The solution

Brunswick Valley Landcare (BVL) applied to participate in the Landcare NSW Managing Established Pest Animals and Weeds Project facilitated by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and were successful in receiving funding to undertake two invasive species management field days targeting rural landholders - especially those new to the area - and promote the NSW DPI WeedWise program. We approached NSW DPI, Rous County Council, biocontrol and soil health experts to be involved in the educational events. To ensure we reached as many new landholders as possible, we advertised the events in local newspaper The Echo, in targeted social media advertising, in the local rural co-op shop and via BVL’s large email mailing list. The field days were held at two scenic rural properties in the Byron Shire; a biological farm in Hayter’s Hill and a shared lifestyle property in Main Arm - each with varying degrees of weed infestation and management. The two practical, skills-based training days educated a range of local farmers, landholders and community members about best-practice control of paddock and fenceline weeds including Giant Parramatta grass, Groundsel bush, Fireweed, Camphor laurel and Lantana. Expert speakers from Beechworth Biological Solutions, Soilcare and Rous County Council gave presentations and demonstrations on biological control for Giant Parramatta Grass, soil and pasture health and testing, pasture management, landholder biosecurity duties and herbicide application methods, with good attendance at both events.