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| On 19, 20 October the Board and Senior Mangers attended a facilitated planning workshop at Nymboida Coaching Station with the aim of developing a new Strategic Plan to guide the work of the Northern Rivers CMA in achieving its key objectives for the next three years (2011 – 2013). A good start was made to this process and at our December 2010 meeting the Board will finalise the draft version for the circulation tot he staff team for their comments. The finalised Plan will them be used to develop annual Business Plans for the organisation.
The workshop overlapped by a half day with the Community Support Workshop 2010 for contractors and employees of the NRCMA Community Support Contracts. We always enjoy this opportunity to meet with our CSO network. The event also saw the farewell of long time Board member, Sally Wright. Sally was appointed to the Board in 2004 and brought an enormous wealth of knowledge and experience of Landcare and of farming systems on the Tablelands. With her particular interest in soils and pasture management, Sally has been an invaluable member of the Board. We will miss her input to the Board but know that she will still remain a very active advocate for the continued development of the Landcare movement and for the integration of production and natural resource management (NRM). We wish her well with her future endeavours.
The following week, with General Manager, Deb Tkachenko and Program Manager, Royce Bennett, I attended a workshop in Tamworth to discuss the impending review and upgrade of regional Catchment Action Plans (CAPs). Two CMAs, Namoi and Central West, have already acted as pilots in their CAP review and upgrade and presented their experiences to the workshop. The CAPs drive investment in NRM in our regions and need to reflect our communities’ priorities and concerns. The CAPs also need to be supported by a whole-of-government approach to NRM including all agencies and local government. The CMAs act as brokers for CAP development coordinating input from the diverse range of our stakeholders. For the Northern Rivers CMA this process will involve extensive community and other stakeholder consultation through 2011. |
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| Feature Stories this Month |
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| Win for the Warriors – Caring for our Coast |
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Glory lily experiments have produced a win for Hat Head Dune Care on the NSW mid north coast.
The volunteer group has found a way to control this weed without damaging surrounding native vegetation, and their method is now being used in nearby Hat Head National Park.
This achievement owes much to the funding provided by the NRCMA for their Weed Warriors of Hat Head project. The $17,530 is part of Caring for our Coast, a program sponsored by the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country.
Funding for the project means the group can continue weed control and regeneration work in the coastal sand dunes, paperbark forest and littoral rainforest behind Hat Head village.
Glory lily is a “garden escapee” weed that has proliferated on the dunes since bitou was removed. In the past year, nearly half of all weed plants collected by the group were glory lily (49,734 plants). Declaring war on this weed, the volunteers set up two-year trial plots on the dunes in October 2009. They tried many techniques: drizzling with herbicides, spraying with herbicides, hand pulling, digging out, and a spray of salt, vinegar and oil.
They marked out nine plots about 2m by 2m, one for each of eight different treatments and one control plot receiving “no treatment”. Each method was applied in October and again in March. Weed plants and native plants in the plots were counted at the start, then five more times. When results were compared, one method had emerged as the most promising, just in time for the new outbreak of glory lily in the national park.
The best results came from a drizzle technique using herbicide mixture of equal parts of glyphosate, vegetable oil and a penetrant, plus dye. Drops of the thick mixture were applied by hand from a small bottle into the growing tip of the weed, without coming into contact with other plants. Although painstaking, this technique killed glory lily foliage within a day, and may also kill the underground tuber because it sticks and penetrates.
Encouraged by this outcome, the volunteers are continuing with their experiments for at least another year. They believe that morning glory seed is viable for two years, and there may be other variables to consider, such as rainfall.
The Weed Warriors of Hat Head project is tackling 16ha of bitou and lantana, as well as other environmental weeds that degrade native vegetation. Chinese violet, a Class 1 weed, is threatening the 2ha of Littoral Rainforest, so the volunteers are helping Kempsey Shire Council to manage it.
They are also helping to conserve biodiversity by rehabilitating and protecting bushland wildlife corridors. Weed Warriors project work is based on a management plan that was completed with 2008 Caring for our Country funds secured by Hat Head Dune Care.
Submitted by Julie Ho, NRCMA |
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| NSW State Weeds Conference – Call for Papers |
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The Organising Committee for NSW State Weeds Conference to held in July 2011 at Pacific Bay, Coffs Harbour are calling for abstracts. To be on the program please provide the following details to Michelle Aubert (michelle.aubert@chcc.nsw.gov.au) and David Merrikin (david.merrikin@cma.nsw.gov.au) BEFORE 26 November 2010.
