Port Macquarie Landcare has been described as a model for Landcare groups throughout NSW, and the rest of Australia too.
Thor Aaso, Natural Resources Officer from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, praised the group and said many other councils envied how much progress it had made in just a few years.
The group’s Landcare Community Nursery was also commended for growing 26,000 native plants every year , by NPWS Area Manager Peter Clark.
Their comments were made at a presentation dinner last Friday, where many Landcarers received awards.
Life membership was conferred on Julie Ho, a member for 10 years, by patron Roy Sach. She is also the recipient of this year’s Council Volunteer of the Year award.
Other members were recognised for skills and hard work that made the year’s achievements possible.
Some have also gained qualifications through training, such as first aid and the use of a chainsaw or pole saw.
In 2011, the group took on new projects to improve the local environment, including Nobby’s Beach.
This Landcare group has brought in more than $80,000 in grants to the area, and done thousands of hours of volunteer work in 2011. Its volunteer membership has grown, and is now over 150.
Port Macquarie Landcare Group provides information through its website and regular newsletters at www.landcareportmac.com.au and can also be followed on Facebook and Twitter.
