Despite missing out on the bragging rights to being the first landcare group to be formed in Victoria (by just a matter of hours), the Maude Landcare Group has wasted no time in supporting local landholders and the local environment.

We are fortunate to have a founding member, Lex Stray, who was present at that very first meeting, still actively involved today. Lex has served as the group’s secretary and was presented with life membership in 2023.

The initial meeting was called in response to local farmer Murray Thompson’s concern about serrated tussock.

He brought a sample of serrated tussock along to a meeting and, for many, it was their first introduction to what would go on to become a significant weed in the area.

It was decided to make serrated tussock and rabbit extermination our two main targets in the early days.

After all these years, despite huge efforts, they remain a serious threat to the health of our landscape.

Chilean needle grass became a focus in about 2003 and is now also widespread.

Poisoning of rabbits continues to be another focus each year.

Initially the group used the less expensive and more immediately effective 1080 baits, however we now organise a very popular annual distribution of Pindone poisoned carrots to around 40 farmers and small acreage property holders.

We’ve also spent years targeting gorse, boxthorn and blackberries, helping landholders to identify and remove the shrubs and then deep rip the rabbit warrens underneath.

Financial assistance from numerous statutory authorities along the way allowed us to plant lots of trees on private properties, creeks and waterways.

Reflecting on our 40-year history, it has been fascinating to read through records and files to get a glimpse at how many people have endeavoured to preserve the best of this magnificent area – much of the work carried out along Moorabool River and Sutherland Creek Waterways.

In 2023we welcomed members of the Bamganie and Meredith Landcare group as they merged to create the Maude, Meredith and Districts Landcare Group.

Since then, we have organised regular evening meetings on topics relevant to all landholders.

These meetings have seen us work to identify weeds, collect seeds, assess soil health, plant trees, visit Mt Rothwell Biodiversity and Interpretation Centre at night, propagate plants and watch a documentary on the state of the Moorabool River together.

The group presented its inaugural local Landcare Awards in 2025, making presentations to local primary school students in recognition of their conservation efforts.

We reflect on 40 years of local impact while relishing in the efforts of the children and their commitment to supporting local conservation efforts. Hopefully they will become the future of this worthy group!