Name and Organisation, Name of Presentation or Poster, Duration of Presentation (preferably 10 to 20 minutes) 300 word (maximum) Abstract, Requirement (AV, PC, Multimedia, PPT etc).
Submitted by David Merrikin, NRCMA |
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Wycare is pleased to announce that it will be hosting the NSW 2011 Coastal Volunteers Forum at The Builders Club, Wollongong, from 27 February to 1 March 2011.
In caring for our coast, there is always a lot to teach and even more to learn. The 2011 Coastal Volunteers Forum is an opportunity for NSW coastal and marine volunteers and landholders from all corners of NSW coast and beyond to come together and showcase their achievements and skills. Thanks to the support of the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country Programme through the Hunter Rivers CMA, the NSW 2011 Coastal Volunteers Forum will provide an opportunity for people to: exchange ideas about cooperative community approaches to creating healthy coastal landscapes and lifestyles and consider future issues; build on the contributions make in previous NSW Dunecare Conferences; swap stories of triumphs and tribulations; showcase their projects in the exhibition area; make new friendships over a bite to eat and share a laugh during the celebratory dinner.
The 2011 Coastal Volunteers Forum will feature a number of outstanding speakers, several concurrent sessions, workshops, panel discussions field trips and poster presentations. It is the continued effort of the community working with government and business and our overall community spirit that will bring about a better understanding and management of coastal issues and ensure that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy our beautiful and unique marine and coastal environments. The event is sponsored by the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country Programme and Wollongong City Council and supported by the five coastal Catchment Management Authorities.
For further information, programs and registration forms contact Wycare 175 Pollock Ave, Wyong 2259 or phone 43521199 or email wycare@bigpond.com or visit www.wycare.com.au or contact the Community Landcare Support Officer details for the Northern Rivers Area can be found at http:\\www.northern.cma.nsw.gov.au/contact_community_support.php
Submitted by Marlene Pennings 02 4352119 |
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| Getting the Drift with the Environmental Defender’s Office |
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In response to community concerns, the Environmental Defender’s Office (EDO) has published a free booklet, “Getting the Drift : A Community Guide to Pesticide Sprayed in the NSW Northern Rivers”. Compiled with the National Toxics Network and the co-operation of several industry bodies, it introduces the issues and lists the most common pesticides used in several of the major agricultural industries in this region.
There are over 8000 pesticides registered for use in Australian agriculture, horticulture, livestock, forestry, commericial premises, parks, homes and gardens, some of which may be used by local industries and have potentially worrying health implications.
“Getting the Drift” was launched at an event to promote chemical-free bush regeneration at the Mullumbimby Civic Hall, on 23 October.
To obtain a copy contact the EDO on 1300 369791 or visit their office at 1/17 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480. It can also be downloaded from the EDO website (www.edo.org.au/edonsw/edonr) or by emailing edonr@edo.org.au .
Also available from the EDO’s website is “A Guide to Private Conservation in NSW”, this publication will help you understand the different private conversation options available and help you decide which option would be most suitable for your property and circumstances.
Submitted by Mark Byrne, Education Officer at the EDO Northern Rivers. For more information or help about this or any other environmental law issue, please call 1300 639 791 or email edonr@edo.org.au |
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| YouTube Videos – How to Deal with Invasive Species |
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| Green Cross – Green Lane Diary Program for Schools |
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| The Green Lane Diary program pilot kick started in schools, homes and communities of tens of thousands of 10 – 12 year olds across Australia. The Green Lane Diary is a curriculum linked education program designed by environmental educators to help children become aware of the stresses our planet confronts and how sustainable living can make a difference. By working through topics from water, waste, energy and biodiversity, young people turn 10 weeks of discovery into a Green Scrapbook which can go into the draw to win terrific prizes. For more information or to register go to http:\\www.greenlanediary.org |
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| Current Learning Opportunities |
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| Ben Lomond Soil Carbon Workshop |
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Ben Lomond Landcare group will showcase its Soil Carbon project at a workshop on 4th November 2010 at Ben Lomond. Developed in partnership with Glenrac, this project will benchmark soil carbon levels and soil biology across a diversity of farming systems, soil types, rainfall areas and altitudes within the Ben Lomond district. Richard Makim will open the day on behalf of Ben Lomond Landcare, and UNE research scientists Dr Chris Guppy and Dr Paul Kristiansen will discuss the latest results from Tablelands research programs on soil chemistry and biology, plant nutrition, sustainable farming and its relation to soil carbon sequestration. Resources Consulting Service senior consultant, Gary McDouall, will bring his expertise in sustainable farming techniques and soil biology to the day as its final speaker. Register your attendance with Glenrac on 6732 3443 or email glenrac@glenrac.org.au by 29 October 2010.
