Catchment Connect Project launches in Orielton

It was a bright and breezy day at Logie Farm, Orielton, as community members, partners, and supporters gathered to celebrate the launch of Landcare Tasmania’s Catchment Connect Project.

The event marked the start of this important five-year, statewide initiative designed to enhance farm dams, improve biodiversity, and strengthen landscape resilience across Tasmania.

Farm manager Lachlan Van Balen shared his experience of recent on-ground works undertaken through the project, including fencing to limit stock access and revegetation around his farm dam. These changes have already delivered visible results — improving water quality and attracting more birdlife to the property.

Delivered by Landcare Tasmania, the Catchment Connect Project is funded through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, with support from the Tasmanian Landcare Fund. The project will provide $4 million over five years to coordinate on-ground works, run community workshops and field days, and support catchment and Healthy Country planning in partnership with farmers, Landcare groups, and First Nations organisations.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, joined the launch alongside project partners and members of the local Landcare community.

Image: Farm manager Lachlan Van Balen, Julie Collins MP and Landcare Tasmania CEO Peter Stronach.

Landcare Tasmania CEO Peter Stronach said the project represents a major step forward for Tasmania’s farm and catchment health.

“Catchment Connect is about connecting our communities, our landholders, and our First Nations partners to build landscapes that are resilient to the challenges of climate change,” Mr Stronach said.

“By enhancing farm dams, protecting waterways, and supporting biodiversity, we are investing not only in the health of our environment but in the long-term productivity of Tasmanian farms.”

The day concluded with a tour of the farm dam site and morning tea, as guests shared insights and ideas about how local action can drive statewide impact.

Healthy Country Services director Lyndon O'Neil (left) and Kerry Bridle (right), both from the Landcare Tasmania Members Council, joined CEO Peter Stronach at the official launch event. 

 

Catchment Connect will continue to work with communities across Tasmania to demonstrate practical, scalable solutions for healthy landscapes that benefit both people and nature.

Find out more on the Catchment Connect Project

 

Thanks to our project partners:

TAS Farm Innovation Hub
NRM South
Tasmanian Irrigation
Australian National University
Cradle Coast NRM
Coal River Products Association
Friends of Leven Landcare Group
NRM North
Quamby Bend Landcare Group
Healthy Country Services

This project received funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Tasmanian Landcare Fund.