Archives for June 2015

Coastcare program up and running

Jaime · Jun 29, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Volunteers helping to clean up Bucasia Beach — To help us improve our Coastcare Activities, the Coastal Team is taking suggestions for activities and information sessions you want to see throughout the year. From beach yoga to turtle talks, we are open to suggestions! Please let us know what you would like to see on offer over the next year.

The Coastcare program is up and running again with some brave volunteers heading out (despite the wet weather) to give some much needed TLC to Bucasia Beach recently.

Thanks to the support of Mackay Regional Council and Reef Catchments, the team of volunteers spent the morning removing weeds and tending to native vegetation.

“Five years ago, I had never seen this weed in the area, it’s great to see an enthusiastic group taking care of the beach” said Mark, a local resident.

Bucasia is a nesting beach for the Flatback turtle and has great aesthetic and recreational value to the community.

“Removing plastic and other litter is beneficial the people who enjoy our beaches, but it also protects our wildlife,” said Jess Berryman, Reef Catchments coastal officer.

“Removal of weeds allows native plants to re-establish which in turn works to stabilise the dunes, serves as habitat and a food source for native wildlife and builds coastal resilience to severe weather events.

“Looking after our beaches is everyone’s responsibility, we need to be mindful of the beautiful coastline we have and what we don’t want to lose. Coastcare starts with you.”

Reef Catchments and Mackay Regional Council are rolling out Coastcare activities on your local beaches, for more information, please contact Jess Berryman

E: Jessica.berryman@reefcatchments.com | M: 0429155841 |

This program is a joint initiative of Reef Catchments and Mackay Regional Council with support from the Australian Government and the Mackay Regional Council’s Natural Environment Levy.

Countdown to release of Mackay-Whitsunday waterway health report card

Jaime · Jun 29, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Members of the Mackay-Whitsunday Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership tour Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal facilities at the Port of Hay Point.

The Mackay-Whitsunday Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership was launched in October 2014 as a collaboration between 28 partners from across the community, including Traditional Owners, farmers and fishers, industry, science, tourism and government.

The Partnership is founded on a shared vision for the region’s rivers and reefs – to ensure they are healthy and contribute to a prosperous and iconic region where people visit, live, work and play.

One of the Partnership’s objectives is to produce an annual report card on the health of the region’s waterways, including the catchments and estuaries of the Don, Proserpine, Pioneer, O’Connell and Plane basins, and the inshore and offshore marine and reef areas. The Partnership will release its pilot report card in late 2015.

To develop the report card, the Partnership is using the best available independent science, including results from a range of regional monitoring programs. The report card will help community, industry, science, tourism and government work together to determine how and where we can do more to look after our waterways. Since the launch of the Partnership, the project team has undertaken a lot of work to develop the report card.

In February 2015, Partners and members of the Technical Working Group came together for a workshop run by the University of Maryland to develop a mock-up of the report card. The group discussed the layout and key elements to be included.

Heath Kelsey, Program Director (Integration and Application Network) at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, ran the workshop, drawing on his extensive experience to guide the Partners through the process. Participants agreed that the workshop helped them better understand the process of developing a report card.

Kim Delaney, the Reef Catchments Technical Officer, along with the Technical Working Group, has been working hard to pull together the program design for the pilot report card. This has included developing objectives, and comparing existing report card indicators and scoring methods to provide the most relevant indicators for the Mackay-Whitsunday region.

The Reef Water Quality Protection Plan Independent Science Panel (ISP) reviews all scientific products produced by the Partnership. At its most recent meeting on 17 and 18 June, the ISP reviewed and endorsed the program design for the pilot report card.

The Partnership is currently seeking new members for 2015/16 to continue the great work that the Partners have undertaken so far, and to further build on the strong relationships they have developed. For further information on becoming a member or to request a copy of the Value Proposition, please contact Secretariat at info@healthyriverstoreef.org.au or 3330 5792.

For further information on the Partnership please go the website healthyriverstoreef.org.au or subscribe to the Partnership newsletter: CLICK HERE.

Ella swims free after time spent in turtle care

Jaime · Jun 29, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Eco Barge's Turtle Rescue Centre has provided care for nine turtles like Ella so far in 2015. — Eco Barge’s Turtle Rescue Centre has provided care for nine turtles like Ella so far in 2015.