Submitted by Glenrac |
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| Coolatai Control and Management Field Day |
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Glenrac will host a field day at Strathbogie on 9 November to examine the results of a trial Coolatai control project designed and initiated by landholders Jim and Yvonne Benton. The Benton’s have combined a number of management and control strategies to reduce infestations of Coolatai and promote the vigour of desirable pasture species, particularly native grasses. Participants will have the opportunity to check out the trial sites and their about the project in detail from Jim Benton. District agronomist, Jeff Lowien, will contribute his knowledge and experience with Coolati grass management here. Register your attendance with Glenrac on 02 67323443 or email glenrac@glenrac.org.au
Submitted by Glenrac |
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| Roseberry Creek Water watch Training |
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Northern Landcare Support Services will be conducting free Water Watch Training at Roseberry Creek on 5th November, 2010 commencing at 1pm. To register please contact Tara Patel from Northern Landcare Support Services on 66323 722.
Submitted by Northern Landcare Support Services |
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| Weed professionals or those who require knowledge of water weed species as part of their employment are invited to attend a one day workshop on aquatic weeds and gain two units of competency towards a Certificate II in Conservation and Land Management. Live plant specimens are used to outline key identification features to distinguish between native and look-a-likes and noxious weeds.
Wauchope – One day accredited Training Course to be held on Tuesday 23 November from 9.30am to 3.30pm at Wauchope Water Treatment Plant, 213 Quarry Road, Rosewood.
Wollongbar – One day accredited Training Course to be held on Wednesday 1 December, 2010 from 9.30am to 3.30pm at Wollongbar Institute 1243 Bruxner Highway, Wollongbar.
Cost $90.00 for either course which is a subsidised rate including course materials and resources, course accreditation fees and morning tea.
Bookings are essential as places are limited. Course participants must provide their own lunch.
For more information or to register contact Carla Sbrocchi on 02 65614965 or email carla.sbrocchi@cma.nsw.gov.au
Submitted by Carla Sbrocchi, NRCMA |
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| Lillifield Biodiversity Field Day |
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| Lillifield Biodiversity Field Day Talks, Walks &; local lunch 10.00am Sunday, 14th November at the Lillifield Community Hall 4505 Kyogle Road, Wadeville (next to Barkers Vale Public School).
Speakers include: Great Eastern Range Initiative (Georgia Beyer) Northern Wildlife Carers (Cheryl Cochrane) Biodiversity (NLSS) Koalas (FOK) Bird Wing Butterfly Rainforest Barks and Trunks (Peter Poropot).
All welcome – no charge. Please bring a plate of food to share for lunch but there is a twist – make a plate including as much local produce as possible. Morning tea is included. RSVP by Thursday 11th November to Northern Landcare Support Services on 02 66323722.
Submitted by Northern Landcare Support Services |
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| SoilCare and Caring for our Country |
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SoilCare Expo 2010
8.30am t 4.00pm Saturday 6 November 2010 Wollongbar Primary Industry Institute,
1243 Bruxner Highway Wollongbar. Details at www.soilcare.org
Grazing and Cropping Workshop
Grafton 9am to 4pm 8th and 9th November 2010
Casino 9am to 4pm 13th and 15th November 2010
For more information on these FarmReady Approved courses contact Bonnie Walker 66281788, Pam Woods 0417 468 685 or email info@soilcare.org
Horticulture Workshop – All Crops
Tweed 10 & 11 November 2010, North Coast TAFE Kingscliff (Cudgen Road, Kingscliff) Wollongbar 16 & 17 November 2010 North Coast TAFE Wollongbar (Cnr Sneaths Road and Bruxner Highway Wollongbar). For more information on these FarmReady Approved Courses contact Bonnie Walker 66281788, Pam Woods 0417 486 685 or email info@soilcare.org
Horticulture – Macadamia & Pecans
18 & 19 November 2010 North Coast TAFE – Wollongbar (Cnr Sneaths Road and Bruxner Highway Wollongbar) for more information on this FarmReady Approved Course contact Bonnie Walker 66281788, Pam Woods 0417 486 685.
