The deadline to enter the 2021 NSW Landcare Awards, which recognise individuals and groups for their outstanding contributions to preserving the state's landscape, are closing soon with Landcare and Local Land Services encouraging all landholders, community groups and students to nominate.
Acting Local Land Services Statewide chair, Allison Harker, said the awards are an opportunity to celebrate and honour Landcare champions across NSW excelling in sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
"Following bushfires, drought and floods, there are so many projects in NSW, that deserve to be recognised," Ms Harker said.
"Whether they be habitat restoration for threatened species or innovative farming practices, each should receive recognition.
"These projects play a vital role in restoring and maintaining our environment at a local level, and the Landcare awards are a terrific opportunity to recognise and reward hard work and passion."
Landcare NSW chair, Stephanie Cameron, said the awards enable NSW Landcarers to be recognised for their important contributions in natural resource management and community participation.
"Landcare is about communities working together to create positive outcomes for the community, environment and the agricultural landscape across NSW," Mrs Cameron said.
Landcare is about communities working together to create positive outcomes for the community, environment and the agricultural landscape across NSW. It has never been more important that we continue to support and recognise the dedication and commitment of our Landcarers and recognise their tremendous efforts.
- Stephanie Cameron, Landcare NSW chair
"It has never been more important that we continue to support and recognise the dedication and commitment of our Landcarers and recognise their tremendous efforts."
There are eight categories of awards from which to choose:
- Australian Government Individual Landcarer Award;
- Australian Government Partnerships for Landcare Award;
- Australian Government Landcare Farming Award;
- Coastcare Award;
- Landcare Community Group Award;
- Woolworths Junior Landcare Team Award;
- KPMG Indigenous Land Management Award; and
- Young Landcare Leadership Award.
NSW winners will be announced at the 2022 NSW Landcare and Local Land Services Conference held in March at Tweed Heads.
Landcare Australia CEO Shane Norrish said the Landcare Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of those leading the wider community to engage and participate in managing the environment and natural resources in their local area.
"Volunteers play a vital role in restoring and maintaining our environment at a local level, and the prestigious Landcare Awards are a terrific opportunity to acknowledge their efforts and celebrate their achievements," Mr Norrish said.
"The Landcare Awards program is an opportunity to recognise not only the volunteers and groups making a real difference, but highlight the crucial role Landcare plays in the Australian community."
- Nominations can be lodged at www.landcareaustralia.org.au/landcare-awards-2021/ and are open until Sunday, October 31.
