Last month, SGLN hosted the Regional Landcare Forum. Representatives from the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and each of our fellow West Gippsland Landcare Networks came to see a snapshot of the great work we are doing.
First stop was a commercial dairy farm at Waratah where the owners have been growing multi-species crops and trialling biofertilisers in their business. Owner Stu Tracey, who has participated in many of Cassie’s sustainable agriculture programs, described the benefits to his bottom line and herd health from using these regenerative methods.
The group then moved to Board member Sam Stringer’s beef property at Fish Creek. Sam’s sustainable farming approach is also paying dividends, allowing him to reduce costs and increase his stocking rate.
Fish Creek Landcare Group’ president Robin Stevens gave an overview of the Group’s highly successful ‘Put the Fish Back in Fish Creek’ project which has achieved a remarkable result: all of Fish Creek from the township to the headwaters is now fenced off from stock. Anda Banikos also talked about the wonderful work Prom Coast Ecolink is doing to restore habitat in and around the Hoddle Ranges.
The day showcased so many things that SGLN does well, and I thank Stu and Sam for welcoming the group to their properties and Robin and Anda for their time.
Kind regards,
Jillian Staton
SGLN Chair
