Landcare’s everyday heroes recognised

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, and Parliamentary Secretary, Dr Mike Kelly, congratulated the winners of the 2011 state and territory Landcare Awards describing them as genuine everyday heroes.

“It takes selflessness and commitment to get out in all seasons and conditions and help your local community restore landscapes and care for the land and these winners certainly do that,” Minister Ludwig said.

“Both nominees and winners represent the valuable work done by more than 6,000 groups and thousands of individual landcarers who protect and enhance our environment and social capital.

“Their tireless efforts help secure the long term future of our environment and of our productive agricultural lands – work that is of benefit now and for future generations.”

Ceremonies have now been held in all Australian states and territories with more than 87 awards being given to individuals and groups across Australia.

“The Australian Government is a proud sponsor of the 2011 state and territory Landcare Awards and welcomes the opportunity to further showcase the winners who will go on to the national awards in 2012,” Minister Ludwig said.

Dr Kelly said the awards were an important acknowledgement of the work of tireless volunteers in a range of settings.
“The diverse range of projects recognised all have the common goal of working towards protecting and conserving our precious natural resources,” he said.

“I urge all Australians to support Landcare—one of the most enduring and recognisable environmental movements in Australia—in whatever capacity they can.”

Dr Kelly said it was important to also acknowledge the support of the wide range of other organisations that support the Landcare Awards through their generous sponsorships.

All the winners of the national categories in the State Landcare Awards will go through as nominees for their respective categories at the 2012 National Landcare Awards to be held in Sydney next year in association with the National Landcare Conference.

Investment in Landcare supports a number of key priority areas under the Australian Government’s flagship natural resource management initiative, Caring for our Country, including community skills, knowledge and engagement, coastal environments and sustainable farm practices.

Click here for more details about the 2011 State and Territory Landcare Awards.