Nominate a Landcare achiever

MINISTER for Agriculture Barnaby Joyce is calling on community groups, networks and individuals who participate in community Landcare and Coastcare activities to nominate a Landcare project or “local hero” for the 2015 State and Territory Landcare Awards.
Mr Joyce said the National Landcare Awards were an important mechanism to promote innovative practices that foster improvements in productivity, competitiveness and sustainability of Australia’s primary industries.
“For more than two decades the National Landcare Awards have celebrated Landcare and Coastcare achievements and the partnership between communities and the Australian, state and territory governments,” Mr Joyce said.
“Many groups contribute to Australia’s land management decisions and Landcare groups lead the way, with the largest percentage of farmers involved.
“Over three quarters of all farmers support the Landcare movement and with more than 6000 Landcare groups and 100,000 volunteers, Australians understand how important it is to get natural resource management right.
“The Awards are an opportunity to give national recognition to the tireless efforts of farmers, community groups, councils, school groups and businesses that volunteer their time to the management of our valuable natural resources.
“I commend the efforts of Landcare and its groups for continuing to strengthen Landcare participation in on-ground activities and for their important role in setting local and regional priorities.
“There is an award to suit every project, with nine national categories covering individual landcarers, sustainable farming, Junior Landcare, and Coastcare to name just a few.
“I encourage those active in Landcare initiatives to put their nominations forward to recognise the invaluable contributions of volunteers,” Mr Joyce said.
Entries for the 2015 State and Territory Landcare Awards are open to 31 May 2015.
To nominate for or for the 2015 State and Territory Landcare Awards or more information visit www.landcareonline.com.au