Wentworth Show: Best Trade Exhibit – Western Landcare Engagement and Education
At the 2025 Wentworth Show, Western Landcare presented an interactive exhibit promoting local environmental initiatives and community engagement. Featuring Junior Landcare activities and discussions on pest control, grazing management, and biodiversity, the display fostered environmental awareness across Western NSW and earned the award for Best Trade Exhibit.
Capacity building - LEP23-021-32
The issue
Our team recognised a gap in community engagement around local environmental challenges, particularly among younger audiences. While Western Landcare and other agencies, had targeted regional programs, there were limited interactive and inclusive opportunities for the public to learn about invasive species, natural capital, sustainable farming, and local biodiversity. The challenge was to create a space at the Wentworth Show that encouraged meaningful discussion, youth engagement through Junior Landcare, and a showcase of regional priorities and achievements.
The solution
Western Landcare Coordinators designed an interactive exhibit showcasing key initiatives in biodiversity, rangeland, pest and weed management, sustainable agriculture, and the Life and Light Photography Competition. Junior Landcare displays engaged children through planting and native-themed activities, while staff facilitated discussions on local environmental priorities. Supported by partners including the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program and Western Local Land Services, the exhibit exemplified genuine community collaboration.
The impact
The exhibit served as a hub for environmental education and conversation, attracting over 1,200 visitors, including 150 children in Junior Landcare activities, and earned Best Trade Exhibit at the Wentworth Show. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of Landcare initiatives such as biodiversity and rangeland rehabilitation, pest management, sustainable grazing, and community-led monitoring. The Life and Light Photography Competition further inspired pride in regional landscapes and strengthened connections across the Western Landcare network.
Learnings
Junior Landcare activities attracted strong family engagement, localised environmental discussions lead to new memberships and project discussions. Visual exhibits and photography deepened emotional connections to place.
Limited staff reduced opportunities to engage all visitors, some attendees wanted additional hands‑on, digital, or take‑home resources.
Key facts
- Engagement: 1,200 + visitors, 150+ Junior Landcare participants
- Focus Areas: Youth engagement, grazing management, biodiversity awareness, membership recruitment
- Feature Showcase: Life and Light Photography Competition