4 | LANDCARE IN FOCUS MAY 2026
As the new chair of Landcare
Australia, it’s a great pleasure to
welcome you to the latest edition
of Landcare in Focus. This issue
showcases the strength, innovation
and community spirit that makes
landcare a powerful movement
across this amazing country.
A big thanks to everyone who contributed
articles. Your passion, insights and dedication
are what brings the pages in this magazine to
life. I hope these landcare stories leave you
feeling inspired and encouraged.
In this May edition, you’ll find articles from
landcare groups, primary producers, schools,
and a special feature on the next generation
of landcare leaders.
From climate smart farming, investing in
drought resilience and using AI for weed
detection, to protecting shorebirds at a
globally important wetland, this edition
demonstrates the diversity of landcare and
the people behind it.
My connection to Landcare is personal, and
goes back to its earliest days, when
the Australian Conservation Foundation/
National Farmers Federation proposal was
taken to the former Prime Minister the late
Bob Hawke to establish this pioneering
national Landcare program.
I have watched the work of Landcare ever
since, admiring its ability to bring people
together in support of lasting environmental
and sustainable agriculture action. When
the opportunity came around to serve as
chair, it felt like a chance to return home, and
contribute to the sector in a meaningful way
at this crucial time in our nation’s history.
I sincerely thank the outgoing chair Doug
Humann AM for his outstanding leadership
over the past decade and his contribution to
Landcare Australia’s continued growth and
impact to support the landcare movement.
For me, landcare has always been about
connection. It brings together communities,
primary producers, First Nations people and
groups, volunteers and partners to deliver
practical, on-ground action for healthier
landscapes, agricultural lands, waterways and
biodiversity, and more resilient communities.
Just as importantly, many people tell us
their wellbeing is improved through their
connection and contribution to landcare; a
powerful reminder that landcare not only
strengthens the environment and agricultural
lands but also people and communities.
As we celebrate the people and projects
featured in this edition, I encourage you
to think about the volunteers and local
champions in your own community who
deserve recognition. Nominations for the
2026 State and Territory Landcare Awards are
now open, offering a valuable opportunity
to acknowledge the individuals, groups
and organisations making an outstanding
contribution to caring for our land and water.
If someone comes to mind, I hope you will
consider putting their name forward.
I look forward to the opportunity of
meeting many of you at various events
and conferences, and learning about your
landcare work.
Enjoy reading.
Peter Garrett AM
Chair, Landcare Australia
Message from Landcare Australia
Chair, Peter Garrett AM
4 | LANDCARE IN FOCUS MAY 2026