FEDERAL Member for New England and Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce said 21 projects throughout the New England Electorate will enjoy a share of more $364,000 under the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.
He praised the work of the Glen Innes Natural Resources Advisory Committee [GLENRAC] which is involved with projects including the Glen East Landcare Group that will receive $19,770 for restoring habitat and creating biodiversity corridors while the Rummerys Hill Landcare Group received $19,660 in funding for building a toolkit for resilient landscapes.
GLENRAC is involved with the NSW Farmers, Glen Innes branch receiving a grant of $19,990 to develop increasing knowledge in ecosystems and the Glen Elgin Federation Sports Club that was allocated $19,998 to assist with the rehabilitation of the headwaters of the Clarence River at Glen Elgin.
Other projects allocated funding under the GLENRAC banner include $19,380 for erosion control in the headwaters of the Beardy River at Wellington Vale, $19,250 for the Wellington Vale Pest Control Group, and $19,130 for the Pinkett Sport and Recreation Association for a smarter grazing and health livestock project.
GLENRAC also received $19,380 in funding to create and restore habitat linkages, while Amanda and Terry Watters from Rivoli at Matheson, east of Glen Innes will receive $9,355 for a project to control the invasive species, serrated tussock.
Mr Joyce and Federal Environment Minister, Greg Hunt announced the successful projects that will share in the $5 million of funding under the 25th Anniversary Landcare Grants.
“We all have a part to play in caring for the land. These projects are one way we can ensure that our agricultural practices are sustainable and our natural environment is healthy for future generations,” he said.
“It’s great to see so many Australians getting involved in projects to protect and restore their local environment.
“These grants are focused on engaging the community to deliver local projects which will have lasting benefits for the environment and productive agricultural landscapes,” he said.
Further information about the National Landcare Programme can be found online at www.nrm.gov.au