Corowa District Landcare's bus tour for next generation land managers
Corowa District Landcare developed a bus tour for 18 to 30 year olds, exploring the intersection between natural assets and agriculture.
Capacity building - LEP_23-025_LLC06
The issue
Landcare groups have long recognised a common gap in engagement among younger people, with individuals seeking accessible, welcoming, and age-appropriate environments to explore and connect to landcare and the agricultural and natural resource management sectors. Without purposefully designed events and experiences, limitation of youth participation, belonging, and exposure to practical learning can occur.
The solution
To address this gap, Corowa District Landcare organised a one-day bus tour for 18 to 30 year olds, visiting three farms across Oaklands, Coreen, and Lowesdale. The tour was designed to create an engaging, inclusive space where participants could learn directly from farmers about managing natural assets within working agricultural systems. Resources and expertise were provided by Corowa District Landcare staff, landholders, and partner organisations such as Local Land Services and BirdLife Australia. Sessions covered topics including regenerative agriculture, on-farm wetland management, native grass identification, and conservation alongside production. The day concluded with a relaxed networking dinner with farmers and the wider landcare community, helping bridge generational and professional connections.
The impact
The event was highly successful in achieving its aims. Knowledge of natural assets increased across all areas, with participants reporting stronger understanding of natural asset identification, values, and conservation practices. All attendees rated the event 9/10 or 10/10 and said they would recommend it to others. Beyond learning outcomes, the tour provided an enjoyable, confidence-building, peer-supported environment where young people could connect with others in their age group, develop professional networks, and feel welcome in the landcare community.
This event has been supported by the NSW Government through Murray Local Land Services' Awareness Raising Activities to Promote the Value of on-farm Natural Assets Program.
Key facts
- 15 participants registered, with 24 people in attendance across the 3 farms visited.
- A take-home resource pack was provided, featuring landcare merchandise, ANU book and workbook.
- A bullseye/target evaluation system was used to instantly and visually show a positive change in knowledge.