Building capacity in our community
Last weekend saw a great turn out for Watershed Landcare's Farm Walk exploring grazing management in Rylstone, despite the chilly weather.
Farm Walks provide a less formal setting than workshops or seminars for landholders to connect, share information and participate in discussion.
The Farm Walk at 'Eastwood' last Saturday was no exception, with much conversation amongst those who came along, about half of who weren't members. Although grazing management was the focus the management of Sifton Bush was a hot topic for discussion.
Whilst wondering through the paddock attendees had the opportunity to chat, share knowledge and even hone their weed identification skills. The discussion continued with much fervour over lunch.
The Farm Walk was made possible through funding from the Australian Government's 25th Anniversary Landcare Grants.
Landcare groups are community organisations and don't have a guaranteed source of funding. Our activities are made possible through the support of our members and grant funding which is obtained through a competitive bid process.
The 25th Anniversary Landcare grant has provided resources for Watershed Landcare to build capacity in our community by supporting a number of activities over the past year, including: the lecture series at the Mudgee Small Farm Field Days; the Waterwise Garden demonstration site; Green Day; other Farm Walks and field days, including workshops on native tree and grass identification; and conducting a burn to manage weeds with fire.
The funding has also supported activities for our Communities of Practice; The Mudgee Microscope Group, Grazing Group and Women in Agriculture Group. These groups allow participating Watershed Landcare members to explore topics of interest and build capacity through mentoring, peer support, sharing of knowledge and skills and expert speakers.
The best way to get involved and keep up to date on our events and projects in our community is to become a Watershed Landcare member.
Want to know more?
Contact one of our Co-ordinators, Claudia Wythes on 0412 011 064 or Agness Knapik on 0435 055 493, or by email: info@watershedlandcare.com.au.