Central Tablelands Regional 2024 Muster
The Central Tablelands Regional Landcare Network’s annual Muster serves as a vital opportunity for Landcare volunteers and staff to gather, collaborate, and plan for the year ahead. The challenge identified was the need to unite efforts and align with regional priorities amid significant regional changes. Recent years have brought complex challenges such as drought, bushfires, floods, COVID-19, and the introduction of a new Landcare Program. These events highlighted the necessity for coordinated support, strategic planning, and collective action to ensure that Landcare volunteers, landholders, and communities remain resilient and well-supported. Additionally, there was a pressing need to prepare for upcoming funding opportunities and ensure that the region is project-ready to proactively align with funding body requirements.
To address these challenges, a two-day planning workshop was organised at Reflections Wyangala Waters - Holiday Park. The workshop was facilitated by Kim Boswell from The Forever Agenda and Peter Pigott, the State Community of Practice Manager with Landcare NSW. This gathering provided a structured environment for collaboration, enabling participants to develop comprehensive strategies for future funding opportunities at the regional level.
The two-day Muster successfully brought together 18 members of the Central Tablelands Regional Landcare Network and two staff from Local Land Services. This gathering strengthened the sense of community and cooperation among attendees, leading to enhanced strategic alignment and shared commitment. Participants developed clear, practical strategies for upcoming funding opportunities and identified collaborative regional projects. The workshop fostered trust, open communication, and collective decision-making, which are essential for future resilience. The exchange of experiences and pooling of knowledge helped participants feel more prepared and confident in addressing both current challenges and future uncertainties.
The workshop highlighted the importance of structured, yet flexible, approaches to planning. What worked well was the open-space sessions that encouraged genuine dialogue and idea-sharing, creating an environment where attendees could express needs and aspirations freely. However, challenges such as time constraints and balancing diverse priorities among networks were noted. The event underscored the need for ongoing communication, regular check-ins, and a clear roadmap for translating plans into actionable steps. Building capacity for project readiness and being adaptable to changing conditions were key takeaways that will inform future gatherings and initiatives.
Key facts
18 members of the Central Tablelands Regional Landcare Network attended, along with two Local Land Services staff.
Developed six regional initiatives for future funding opportunities
Enhanced collaboration across networks to achieve shared outcomes.
Engaged in four facilitated team-building and collaborative decision-making exercises.
Created a roadmap for clarifying roles and responsibilities between Regional and Local Coordinators.
