Working Together: A Partnership Approach to Landcare Site Management
This case study shows how CHRL, the City of Coffs Harbour, and NPWS partner to support volunteers and deliver coordinated conservation across land tenures. Clear roles and shared effort improve environmental outcomes and strengthen long-term community stewardship.
Capacity building - LEP_23_033_LCC_CHRL_05
The issue
Across the Coffs Harbour region, Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare (CHRL) volunteers work on 40 sites that span multiple public land tenures, including City of Coffs Harbour managed reserves and National Parks & Wildlife managed estate within Coffs Coast Regional Park. Caring for these areas requires more than just on-ground effort—it relies on strong collaboration between Landcare and the land managers. While Landcare volunteers bring commitment, local knowledge, and continuity, their work must align with the requirements, priorities, and regulatory frameworks of each land manager. Ensuring volunteers are well supported, activities are compliant, and responsibilities are clearly understood can be complex. The challenge is not only delivering effective conservation outcomes but doing so in a way that brings together different organisations, roles, and expectations into a cohesive and supportive working relationship.
The solution
In response, CHRL, City of Coffs Harbour, and NPWS have developed a collaborative, structured way of working together. Guided by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the partnership clearly outlines roles while allowing each organisation to contribute its strengths. CHRL leads volunteer recruitment, training, and coordination, while staff from Council and NPWS provide technical advice, site guidance, and ensure activities align with land management objectives. The land managers may also contribute funding, resources, and staff time to support volunteer activities. Regular communication, including site visits and quarterly meetings, and revisiting the MOU every 3 years to ensure it is still relevant keeps everyone connected and responsive. Together, the partners focus on creating a positive and engaging volunteer experience, while ensuring all activities are safe, compliant, and aligned with shared conservation goals.
The impact
This collaborative approach has transformed how conservation work is delivered across Landcare sites. Volunteers feel more confident and supported, knowing they are backed by both Landcare coordination and the presence of land manager staff. Stronger communication and clearly defined roles have reduced uncertainty and streamlined how work is planned and delivered. With funding, resources, and expertise contributed by land managers, on-ground efforts are more consistent and can be achieved at a greater scale. Just as importantly, the partnership has strengthened relationships between community and government, building trust and a shared sense of purpose. This model of working together not only improves environmental outcomes but also demonstrates the value of shared stewardship in caring for public land over the long term.
Key facts
- Multiple land tenures managed collaboratively
- Formal MOU defines roles and responsibilities
- Volunteers supported by funding, staff, and expertise