Reef Catchments' coastal officer Olivia Brodhurst and Stefanie Wabnik at the recent turtle release and marine clean-up event. — Reef Catchments’ coasts officer Olivia Brodhurst and Stefanie Wabnik at the recent turtle release and marine clean-up event.

It’s no mean feat moving a 170kg green turtle, but there were smiles all round when ‘Ella Emily Sugar’ was re-released in the Whitsundays recently (Saturday June 20, 2015).

Reef Catchments was proud to be the financial sponsor of the release event, with Ella emerging refreshed after spending time in care at the Eco Barge Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.

Ella was picked up four weeks previously in Pioneer Bay suffering with float. After a round of worming medication and some TLC from Eco Barge’s fantastic crew, the huge turtle was back to full health and ready to be released back into the seagrass lined bay where she was first picked up.

Ella is thought to be over 80 years old, a fully grown adult green turtle. The cause of her float could have been due to being hit by a boat or illness brought on from other environmental stressors. Eco Barge’s Turtle Rescue Centre has provided care for nine turtles like Ella so far in 2015.

Two Reef Catchments officers together with representatives from the Proserpine Indigenous Reference Group (PIRG) joined Libby Edge and Dave Young from Eco Barge on the release and clean-up trip.

After the turtle release the group headed to nearby beaches and mangrove lined rocky shores to clean up marine debris. The amount of waste collected by the team in a few hours was astonishing. The debris included foam mattresses, boat parts (hatches, cabin doors), rope, buoys, fishing line, cans, bottles and much more.

The debris will be weighed and sorted for recycling this week however the first estimates are that 270kg of debris was collected. Removing this waste from our fragile coastal ecosystems and prime recreational locations is assisting to keep the region healthy and pristine.

Congratulations to Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. for their dedication and continued enthusiasm.

This project is supported by Reef Catchments, through funding from the Australian Government.

Local sea turtles thank the Mackay Coastal Clean Up volunteers

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Volunteers removed 4.8 tonne of marine debris from 12 beaches. — Mackay Coastal Clean Up volunteers removed 4.8 tonne of marine debris from 12 beaches.

Eco Barge Clean Seas in partnership with BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) held their sixth Mackay Coastal Clean Up from 23-24 May.

Reef Catchments teamed up as part of the initiative and were out in full force at the Reef Catchments formally adopted clean-up beach, Town Beach.

Event organiser Libby Edge said the event was a massive success, with 4.8 tonne of marine debris was removed from 12 beaches thanks to the 326 volunteers who helped clean our coastline from Shoal Point to Cape Palmerston during the weekend-long event.

The Saturday was World Turtle Day ® and it was very fitting that the Mackay Coastal Clean Up volunteers helped to clean local beaches to ultimately protect our local marine life and sea turtles from marine debris.

Bucasia resident and volunteer Nicola Oliver said her family really enjoyed the chance to spend time together.

“Helping to clean the beautiful beaches and protect our turtles from marine debris, and to see so many people cleaning our beaches is wonderful,” she said.

Libby said the Mackay Coastal Clean Up had now removed 24,806 kilograms of marine debris since October 2012.

“This is a massive amount of litter collected from the beaches of Mackay and Sarina and we couldn’t have achieved this amazing result with our the overwhelming support from the Mackay and Sarina residents especially our Partner BMA and all the supporters who adopted each of the target beaches of Mackay and Sarina over that past three years,” she said.

“This event has been a major success and fills me with pride just how much the Mackay and Sarina Community care for their coastline. Everyone involved should be immensely proud as they have all helped to remove a just under 25 tonne of marine debris from our local marine environment.”

Jess Berryman, Reef Catchments coastal officer, said Reef Catchments was proud to be involved in such a proactive event.

“Initiatives like the Mackay Coastal Clean Up really get the community on board and help ensure everyone plays a part in preserving the health of the region’s coastline and marine fauna now and for future generations,” she said.

For more information visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au

Businesses invited to help local students discover our marine backyard

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Mackay high school students in their marine classroom. — Businesses are being invited to sponsor a student to make sure young marine-lovers can get hands-on out on our reef. CLICK HERE to view video.

