A Partnership in Biodiversity
A Partnership in Biodiversity
The "Bush for Biodiversity" two day event highlighted the success of effective collaboration - "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts".
Collaborations -
LP-009-044
The issue
As part of the Partnering in Private Land Conservation Project between Landcare NSW and the BCT, community events are being planned and held across our New England region. One challenge faced was how to go about creating a space for collaborative planning, since there are multiple organizations involved who are geographically spread. The hope is that by being able to create impactful events, that landholders and community members can feel supported in their endeavor to carry out biodiversity and conservation actions. Additionally, we hope to foster the ongoing relationship between our organizations and those within them.
The solution
Much of the planning was done through Zoom meetings where time was spent in a discussion format rather than a strict one. This helped the flow of ideas and friendly interaction between us. There was an understanding that there was a shared goal that was mutually beneficial, and to get there we needed to all be accountable, included and give each other the space for dialogue. All individuals offered what they could and made it clear where their limitations were. The planning felt as though those “at the table” wanted to be there, a recipe for success.
The impact
Our effective collaboration created an event where participants seemed comfortable to ask questions, discuss information and mingle with each other. On evaluation, the vast majority of participants strongly agreed that the event was a worthwhile use of their time. Favourite parts included the “breadth of the event” and “both listening to presenters and meeting/ networking with organisers and participants”. As for us organising, I have a greater belief that teamwork can really change outcomes for the better. It allowed us to alter plans when needed, and lean on each other for advice and support as the event happened. We look forward to the next one, a pretty good sign!
Key facts
- Effective collaboration creates greater on ground success
- Planning with an emphasis on shared goals, open and respectful discussion and accountability is rewarding