This year marks a remarkable milestone – 40 years since Landcare’s humble beginnings in 1986.
North East Landcare groups and networks, supported by North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA), are planning a major celebration on 9 August 2026 in Beechworth that will recognise the commitment of volunteers and reflect on the achievements of the Landcare groups and networks that have grown and thrived in north east Victoria in the past 40 years.
Back in 1986, under the leadership of the late Joan Kirner, then Minister for Conservation, Forests and Lands, and Heather Mitchell, former Victorian Farmers Federation President, Landcare in Victoria was born. What began as a simple, yet powerful idea has grown into one of Australia’s most inspiring community-led movements.
From its early days, Landcare has flourished into a passionate and dedicated volunteer organisation with 60 plus networks, more than 600 member groups and upwards of 90,000 volunteers across the country.
The Beechworth celebration will be held on the final Sunday of 2026 Landcare Week on 9 August at Baarmutha Park Function Centre (Beechworth Football Netball Club), Balaclava Road, Beechworth, between 12pm and 3pm.
A buffet lunch will be provided with drinks available for purchase. Tickets are $20 plus booking free and children under 4 years are free.
Tickets can be purchased at North East Victoria 40 Years Of Landcare
The Beechworth event will feature the presentation of service awards, videos and photograph reflections from north east Landcare members.
Organisers are now receiving nominations for north east Landcarers in the following categories:
- 40, 30, 20, 10 and 5 year service awards
- Landcarer Rising Star award
- Young Environmentalist award
Nominations are due by 28 July 2026.
The celebration will also feature a short video from as many of the region’s Landcare groups as possible, with all north east groups now invited to submit a maximum 90 second video and receive a $50 voucher to a local plant nursery or agricultural supply shop.
Organisers are also looking for local Landcare group photographs from the past 40 years, in particular:
- First group photographs
- Group activities (tree planting, events, fencing etc)
- Before and After photographs
- Multi-generational Landcare members
Videos and photographs are due by 28 July 2026.
All details about the Landcare celebrations and related activities including entry forms and details are available at Celebrating 40 years of Landcare
Contact Richie Dalkin, Regional Landcare Coordinator, richard.dalkin@necma.vic.gov.au or 0409 683 467