Mackay Whitsunday schools on a waiting list to discover the beauty of their own marine backyard could be left disappointed without local support.

High school students in the Mackay and Whitsunday region are lucky enough to live near one of the most stunning marine environments in the world.

Unfortunately the cost to get out and about and learn more about the ecosystem and wonder of the Great Barrier Reef can be prohibitive.

Now, local businesses are being invited to sponsor a student to make sure young marine-lovers can get hands-on out on the water, reef and islands as part of the Marine Classroom Program.

The program was set up in 2014, when Wild Mob and Reef Catchments joined forces to offer a learning adventure for local highschool students at a subsidised cost, ensuring any student could afford to be involved.

Reef Catchments is the program’s major funding partner – however with many more schools now eager participate, funding support from local businesses is being sought to meet demand.

Wild Mob CEO, Derek Ball, said increased interest was on the back of a hugely successful inaugral year.

“In the first year of the Marine Classroom Program, we helped take 63 local students on an educational journey to the Great Barrier Reef islands, allowing them to develop important skills in marine studies, boating, science, conservation, biology and more,” he said.

“Word got around like wildfire and we now have many more schools now eager to be involved. As a result, we are putting the call-out to local businesses to partner with the program and support local students.”

Dr Ball said businesses could donate $500, which would cover the cost of taking one student out to the reef. Businesses can also come on board as gold, silver or bronze level sponsors.

He said the program’s popularity proved the importance of connecting young people with the great outdoors.

“To learn theory in the classroom and to get outdoors and learn in real life are two entirely different concepts,” Dr Ball said.

“What we are finding is students are really getting an experience beyond education – for them to get out on the water and see, touch and experience the reef is an experience for life.”

Reef Catchments CEO Robert Cocco said he would strongly encourage other businesses to be involved.

“Reef Catchments is immensely proud to provide Mackay and Whitsunday high school students the chance to get outside and learn from the natural beauty of our region,” Mr Cocco said.

“Investing in our youth is truly an investment into the future of our region. It is about hands-on education through experience – and the Great Barrier Reef and its islands offer one of the best outdoor classrooms in the world.”

Gerri Sticklan, Head Of Social Science from North Mackay State High School said they had been fortunate enough to participate in the 2014 program.

“The fact that this trip was subsided meant that every student could attend. This was crucial in our decision to participate,” she said.

The Marine Classroom Program is aligned with the senior marine science, oceanography and conservation and sustainability curriculums.

Dr Ball said the aim of the program was eventually to grow to encompass students up and down the Queensland Coast – from Brisbane to Cape York.

“But starting locally in the Mackay and Whitsunday region is vital. Trips like these help develop a real connection between our young people, nature and the great outdoors and that is so important in ensuring the future of the Great Barrier Reef and our islands.”

The program is seeking to secure funding for 2015 trips by the end of July, as well as long term partners for 2016 and beyond.

Businesses interested in sponsoring a student can contact Wild Mob or Reef Catchments on the details below.

Wild Mob – Marine Classroom Program
Derek Ball derek@wildmob.org | 0400 835 895 (Mobile)
Jess Berryman P: (07) 4968 4226 | F: 0429 155 841 | E: jessica.berryman@reefcatchments.com

Reef Catchments welcomes new NRM leader to Mackay

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Katrina Dent, has joined the team at Reef Catchments. — Reef Catchments welcomes new manager, Katrina Dent, to the team.

Reef Catchments has welcomed a new NRM (natural resource management) leader to its Mackay office.

Reef Catchments newly appointed manager, Katrina Dent, brings more than 20 years of planning experience to the team and will focus on growing natural resource management outcomes and programs to enhance and protect the region and lifestyle we love.

“The Mackay Whitsunday region and community leads a lifestyle of getting out and about and enjoying our natural resources – whether it be visiting the Whitsunday islands, fishing in dams or offshore, or watching our agricultural industries grow and diversify,” Mrs Dent said.

“We are fortunate to have a rich diversity of natural resources that we rely on, enjoy and are rightfully proud of – a feature that we can show and share with family and friends.”

