“Newham & District Landcare Group is thrilled that our work protecting and restoring our local environment has been recognised by the 2021 Victorian ACM Landcare Community Group Award. Our major project since 2006 has been the Cobaw Biolink, providing habitat connectivity for native flora and fauna species on both private and public land such as roadsides, waterways and reserves eg Hanging Rock.  We are the heart of our community with 120 member families and many community based activities.” The Newham and District Landcare Group.

Passionate about the environment and working with their community, Newham and District Landcare Group (NDLG) has achieved significant environmental outcomes, with a focus on waterway health and protection and enhancement of remnant vegetation. Since forming in 2004, NDLG’s membership has grown to more than 100 households – over 35% of Newham’s population.

The group’s main project has been the Cobaw Biolink. The project encompasses pest plant and animal control, revegetation, and roadside activities to provide habitat connectivity for native species on both public and private land between Mount Macedon and Cobaw State Forest. NDLG was instrumental in gaining the support of Melbourne Water to rehabilitate degraded waterways, and is a partner in projects with Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

The highly organised group has also effectively engaged new property owners, provided advice, collected, shared and published information, secured grants, run many educational and social events and supported environmental education. In particular, over $60,000 was raised for Newham Primary School to purchase materials, undertake school excursions, science classes and run a kitchen garden program.