genuine partnership.
“An active Landcare community is needed now more than ever.
“We’ve got an effective model, we just need to support it.”
PFL chair and Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson opened the event and acknowledged the 10 year anniversary of Landcare NSW and its significant and valuable role as the peak body for community Landcare.
“It’s not easy to start a community organisation from scratch so let’s mark this milestone and celebrate what has been achieved,” Mr Anderson said.
“I encourage MPs and MLCs who haven’t already joined, to sign up to the Parliamentary Friends of Landcare.
“Your local Landcare communities will be very appreciative and you will develop many new connections throughout your communities.
“I believe there is a real energy about Landcare, with community members of all ages keen to get involved.
“Nearly every weekend right across NSW you’ll see groups of people doing their bit, out and about looking after and improving our environment.”
The NSW PFL is a cross-party group of NSW Members of Parliament who have a common interest in demonstrating support for the goals of Landcare.
Members of Parliament were given a native seedling to take away and plant in their electorate which were provided by Sydney’s Habitat Community Nursery as a gift from Landcare.