Mrs Dent has worked previously for both local and state government in the Mackay and Rockhampton regions. She has a strong history in strategic planning for regional growth, having formerly provided direction for Mackay Whitsunday coastal development. She has also been involved in the drafting and release of the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac (MWI) Regional Plan, which outlines a 20-year strategic vision for the wider region.

“I see natural resource management and planning as a key contributor to a sustainable community, and believe my experience and understanding of regional growth pressures will assist me in working with diverse stakeholders across the board to achieve NRM outcomes,” Mrs Dent said.

“I will be working within Reef Catchments to identify new and additional projects that can be undertaken to progress and enhance the natural resources of Mackay, Isaac and the Whitsundays.”

Reef Catchments CEO, Robert Cocco, said Katrina’s appointment to the Reef Catchments Group would help highlight regional NRM priorities moving forward.

“We are pleased to welcome Katrina to her new role. Katrina brings a wealth of expertise and insight into regional planning and is ideally placed to help facilitate best-practice resource management across our region, community and industries,” Mr Cocco said.

“Natural resource management is not just a phrase. At its core it asks, what condition do we want to leave our region and its landscape – our beaches, rainforest, waterways, ocean, bush, town and air – for the next generation?

“Management of our natural assets today will set our path for tomorrow and it is crucial to find the right balance for sustainable development. We look forward to having Katrina work alongside our team of NRM specialists and within the wider community to continue to deliver strong natural resource outcomes.”

To contact Katrina click here.

DIY fertiliser a winning concept for Eton cane farmer

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Biofertiliser made on farm by John and Michael Attard — Biofactory: The Attards have been trialling the application of bio-fertilisers, made on-farm.

Improved soil health and structure. — A major anticipated trial benefit is improved soil health and structure.

Participants at a Field Day in Eton. — Participants learn more at a recent Field Day in Eton.

According to Kym Kruse, Director of RegenAG®, for farmers, seeing is believing.

Demonstrations took place on a North Eton cane farm recently (24 June), with local growers invited to take a look and learn more.

For the last 12 months, Eton growers John and Michael Attard have been working with RegenAG® to test a whole systems approach to production, which includes the application of bio-fertilisers, made DIY on the farm.

“The Attard’s have jumped in and are making significant practice change over a 100 hectare crop area. They have created a range of different inputs, and modified equipment to address how these are best applied,” Mr Kruse said.

“We have worked with them to provide support on how to produce their own inputs on-farm, while also creating farm efficiencies. Significantly, the outcomes they are seeing now 12 months in have been achieved at a reduced cost of production.”

Mr Kruse said results to date were encouraging, pointing to production savings; as well as gains in yield and improvements in soil health.

“For example, the water holding capacity of the soil has improved to the point that the growers have saved more than $1500 in pumping costs, thanks to a decreased reliance on irrigation,” Mr Kruse said.

“At this stage, they are also expecting a yield increase. With the cut only just starting, the final results of the first 12 months of the Attard family working with this system are not yet known. However the first 4 hectares cut have shown an increase of 5 tonne/ha. On average, John believes he has approximately a 10 tonne increase in yield, with a two point average sugar content higher than the mill.”

Participants also had the opportunity to observe simple equipment modifications that can be made on-farm for optimal application.

“For example, the Attard’s have modified a spray rig unit to carry three 2000 litre tanks, capable of application over 20 hectares in an hour. They have also been extremely innovative in setting up a mechanism that allows them to fertigate, directly injecting the bio-ferments in with the irrigation water to maintain nutrition to the plants during that period. ” Mr Kruse said.

“In all industries as with cane, margins are getting tighter, so these kinds of savings can make a big difference economically together with having an environmental benefit.”

Mr Kruse said while the Attard’s still used synthetic fertilisers such as N, the trial pointed to a rapidly growing interest from sugar farmers seeking alternatives.

“What we are seeing is a marked increase in interest from typically conventional farmers who want to head a more biological way, but are wondering where to turn.

“There is a real mindset change happening and the reason is being driven by declining yields, declining soil health, the desire to reduce nitrogen inputs and tighter and tighter margins.

“There is a lot of pressure on farmers and the economics are forcing people to look at what they are currently doing and say ‘how can I do this better?’”

Reef Catchments Sustainable Ag officer, Daniel O’Keeffe, said there were plenty of options for local cane growers to explore.

