December 12th, 2021Sustainability awards

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s ‘Healthy Landscapes for Healthy Livestock’ project has been selected as a finalist in the Healthy Environment category of the 2021 Premier’s Sustainability Awards.
The awards celebrate individuals, communities and organisations across Victoria who are leading the way in sustainability.
The ‘Healthy Landscapes for Healthy Livestock’ project was developed in response to the opportunities identified to improve land management outcomes across the Macedon Ranges Shire. The program specifically was designed to help address issues around over grazing, weed invasion, loss of native grasslands and reports that farmers were struggling to afford importing feed stock.
The aim was to build the capacity of local livestock farmers to implement regenerative agriculture techniques that improved soil health, enhanced biodiversity and enhanced on-farm resilience to a changing climate.
An evaluation from 110 participants indicated that 100 per cent of respondents had changed their land management practices in a positive way.
Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson said she was delighted to hear that the program was a finalist.
“Well done to the Healthy Landscapes team for their ongoing work to support sustainable farming practices, not only in the Macedon Ranges, but throughout the wider Loddon Mallee region.
“I would also like to congratulate all of the finalists on their truly impressive entries—we are looking forward to the opportunity to celebrate our collective achievements,” she said.
This program—which is now called the ‘Healthy Landscapes: Practical Regenerative Agricultural Communities program’—has been extended for another 12 months in partnership with Hepburn Shire Council, the City of Greater Bendigo, A Healthy Coliban Catchment project (North Central Catchment Management Authority and Coliban Water), Melbourne Water and the Upper Campaspe Landcare Network.
The winners of the 2021 Premier’s Sustainability Awards will be announced at an online ceremony on Tuesday 23 November. Book your free ticket at sustainability.vic.gov.au/psa
To find out more about the Healthy Landscapes: Practical Regenerative Agricultural Communities program, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/healthylandscapes or call 5422 0333.