Landcare Grants bolster grassroots efforts in nature conservation

Melbourne Water is pleased to deliver more than half a million dollars in 110 Landcare grants this year, supporting community-led initiatives to restore, enhance and protect local natural landscapes. 

Within the Port Phillip and Westernport region, 29 organisations will receive Project Grants of up to $20,000 each. The funds will help boost community action and facilitate partnerships with stakeholders ranging from Traditional Owners to schools and universities. 

Additionally, 81 groups will each receive a Support Grant of up to $500 to help cover insurance and registration costs. 

“Through the Landcare Grants program, we are committed to supporting grassroots efforts that align with local waterway health and biodiversity goals,” said Barry Kennedy, Melbourne Water Regional Landcare Coordinator. 

“In recent years, we have noticed a growing number of applicants focus on bringing in new volunteers and demonstrating Landcare’s role in supporting local ecosystems, parks, waterways and native plants and animals.” 

For 40 years and counting, Landcare has been championing the protection and restoration of land and the environment close to local communities. It tackles a variety of localised environmental challenges such as pests, weeds and soil degradation.  

“From indigenous planting events and community workshops, to conservation education and field days, Landcare connects thousands of Victorians through a shared commitment to care for our land and waterways,” added Kennedy. 

Highlights of the grant recipients include: 

• Upper Deep Creek Landcare Network – recruiting local residents to become growers of indigenous plants and shrubs in their backyards 

• Jindivick Landcare Group – mobilising the community to hunt for and document giant trees on farms and bushland 

• North East Melbourne Intrepid Landcare – boosting participation of people aged 18-35, empowering emerging leaders to engage in environmental action 

• North Warrandyte Osborne Peninsula Landcare Group – strengthening community connection and environmental awareness through a year-round program of nature education and engagement activities. 

The full list of this year’s Victorian Landcare Grant recipients is available online. 

To get involved and help care for our environment find your local group here.