“While making inputs is not going to be every farmers cup of tea, there are plenty of options out there and we are encouraging local growers to come along and learn more,” he said.

“The Attard’s have seen real cost-savings as well as a reduction in herbicides, pesticide and fertiliser application with better soil health and water quality outcomes.

“More and more we are seeing there are significant economic benefits to practices that are also more sound ecologically.”

For more information contact Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture officer Daniel O’Keeffe – CLICK HERE.

Strong interest in soil health from Mackay Whitsunday farmers

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Simon Mattsson, cane farmer, talks about soil health to stakeholders at his Marian property. — Simon Mattsson (cane farmer and Nuffield Scholar) talks soil health to stakeholders at his Marian property.

Simon Mattsson with some of the many different plants on his cane farm. — The trial is focused on introducing plant diversity. including the integration of radish, turnip, chickpea, soybean, common vetch, sunflowers, cereal rye and oats (planted beside the sugarcane stool after harvest).

Farmers across the region are showing an unsurpassed interest in soil health, with more than 100 local growers gathering for this year’s Soil Health Field Day in Marian (held Tuesday 26 May).

Reef Catchments sustainable agriculture officer, Daniel O’Keeffe said a record number of attendees also provided plenty of positive feedback, including on the topics of multi-species intercropping and commercial composting in the sugarcane industry.

Event coordinator and Marian grower, Simon Mattsson, said the challenge of restoring and improving soil health was one of the biggest issues facing sugar producers in today’s market.

“The bar has been set too low for soil health,” Mr Mattsson said. “While there is a general awareness that soil health is not what it should be, I firmly believe many growers are unaware of just how serious the problem is. What we saw at the field day however is that there is major interest from growers in learning more and we need to make sure that information is available and out there for people to access.”

Presenters on the day included pasture cropping pioneer Colin Seis, and Gerry Gillespie, driver of the City to Soil Project, who looked at how to make compost inexpensively on-farm.

Mr Mattsson said in the Mackay region there were several issues consistently resurfacing as the ‘Big C’s’ of soil health.

“Regionally, what we are seeing across the board is a focus on the ‘Big C’s’ – seriously low levels of soil carbon; seriously compacted soils; and seriously low available soil calcium. These three big issues of soil health are a critical challenge for sugar farmers that will impact the future viability of our industry,” he said.

The day included a breakfast and soil health presentations at Wests Leagues Club, followed by a farm field tour at Simon’s Marian property to view his ongoing soil health trial.

The trial is focused on introducing plant diversity. including the integration of radish, turnip, chickpea, soybean, common vetch, sunflowers, cereal rye and oats, which are planted beside the sugarcane stool after harvest. In similar trials undertaken in the US, increased plant diversity has been shown to increase the spectrum of species within the soil biology populations, in turn increasing soil carbon and nitrogen fixation, as well as the uptake of all nutrients.

“In the Mackay region, a monoculture cropping system has lead to declining levels of soil carbon and reduced diversity in the soil biology – this trial aims to show the benefits of reintroducing plant diversity,” Mr Mattsson said.

“Ultimately, we need to find a multi-pronged approach to address soil health. I don’t think raising soil carbon levels to about 3% is out of reach for our region.”

To view a detailed case study of Simon’s trial CLICK HERE.

The event was free for growers and hosted by Mr Mattsson (grower and Nuffield Agricultural Scholar), with funding and support from Reef Catchments, CANEGROWERS, Wilmar, Mackay Sugar, MAPS, Mackay Rural Supplies, North Queensland Tropical Seeds and Superior Fertilisers.

This initiative was supported by Reef Catchments, with funding through the Australian Government.

To follow the trial and keep up to date with Simon’s results find Simon Mattsson on Facebook, or contact Reef Catchments (Daniel O’Keeffe) on P: (07) 4945 2321 | M: 0488 730 021 | daniel.okeeffe@reefcatchments.com

Central Queensland graziers convene in Mackay

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Graziers gathered at the Reef Catchments Central Queensland Sustainable Grazing Forum 2015 in June. — More than 120 graziers gathered at the Reef Catchments Central Queensland Sustainable Grazing Forum 2015 in June.

