From modest beginnings on a property in Winjallok located in north central Victoria in 1986 to an iconic rural brand, Landcare is celebrating 21 years here in our region.

In recognition of this special milestone the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) will be launching its DVD 'A Celebration of 21 years of Landcare in North Central Region' this Friday.

North Central CMA's Community & Partnerships Manager, Allison Long said Landcare in North Central has grown to over 180 groups of locally-based community people who have implemented hundreds of environmental projects over the years. .

"Landcare in North Central is thriving and this event celebrates the passion, dedication and commitment of our volunteers to their surrounding environment so it really will be Landcare's night of nights." said Allison.

"The launch of the DVD is recognition of the achievements of all Landcare members and groups throughout the region and covers the history of Landcare from its inception to the present, with a focus on the impacts Landcare and partner agencies like the North Central CMA have had on the communities of north central Victoria".

Landcare groups first emerged in Victoria in 1986 with the enthusiastic support of former Minister for Conservation and later Premier Joan Kirner who launched the first group at Winjalock. It was an opportunity for soil conservationists, extension agents and farmers, who were attracted by Landcare's core elements of self help, public participation and cooperative efforts at the local community level.

Nationally, the Landcare movement has evolved to become an icon that engages a wide variety of people and interest groups. More than 4,000 volunteer community Landcare groups are tackling land degradation in every corner of Australia.

North Central CMA Chair, Dr Ian MacBean, who will be officially launching the DVD, said people and communities are working with the Landcare movement to make a big difference in caring for our country.

"All around Australia, Landcare volunteers are proving that together we can repair and viably
manage our precious natural resources. This unique partnership between landholders, communities and government agencies such as the CMA continues to achieve great things," said Dr MacBean.

"Landcare represents more than simply planting trees; it's an important part of the social 'glue' of many rural communities bringing people together to improve our farmlands, help breath new life into our waterways, restoring wildlife habitats and protecting our urban environment".

Dr MacBean added "Landcare has achieved many successes in its short history, and to think what began as small but passionate gathering of like minded people here in our region now represents a successful foundation for further integration of sustainable production and conservation management throughout rural Australia is something we should all be proud of".

The launch of the DVD 'A Celebration of 21 years of Landcare in North Central Region' will be held at the Sutton Grange Winery this Friday. A copy of the DVD will be available from the North Central CMA's offices in Bull Street and Huntly.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au