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Thirty years of Landcare celebrated

By Lua Ikenasio

Nov 18, 2025

GMLN chair John Laing and Landcare facilitator Dan Walker. Photo by Jemma Jones

Over 70 guests gathered in Kyabram recently to celebrate three decades of Goulburn Murray Landcare Network’s service across the region.

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Among the guests were past and present Landcare group members, employees and agency partners.

For 30 years, the GMLN has helped communities across northern Victoria tackle environmental challenges, foster biodiversity, and adapt to agricultural change through hands-on restoration, education, and collaboration.

Landcare facilitator Dan Walker said reaching 30 years was a proud moment for the organisation.

“The volunteer executive committee are extremely proud of GMLN’s achievements over the 30 years and look forward to another 30,” he said.

“GMLN remains committed to grassroots advocacy and action, supporting our community and local environments. We embrace change and will continue adapting to meet evolving community needs.”

GMLN gave a presentation on the day. Photo by Jemma Jones

During the celebration, GMLN chair John Laing gave a presentation on the history and achievements of the organisation.

Major achievements include mobilising 68 original community groups across 3000km² in northern Victoria and facilitating on-ground environmental restoration through groundwater testing and tree planting.

Through its work GMLN has built strong engagement with farm advisers and ethnic liaison officers and promoted intergenerational knowledge and community problem-solving.

The network also reaches over 2000 students and community members annually through biodiversity education and discovery programs and engages more than 840 participants in its Floodplain Ecology Course, farm forums and soil health workshops.

It was a full house for the celebration, with the cake at the centre. Photo: Supplied.

Following Mr Laing’s presentation, three recognition awards were presented to individuals who had made significant contributions to the network.

One award was presented to the Tuhan family on behalf of the late Craig Tuhan, recognising his commitment to Landcare and environmental stewardship across the Girgarre-Stanhope region.

Long-time GMLN member Lanie Pearce, who played a key role in designing and developing the Biodiversity, Education and Aquatic Program, also received an award.

The final award was presented to Mr Laing, acknowledging more than 30 years of dedication to Landcare.

After the formalities, a special commemorative cake was cut and guests socialised for the remainder of the afternoon.

Guests also enjoyed seeing Ellie the Salinity Emu, a 3.2m tall mascot that was once used for community engagement in the ’90s, come out of retirement for the day.