Presenter Geoff Niethe, Research Coordinator from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

AgForce Policy Manager Lauren Hewitt presented on vegetation and tenure legislation, now and into the future.

Graziers and industry members from across the Queensland Coast gathered in Mackay recently (June 3^rd) for the annual Sustainable Grazing Forum 2015.

More than 120 attendees travelled from up to 200km to find out more about the big issues for beef production: from breeding and biosecurity, to soil health and new pasture varieties for the region.

With a focus on more sustainable practices, forum coordinator Michael Boland said the event was a major success.

“The Mackay Grazing Forum is one of the only events focused specifically on graziers in our region,” Mr Boland said.

“Significantly, the graziers in the room represented collective management of more than 25,000 ha of land. The day was a chance for us to provide our graziers with the information they need to improve land and pasture management, to focus on challenges and opportunities, and to highlight where efficiencies can be gained.”

Attendees enjoyed the variety of presentations on the day, as well as the chance to network with industry professionals and other graziers.

Issues covered included: policy updates; achievements being made by local graziers through the Australian Government Reef Programme; genetics and breeding; pasture nutrition; control of Giant rat’s tail grass (GRT); and soil health.

Geoff Niethe, Research Coordinator from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) spoke to the group on how to win the ‘world cup’ of cattle by building the best foundation for a breeder herd.

“If you want to win the world cup, you need to have a good junior sports development team coming up through the ranks, Mr Niethe said.

“It’s about considering how to select and prepare the right heifers from a young age for maximum lifelong productivity in the herd. For example, we know from data that cows targeted at certain times of the year are more likely to calf again in a 12-month cycle. Information like that can be critical in adding value to the herd.

“With more pressure on graziers and producers to build efficiencies, there’s certainly areas for improvement in fertility – no one has it quite right yet.”

Ross Dodt, Senior Industry Development Officer for DAF spoke on the challenges facing the local Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac beef industry.

“A problem for many regional beef properties is insufficient scale. For example properties in Area III of the brigalow ballot scheme were originally sub-divided on the basis they would run 800 head of cattle. Technology has enabled producers to stock at higher rates than this but the temptation for some has been to stock at unsustainable rates, hastening problems such as pasture rundown, unwanted pasture specie encroachment and deteriorated land condition,” Mr Dodt said.

“Producers are also feeling the ‘terms of trade’ pinch in a commodity-based market of – how do we juggle the challenge of trying to decrease the cost of production while also raising quality animals that are worth more per head?”

Mr Dodt said there was no ‘one hat fits all’ solution, but that beef producers needed the right information to make an educated decision on how to move forward.

The Queensland Coast Sustainable Grazing Forum is an annual event for the benefit of industry and is free for landholders. Mr Boland said it also played an important role in supporting local grazing networks.

“This event gives graziers the chance to identify further activites or workshops they consider would be of value to the local grazing community. This ensures Reef Catchments continues to deliver events and information tailored to local needs for a sustainable grazing industry,” Mr Boland said.

The forum is supported by Reef Catchments, through funding from the Australian Government.

With thanks to the day’s presenters: Megan Star (DAF), Michelle Smith (DAF), Geoff Neith (MLA), Lauren Hewitt (AgForce), Jim Fletcher (DAF), Neil CLiffe (DAF), Ross Dodt (DAF), Dr Pam Pittaway (University Southern Queensland), Paul Tippett (Heritage Seeds), Amanda Bland (Reef Catchments) and Misko Ivezich (Alluvium); as well as the forum’s wonderful MC, Kim Kleidon.

Graziers wanting more information on how to be involved in upcoming Reef Programme activities can contact:

Michael Boland | M: 0419 191 373 | P: (07) 4968 4215 | E: michael.boland@reefcatchments.com

Participatory scenario planning for sustainability in a changing climate

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Participants at a workshop planning for sustainability in a changing climate. — Taking part in scenario planning for sustainability in a changing climate.

A stakeholder event was held on 11 June 2015 to progress previous workshops focusing around change and future sustainability for the MWI NRM region.

Participants on the day included three levels of government (local, state and federal) alongside conservation, traditional owner, agriculture, education, recreational fishing and community groups.

The day commenced with acknowledgement of previous workshops and actions/ strategies that had already been developed. This was also necessary for participants that had not been involved in the process previously to ensure moving forward in further development of new priority collaborative strategies and actions.

