30 Years of Landcare and Still Counting
Clarence Landcare Inc turned 30 this year.
Self sustenance - LEP_23_033_LLC_CLI_04
The issue
Clarence Landcare has provided valuable support to volunteer conservation in the Clarence Valley since 1995. Ebbs and flows in government funding over the last 3 decades has sometimes threatened the viability of the community office, but the doors have remained open, and a part time Co-ordinator has been employed throughout. Various members of the volunteer committee, with the support of staff, have worked hard to improve the financial sustainability and governance of the organisation over time.
The solution
The results of the recent Landcare NSW Organisational Healthcheck showed Clarence Landcare is now positioned well in terms of professional governance and financial management.
The impact
Clarence Landcare celebrated 30 years at an event in Maclean this May. Previous staff and volunteers returned to join in the story telling, catchups and static displays of old photos and newspaper clippings. The agenda allowed plenty of time for personal catchups but also included a very entertaining open mic session for Landcarers to share their stories, an official cake cutting with photoshoot, and a presentation of the impressive achievements of Clarence Landcare managed projects.
Key facts
- Approximately $9million grant and tender funding brought into the Clarence Valley by Clarence Landcare.
- Groups come and go, governments come and go, but community led conservation is maintained.
- The knowledge and skills in a membership spanning 30 years and numbering approximately 500 is vast and valuable.
- Clarence Valley Council have acknowledged the advantage of Landcare Groups caring for Nature Reserves.