We’re thrilled to have 21 small property landholders from across North East Victoria taking part in this year’s Healthy Hectares program, a six-part workshop series focused on sustainable land management.
Each workshop is led by local experts and explores key themes:
📍 Property Planning
🌿 Biodiversity
🪱 Soils
🌾 Pastures
🐾 Pest Plants & Animals
💧 Water Management
The program offers practical, region-specific advice to help landholders respond to climate change, enhance natural assets, and boost property productivity.
Following is what we have covered so far:
Workshop 1: Property Planning
Damien Gerrans (Gecko CLaN Landcare) kicked off the series in Wangaratta with a fantastic session on property planning. Participants mapped their land’s natural features, including topography, native vegetation, and cultural heritage, and created tailored action plans for sustainable management.
Workshop 2: Biodiversity & Conservation
Participants explored how small changes, like planting the right species and creating habitat, can make a big difference for local wildlife.
A field trip showcased how enhancing natural areas not only supports conservation but also improves property value.
Thanks to Karen Retra (WULN), Shae Brennan (Trust for Nature), and Sue Brunskill for their inspiring insights!
Workshop 3: Soil Health
Agroecologist David Hardwick (Soil Land Food) guided participants through a hands-on deep dive into soil systems.
Highlights included:
- DIY soil sample assessments
- Understanding soil type, fertility & function
- Identifying issues like compaction, salinity & pH imbalance
- Learning how to use soil tests to guide soil improvement
- Discovering practical strategies to build healthy, productive soils
🎥 Curious about Healthy Hectares?
Check out our video: Healthy Hectares North East
Interested in the 2026 Healthy Hectares program?
Contact Project Officer Gervaise Gaunt at Gervaise@wodongalandcare.org.au to register your interest.
Healthy Hectares is proudly supported by the Australian Government’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust.