An update on the new climate projections released by CSIRO/ BOM (see http://www.climatechangeinaustralia.gov.au/en/) was provided with additional information on what these projections may mean for communities, industries and biodiversity.

Participants then chose issues to further develop actions and priorities on specific themes that included:

Traditional Owner roles in planning/ management – valuing and respecting Cultural Heritage
Biodiversity re: connectivity across the landscape – marine and the marine terrestrial interface and monitoring
Protection of arable land for agriculture
Value-adding from industry by-products and industry innovation

Information collected from regional stakeholders will form the basis of a Climate Sustainability Plan to be released for comment later this year.

An ongoing outcome from all workshops has been improved understanding of the issues (as well as frustrations) relevant to a changing climate faced by different stakeholders; as well as agreement on priorities for moving to a more sustainable future for the region.

Gathering set to empower women from all walks of life

Jaime · Jun 26, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Celeste Philps and Mena Stemm are coordinating a multicultural event to connect women from all backgrounds and walks of life. — Celeste Philps and Mena Stemm are coordinating a multicultural community event to connect women from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Universal Sisters inspire inaugural women’s multicultural event.

A new event to be held at the Mackay Wintermoon site (Cameron’s Pocket) will bring together women from across cultures and geographic bounds to celebrate, share their stories and learn from each other’s diverse life experiences.

Reef Catchments is proud to support The Gathering which will unite Indigenous women groups from across Australia with women from all walks of life locally to share culture, spark change and create a network of support.

The event is the culmination of a long time dream for organisers, including Kimberley aboriginal woman Mena Stemm and Mackay local Celeste Philps. The pair saw a real need for a forum to encourage women to share, inspire and empower each other.

“This event is a celebration of women. We will have everyone from artists and storytellers, to musicians, healers and performers coming together to inspire, entertain and share their skills,” Celeste said.

“But beyond a celebration, we also want this event to be a driving force for positive change, to bring cultures together and to empower women from all walks of life by recognising and encouraging their capacities and interests.”

Mena said she knew first-hand the importance of giving women a way to connect.

“I am of the Stolen Generation from Beagle Bay Mission in the Kimberley area of Western Australia. I have spent my whole life coming to terms with my past and to recognise my own strength,” she said.

“A forum like this one is so important, because with the right networks and support, women really can make a difference – in their own lives, and the lives of their family and communities.

“It is so vital across cultures that women have a platform to connect and help one another. We are expecting 300 or more inspiring women to be at this year’s event and are so excited about what we can achieve.”

The Gathering will be a four-day, three-night camping event from Friday 28th – Monday 31st August. All women are welcome and invited to attend.

Sponsors are currently being sought for the 2015 event.
To find out more contact Mena Stemm (0439 394 723) or Celeste Philps (0409 491 237).

Reef Catchments is proud to support this Traditional Owner event through funding from the Australian Government.

DIY fertiliser a winning concept for Eton cane farmer

Jaime · Jun 18, 2015 · Leave a Comment

Eton cane farmer Michael Attard with a spray rig modified for optimal application of bio-fertisers. — Eton cane farmer Michael Attard with a spray rig modified for optimal application.

Farmers invited to learn more at Field Day Wednesday 24th June.

According to Kym Kruse, Director of RegenAG, for farmers, seeing is believing.

Demonstrations are taking place on a North Eton cane farm and local growers are being invited to take a look and learn more.

For the last 12 months, Eton cane farmer Michael Attard has been working with Mr Kruse to test a whole systems approach to production, which includes the application of bio-fertilisers, made DIY on the farm.

“We help train farmers on how to produce their own inputs. The Attard’s have jumped in and are making significant practice change over a 100 hectare crop area. They have created a range of different inputs, and modified equipment to address how these are best applied,” Mr Kruse said.

“What we are ready to present now are the results from the first 12 months of this program.”

He said results to date were encouraging, pointing to potential savings in production cost; as well as gains in yield and improvements in soil health.

“At this stage, they are also expecting a yield increase and the results of yield data will be presented at the field day.”

Participants will also have the opportunity to observe simple equipment modifications that can be made on-farm for optimal application.