Landcare and friends groups
We are committed to providing ongoing support and resources to assist Landcare and environment groups. These organisations play an important role in protecting significant local flora and fauna on both public and private land. Our Environment team support Landcare and environment groups by attending and presenting at meetings, provide information and resources, and collaborate on joint projects and events.
Funding and support
Landcare, Friends Groups and Network Support Funding
Up to $800
The primary purpose of this funding is to cover the costs of administration such as insurance, venue hire, printing and mail. Small-scale on-ground works and events can also be funded from this grant.
Community Weed Partnership Program
Up to $1,500
The purpose of this funding is to enable groups to undertake voluntary weed control on Council managed land, for example, roadsides and within bushland and conservation reserves. This work complements Council’s annual weed program.
Biolink Boost Grant
Up to $5,000
The Biolink Boost Grant aims to support revegetation activities in strategic areas across the Macedon Ranges, and to provide groups with a means to engage with landholders and increase membership.
The Biolink Boost Grant is intended to assist groups with a back-to-basics approach involving funding for revegetation activities, and will be supported by the provision of marketing materials from Council Environment Unit for the successful applicants’ projects.
Successful projects will help achieve the landscape connectivity plan detailed in the Biodiversity Strategy 2018. All Landcare, Friends Groups and Networks will be eligible to apply for grants of up to $5,000.
Council’s community partners, Macedon Ranges Community Enterprises Limited and Bendigo Bank will provide $20,000 to match the $20,000 funding offered by Council. The co-funding partnership means that community environment groups have the opportunity to access a total of $40,000.
To find out more and apply, visit Environment Group Support Grants
Landcare groups
Landcare is a national network of thousands of locally-based community groups who care for our country. These groups work to improve our farmlands, restore our unique native vegetation, and preserve and enhance wildlife habitats. Joining a Landcare or friends group is a great way to make new friends, learn new skills and 'give back' to your community.
In the Macedon Ranges, we are fortunate to have a very active community Landcare and environmental friends groups who work to restore, maintain and enhance our local environment. These groups are supported by two regional networks, who help to coordinate their activities.
Learn more about Landcare activities happening in your area, and how you can get involved, by contacting your local group.
Upper Campaspe Landcare Network
This network supports groups to the north of the shire, including Woodend:
Upper Deep Creek Landcare Network and Jacksons Creek Eco Network
Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group
The Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group (MRSG) is an active and well supported network of residents keen to advocate for greener alternatives. They hold the highly successful Macedon Ranges Sustainable Living Festival each year in Woodend.
Other groups and opportunities
There are a wide range of community action groups you can be a part of. Joining an action group is a great way to contribute to sustainable living in our region. One of these groups is the Kyneton Transition Hub where they hold regular events such as information sessions, garden gatherings and a community swap table at the Kyneton Farmers Market. They also participate in other community events and networks.