The recent Mid Coast Muster in Wootton brought together an inspiring group of Landcarers, Elders, and local organisations to share stories, strategies, and collaboration opportunities. Olivia Meredith, Shared Services Hub Manager with the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, described the day as truly valuable and uplifting.
The event opened with an Acknowledgement of Country from Aunty Janice, a Worimi Elder from Forster, who shared some words in the local Gathang language. Olivia had the privilege to sit next to Aunty Janice and learn about her family and connection to Country, community fundraising, and singing in the choir!
Presentations highlighted a range of initiatives. Coastcare shared their long-term strategy to reduce the impacts of coastal erosion and sea rise on the littoral rainforests of the Manning Coast through increased canopy and coastal tree plantings extending to beyond 2060. Former ABC weather presenter, Graham Creed, spoke about the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), weather prediction accuracy, and new forecasting technology.
Local Landcare groups showcased early childhood education programs teaching river care, including Aboriginal Elders sharing The Dreaming stories of the Platypus. One little boy (4 years old) attending said that, “Landcare makes his heart happy”. Carolyn Davies, President of Mid Coast 2 Tops Landcare Connection, presented the organisation’s strategy, new constitution, and ways to get involved – many attendees are already volunteering!
There were lively discussions and a fun native flora and fauna trivia game. A very engaged and supportive group made for a fantastic muster.
Congratulations and a big thank you to everyone involved especially Mid Coast 2 Tops Landcare Connection, Karuah and Great Lakes Landcare, Manning Coastcare, and Manning Landcare. This initiative was made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services NSW and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.
Story by Landcare NSW / Photos: Bottom right by Olivia Meredith, Landcare NSW; Feature image and bottom left by John Sahouyn.
