MANSFIELD'S Up2Us Landcare Alliance is one of six North East organisations to receive funding to help build local drought resilience.
Overseen by the North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA), the 12-month implementation plan is part of the Ovens Murray Drought Resilience Plan—one of nine regional plans funded by the Regional Drought Resilience Planning program to build social, economic and landscape resilience.
Local groups were invited to submit expressions of interest to deliver activities under the plan, with Up2Us securing nearly $50,000.
The funding will support the Drought-Ready Landholders Initiative, a program designed to help resident and absentee property owners across Mansfield build drought resilience.
It includes practical workshops on property and livestock management during dry periods and recovery, tailored to different landholder needs.
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Larger property owners will attend two specialised workshops, while smaller landholders can access three sessions offered both in person and online.
Recognising challenges faced by women in agriculture, the program also includes quarterly Females in Agriculture Discussion Sessions.
"These gatherings will feature female presenters and create a supportive environment where women can ask questions, share experiences, and forge connections within the agricultural community," said Kim Magnay, Landcare facilitator.
A survey will be distributed to women across the agricultural sector—farming, agribusiness, research, advisory and other roles—to ensure sessions address relevant topics.
"Through this programme, the Up2Us Landcare Network aims to strengthen the agricultural community's capacity to navigate challenging seasonal conditions whilst fostering stronger connections between landholders across the region," Kim said.
North East CMA CEO Katie Warner said 20 applications worth over $1 million were received.
“With the current dry conditions, the impacts of drought on our mental health, natural environment, farming systems and local businesses is evident and underlines the importance of working together,” Katie said.
