The Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC) has received a substantial funding boost of $230,000 allocated towards Landcare initiatives.
The grant, extended over a four-year period, is made possible through the NSW Government’s Landcare Enabling Program and is set to invigorate conservation efforts across the Hawkesbury, The Hills Shire, Penrith, and Blacktown areas.
Landcare, a collaborative endeavour focused on sustainable land management and environmental restoration, unites local communities with a shared goal of nurturing their environment.
HRCC chair Councillor Jerome Cox said the funding was important for the region.
“HRCC, operating under a county council model, is strategically positioned to facilitate Landcare initiatives across our region,” he said.
“Establishing partnerships with local landholders is pivotal in advancing our collective mission of enhancing land management practices.
“Demonstrating our steadfast commitment to Landcare, HRCC has allocated additional funding to facilitate the employment of a full-time position dedicated to this cause.“
While Landcare activities in the Hawkesbury region date back to the 1980s, HRCC has been at the forefront of coordinating efforts since 2016, according to HRCC general manager Chris Dewhurst.
“The burgeoning interest in Landcare within our community over recent years is remarkable, and we are delighted to secure this continued funding to sustain our momentum. Anticipate significant progress over the next four years,“ he said.
Central to the funding allocation is the appointment of a Local Landcare Coordinator, with Monique Bailey assuming this role six months ago.
Despite her early successes, Monique emphasises the importance of community engagement: “I have exciting plans for Landcare activities tailored for beginners and established Landcarers in the upcoming months.”
