BREAKING: Australia is confronting urgent ecosystem challenges as experts and volunteers converge on the Gold Coast for the 2025 Landcare Australia conference today. Spanning three days, this pivotal event gathers key stakeholders to tackle pressing environmental issues amid a backdrop of climate change and biodiversity loss.
The momentum is palpable as Costa Georgiadis, renowned presenter from Gardening Australia, hosts this significant gathering. This biennial conference marks the nation’s largest platform for knowledge-sharing and networking among landcare advocates, underscoring their vital role in agriculture and conservation.
“Farmers, producers, graziers, and landcarers stand shoulder to shoulder as caretakers of Australia’s land, water, and biodiversity,” stated Doug Humann, chair of Landcare Australia. His remarks highlight the unity among diverse stakeholders as they strive to protect the environment.
Key topics on the agenda include climate adaptation, biodiversity, and Indigenous-led conservation methods. Su McCluskey, chief executive of the National Farmers’ Federation, emphasized the crucial role farmers play, stating, “Farmers care for more than half of Australia’s landmass, placing them at the forefront of emissions reduction and biodiversity protection.”
The conference will feature a keynote address by Fiona Simson, World Farmers’ Organisation vice-president, who will discuss sustainable land management practices and the challenges posed by climate change. Prominent figures, including Agriculture Minister Julie Collins and Environment Minister Murray Watt, are also set to participate, indicating the high-level commitment to addressing these issues.
Recognition of grassroots efforts will take place at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, where community champions will be honored for their contributions to restoring the natural environment. Notable finalists for the prestigious Bob Hawke Landcare Award include fourth-generation farmer Garry Kadwell and sustainable farming pioneer Stuart McAlpine, showcasing the ongoing dedication to landcare.
The conference is not just an event; it represents a movement. Since its foundation in 1989, Landcare has mobilized over 140,000 volunteers across more than 6,000 community-led environmental groups, working tirelessly to restore and protect Australia’s precious ecosystems.
In a related event, a First Nations gathering and a summit for next-generation landcarers occurred on Sunday, promoting inclusivity and future-oriented perspectives in conservation efforts. The conference will segue into the National Farmers’ Federation’s AgXchange, where policymakers and agribusiness leaders will further discuss sustainable practices and the future of agriculture.
As this crucial conference unfolds, stay tuned for more updates on the developments impacting Australia’s environment and agricultural landscape. The commitment of farmers and landcare volunteers is critical now more than ever, as they unite to face the ecological crisis head-on.