Biological Farming
Grafton – All Industries, Monday’s 8.30am to 4pm starting February 2011. Course duration 9 sessions over 18 weeks. Held in Grafton and various field sites.
Farmers who complete the course and submit the course assessment (a soil management plan for their farm) will be reimbursed the $219.00 TAFE course fee. Course details available on http://www.soilcare.org
For additional information on any of the above course email info@soilcare.org or phone Bonnie Walker 02 6628 1788 or 0428 359 429 or Pam Woods 0417 486 685
Submitted by SoilCare Inc. |
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| Evans Head Weed Id and Control Workshop |
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A free weed identification and control workshop will be held at Evans Head on 28 November. For more information or to book a place contact Northern Landcare Support Services on 66323722.
Submitted by Northern Landcare Support Services |
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| Cultural Awareness for Landcare Volunteers |
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| This workshop will raise awareness of traditional cultural connections to the coastline and help landcare volunteers and other community members working within the coastal zone identify cultural sites within their work areas. The day will be delivered by the Jalumbo Research Centre and run in conjunction with Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare, North Coast Indigenous Services and the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority. The workshop will include visits to a range of local cultural sites, including : middens, stone artifacts scatters, modified trees and stone fish traps, among others. Participants will gain an understanding of :
•Traditional uses/connections to the coasts
•The identification of cultural sites
•Protocols when cultural materials/sites have been found
When : 6th December, 2010 – 9am to 3.30pm
Where : Yarrawarra Cultural Centre, 170 Red Rock Road, Corindi Beach.
What to Bring : A hat, appropriate footwear and a camping chair if you have one. Morning tea will be provided.
RSVP : Craig Stehn 02 66511308 by 29th November 2010
Submitted by Craig Stehn, CSO Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare |
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| Australian Seabird Rescue |
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Migratory Shorebirds, Community Coastal Shorebird Conservation, Mobbs Bay Nature Reserve South Ballina, 5 January 2011 8.00am to 10.30am. Observe amazing diversity of shorebirds.
The above Training and learning Opportunities are part of the Australian Government Funded – NRCMA “Engaging NSW Communities in Coastline Conservation” Project.
Submitted by Australian Seabird Rescue |
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| Current Funding Opportunities |
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| NRCMA Plan Development Program |
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The Plan Development Program is now open and Expressions of Interest are being called for the preparation of Recognised NRM Plans. Recognised NRM Plans are documents that can be developed for individual or groups of properties. These Plans guide future on-ground works activities by identifying the values of the site(s), the threats to those values and then recommends, priorities and costs the actions needed to maintain and repair natural resource condition. Future Northern Rivers CMA Incentive Programs will give priority to proposals that implement actions from a recognised NRM Plan.
The Northern Rivers CMA would like to encourage individuals, community groups and organisations to send or email Expressions of Interest to our Grafton office by 4pm Friday 5th November, 2010. There are many different types of Recognised NRM Plans and descriptions of each of them can be found in the Guidelines Plan Development Program 2010-2011. If you would like to know more about the Program and how it might help you plan future on-ground works activities on your land, please telephone Melinda Fletcher, Catchment Officer, Incentives on 02 66270119. |
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| Regional Business Employment Fund |
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This is fund to encourage business growth and the creation of genuine new jobs. It aims to offset business costs including payroll tax, to assist businesses create employment through new or expanded operations in regional NSW.
More information contact : Armidale 02 67713284 Coffs Harbour 02 66580351 Grafton 02 48218000 Lismore 02 66224011 Port Macquarie 02 65835647 Tweed Heads 07 55993344 |
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| New Market Expansion Program for Regional Enterprise |
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This program helps regional firms develop the confidence and skills to enter new markets and break the cycle of dependence on traditional markets and/or local economies.
Regular Travelling Expert series are held in regional centres nd towns. The series are used to brief small and medium-sized firms on current business issues so they are better prepared to take up new opportunities.
For further information on the New Market Expansion Program contact Sue Wadley on 02 9338 6694 or email sue.wadley@business.nsw.gov.au |
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| The NRCMA is funded through the Australian Government Caring for Our Country Program and the New South Wales Government. |
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Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority
PO Box 618 Grafton NSW 2460
Ph: (02) 66420622 Fax: (02) 66420640 |
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