The 2023 and 2024 Healthy Hectares programs have successfully empowered in excess of 90 small landholders across 56 properties in North East Victoria with essential skills and knowledge in sustainable land management.
Healthy Hectares is an innovative educational program designed for small landholders. The program addresses a critical need in the region, which is experiencing an influx of new rural property owners and faces significant biodiversity challenges. Through a series of workshops covering topics such as whole farm planning, biodiversity, pest management, soil health, pasture management, and water management, Healthy Hectares equips participants to become effective stewards of their land. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation, the program plays a vital role in preserving the region’s unique ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and building resilient rural communities capable of adapting to climate challenges.
The Healthy Hectares program thrives on the collaborative efforts of key organizational partners. The Healthy Hectares North East program is an initiative originally developed by Goulburn Broken CMA and Euroa Arboretum and launched in the North East in 2020.
The program is driven by the Wodonga Urban Landcare Network, with support from other North East Landcare Networks. The involvement of local Landcare Facilitators, regional subject matter experts and agencies such as Agriculture Victoria, Trust for Nature and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action ensures that participants receive up-to-date, area-specific guidance. Beyond the transfer of knowledge, Healthy Hectares fosters valuable community connections. Participants not only learn from experts but also from each other, sharing experiences and forming supportive networks with community members facing similar land management challenges. This community-building aspect of the program has led to increased engagement with local Landcare groups, with many participants either joining or intending to join these organizations. By creating these lasting connections, Healthy Hectares strengthens the fabric of rural communities, promoting ongoing collaboration and support among landholders long after the formal program ends.
“The success of Healthy Hectares has exceeded our expectations,” said Jo Vincent, Wodonga Urban Landcare Network Facilitator. “Participants have not only gained valuable knowledge but are actively implementing sustainable practices on their properties. Evaluation of the program has seen all participants develop whole farm plans, a 40% increase in knowledge and skills and a satisfaction rating of the program of 9.4 out of 10”
Participant feedback highlights the program’s impact:
“It was fantastic to meet like-minded people and learn from them. I am amazed at the quality of this series of events aimed at smaller landholders,” said one participant.
Another added, “I have gained more confidence in being able to manage our property effectively due to my attendance at these workshops.”
Participants reported implementing a wide range of sustainable practices, including:
- Improved water management systems and dam management practices
- Wildlife-friendly fencing
- Soil testing and pasture improvements
- Creation of shelter belts and biodiversity corridors
- Enhanced weed and pest management strategies
Most recently this program has received funding support from the North East Catchment Management Authority and the Victorian Government’s Our Catchments Our Communities Project, Healthy Hectares is playing a crucial role in building resilient rural communities, practicing sustainable land management practices.
For more information about Healthy Hectares and to enquire about upcoming workshops please contact info@wodongalandcare.org.au
