The Dirty Hands newsletter May 2025
In this issue, we share reflections from our Connecting Communities with Landcare project, Agfest 2025, and much more!
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Last week was National Volunteer Week, when we celebrate volunteers across the nation. We are so grateful for the extraordinary efforts of our volunteers who give their time to Landcare in Lutruwita/Tasmania. Our Landcare community of more than 7,000 volunteers state-wide stands as a testament to what passionate individuals can achieve. Every weekend, Tasmanians head out with gloves, tools, and community spirit. These aren’t just clean-up missions, they’re acts of love for the land and for future generations. The commitment shown by volunteers forges strong, connected communities. In an age where global environmental challenges can feel overwhelming, local action offers hope. Volunteering with your local Landcare group is a tangible way to make a difference. It empowers people to be part of the solution and reminds us that big change starts small—one weed pulled, one seed planted, one hour offered. Thank you everyone! |
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Your bottles help boost our conservation effortsAs the major donation partner of Recycle Rewards until 31 August, we are aiming to raise $10,000 to support local Landcare groups across the state. Landcare Tasmania CEO Peter Stronach says the container refund scheme is a fantastic addition to our fundraising activities, making it easier than ever to reduce litter while supporting on-the-ground grassroots conservation. “Tasmanians have long embraced conservation, with community-led efforts protecting and restoring our landscapes,” he said. “Each bottle and can the community donates will support our Landcare community in caring for our land, water and wildlife. “These generous donations will support a range of programs, including our hugely popular Let’s Explore Waste school education initiative, as well as restoration projects that return health and vitality to local ecosystems, including platypus habitats. “We also hope this campaign will draw more people to join the Landcare movement. “This seemingly small action – choosing to donate your container refund to us – multiplied across thousands of Tasmanians, adds up to make a significant difference to grassroots environmental efforts,” he said. |
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Photo: Hobart Rivulet Bushcare group convenor John James, Landcare Tasmania CEO Peter Stronach and Andi Drury from TOMRA Cleanaway. |
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Reflections from AgfestWith spectacular weather and huge crowds, our Landcare Tas team came back with lots of stories from their time at Agfest 2025.
We look forward to continuing the conversations sparked during Agfest and welcoming more Tasmanians into the Landcare movement. Huge thank you to our speakers and volunteers - including representatives from East Tamar Landcare, Friends of the Leven, Glenmore Farm Landcare group, West Tamar Landcare and individual members Tim Reed and Kerry Bridle. We couldn't have done it without you! |
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Sharing knowledge & connecting peopleWe loved our recent Connecting Communities with Landcare sessions in the Midlands.
One workshop was all about growing seeds and nurturing strawberry plants, which saw tenants of all ages pitch in and get their hands dirty. |
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We've also worked alongside tenants to spread mulch and create a communal garden and green space. It was great to hear everyone sharing the excitement of working together to make positive change.
We can't wait to see how this site evolves as it progresses with a raised garden beds and a green space. The aim of the Connecting Communities with Landcare project is working with tenant communities to improve mental health, connection, and sense of belonging through growing food and connecting with nature. Landcare Tasmania is undertaking this project in partnership with Loreto Community Housing. The project is funded by the Department for Social Services as part of the Strong and Resilient Communities Activity - Inclusive Communities grants program. |
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Member Spotlight | Friends of CollinsvaleThe Friends of Collinsvale are an enthusiastic group that works together to educate about weeds and their removal as well as undertaking rubbish removal, track work, and improving shared natural areas through working bees and get togethers.
In addition to this, they also run Nature Journaling workshops on the last Friday each month where you can get immersed in art and nature.
Sign up here for the next Nature Journaling with Friends of Collinsvale. Photo caption: Helen Burnet Greens MP for Clark recently met with Dr Tanya Scharaschkin and other members of the Friends of Collinsvale group for a nature journaling session. |
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News & events |
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Join a local Landcare group!Keen to get involved? Check out our directory of groups and the upcoming working bees/events happening all over the state! |
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Interested in joining us?
Thanks from the team at Landcare Tasmania We want to hear from you! (03) 6234 7117 |
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Landcare Tasmania acknowledges that the island of Lutruwita/Tasmania is Aboriginal Land, sovereignty was not, and never will be, ceded. Aboriginal people have cared for the lands, waterways, skies and communities of Lutruwita/Trouwerner since the beginning of time.We pay respects to the palawa / pakana of Lutruwita/ Trouwerner and strive to fulfil our simple but collective vision – That all Tasmanian communities are empowered and enabled to care for the land and waterways of Lutruwita/Trouwerner.Landcare Tasmania is committed to continuously listening, learning and building stronger relationships with Aboriginal communities. |
