We had a fantastic turnout to the recent GeoCatch Heavenly Hectares Workshop with Chris Ferreira from The Forever Project on 21 August.
The session was packed with 35 semi-rural and lifestyle landholders eager to learn how to tackle problem spots and plan for the future of their acreage property.
Sustainable land management expert Chris Ferreira shared his experience and insights on creating a sustainable, low-maintenance block plus effective tools and strategies for stock, weed and fire management, soil health and water efficiency and tips on planning and layout.
“There are many different aspects to managing an acreage block and managing it well,” says Lisa Massey, Project Officer at GeoCatch. “With our work across the catchment, we meet many landowners who are new to managing larger properties or are not familiar with the particular land management issues we have in the Geographe Catchment.
“Our small property management workshops are always popular,” says Lisa. “It is marvellous witnessing participants with the same aspirations and who are all experiencing similar problems learn together and regain their passion for their land.”
Attendees were full of inspiration and plans for their property after the workshop concluded, particularly around creating fire-resistant gardens, the importance of weed management, and that healthy soils equal healthy plants.
“I plan to plant more trees, sample soil and improve fire risk management and I now know what type of plants to plant on my property,” said one attendee.
Another aimed to use less herbicide while others wanted to create shelter belts and improve their pasture diversity.
Given the strong community interest and enthusiasm in the room from participants, GeoCatch plans to run a property planning masterclass with Chris Ferreira in the near future. Subscribe to GeoCatch’s newsletter to stay in the loop at geocatch.asn.au.
This event is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust.
