Federal government changes to NRM funding damaging Landcare.
The Federal Government has changed the way it funds Landcare and in Far East Gippsland volunteer groups see this as a huge threat to their ability to keep on carrying out their on ground works aimed at restoring our environment.
Disappointed members will make their feelings known at a Rally on November 15th at the Orbost Snowy Rovers Football club at Lochiel Park.
In some regional areas, Landcare groups are the only remaining focus where communities can come together to work on environmental restoration.
However, with new directions in Federal funding, all this is set to change.
Volunteers are faced with the loss of vital staff assistance and fear that locally significant projects will not get underway
In Far East Gippsland the community is fighting back – They need your help!
Landcare groups are asking Ministers Garrett and Burke for immediate restoration of facilitator funding and for changes to next year’s Caring for Our Country plans so that local support is kept to build the skills and knowledge of the community, especially in this time of rapid change and great environmental need.
“Landcare facilitators play a crucial role in developing projects with community and ensuring their on ground delivery,” a spokesperson said.
The withdrawal of the services provided by Landcare facilitators will result in less onground works being undertaken by farmers. “Ultimately it will be the environment that suffers from this decision.”
The Rally will be fun for family and friends including a free barbecue, speakers, face painting and forming a ‘human sign” on the oval – the Landcare “hands”.
Landcare and interested community members from far and wide will make a stand for continued funding for the groups as they “turn up and take part” at 11am on November 15.