GeoCatch is calling on local grazing landholders to register their interest in undertaking a
riparian restoration project in 2027.
The GeoCatch Stream Restoration Program provides funding and practical support to help
landholders protect and restore rivers, creeks and streams on their properties. GeoCatch
funds the material costs associated with approved projects, such as stock-exclusion fencing
materials (including wire, posts and gates) and native seedlings. Participating landholders
contribute approximately 50 per cent of the project value through their own labour, such as
installing fencing and planting seedlings, or by engaging a contractor to undertake the
works.
GeoCatch Project Officer, Michelle Priest, said restoring riparian areas delivers significant
benefits for both farms and the environment.
“Healthy riparian zones are some of the most important parts of our landscape. By fencing
and removing stock access to waterways, landholders can improve water quality, reduce
erosion and allow native vegetation to recover,” Michelle said.
“These projects create habitat for native wildlife, stabilise banks, and provide valuable shade
and shelter for stock, delivering benefits both on-farm and across the wider catchment.
Among the landholders already benefiting from the program is Anniebrook farmer Luke Hill,
who completed fencing works in 2025 and is undertaking revegetation activities this year.
“It’s a fantastic program. The support from GeoCatch has meant that I can fully rehabilitate
my creek line and turn it into a functioning ecosystem. Without it, it would’ve taken so much
longer,” Luke said.
“We can already picture what the creek will look like in years to come, and that’s pretty
special.”
Landholders interested in undertaking a restoration project are welcome to attend a free
workshop on Saturday 29 August at Geographe Community Landcare Nursery, designed to
help participants plan a successful restoration project and learn more about the
opportunities available through the program.
Participants will also visit a local restoration site that was completed five years ago to see
the long-term outcomes of riparian rehabilitation and gain inspiration for projects on their
own properties.
Stream Restoration funding is available to livestock-grazing properties located within the Geographe Catchment.
For more information about the Program, register for the workshop, or submit an
Expression of Interest, visit http://www.geocatch.asn.au/project/stream-restoration-fencing-and-revegetating
This project is part of Healthy Estuaries WA and Revitalising Geographe Waterways. These
State Government initiatives aim to support the long-term health of our south-west
waterways.
