The AGM for the HCCC Landcare network was held on Saturday January 18th at the Ruffy TLCC. A creditable turnout of 22 members attended and it was decided that as the weather was so nice, that the meeting was to be held outside under the shady trees.
So, along with a serenade from a nearby Rufous Whistler, the president, Justus Hagen, delivered his annual report (attached). Highlights for the year included, our 40 year anniversary celebrations, the commencement of the Landcare Futures G2G project, Soil health, the Hazara community engagement day at Euroa Arboretum and thanks to committee members, facilitators and the community for their ongoing support.
Janet Hagen, Neil van Buuren and Vanessa Malandrin delivered their reports, highlighting increased focus and success in weed management throughout the year, greater community and council awareness and involvement in weed management, the G2G Landcare Futures project and HCCC’s increased positive profile as a result, Soil Health event day at Seymour Racecourse among others. (reports attached).
The G2G project was the major event of the year, and puts us in a position to move on with several projects once funding is received. We now have our Landcare Plan and a new journey has just begun.
Focus areas:
· Improving Hughes creek connectivity and condition in partnership with Taungurung.
· Greater Glider Glideways (endangered species) biolinks alliance.
· Promoting a holistic approach to restoring landscape hydrology.
· Supply shed for reduced carbon emissions in beef.
· Restoring the giant sponge. Protecting creeks, bogs, dams and wetlands.
· Environmental planting for shade and shelter for stock.
· Grazing management to improve soil health.
Vanessa’s contract with HCCC is now completed, and she was thanked by Justus for all of her work and provided with a small gift.
Pauline Roberts provided the TGN editor’s report, highlighting the amazing readership of 721 subscribers. Thanking the back page sponsors for their ongoing support and interested community members for sending in letters, articles and social event information.
Neville Ford (Treasurer) provided the financial reports for the current period and also a year-on-year comparison, showing our continued excellent financial health. Some bank account changes were discussed and new signatories to be updated.
The election of office bearers saw the incumbent members being returned for another year with unanimous support.
President: Justus Hagen,
Vice President: Fearghus Wallis,
Secretary: Sue van Buuren.
Following the formalities, an enjoyable lunch of bbq meats was prepared by Neil and Sue van Buuren, and ably helped at the hotplate by Michael Kaponica. Other members supplied salads and yummy desserts for all to share. Beer was provided courtesy of Moondog Craft brewery. The location was perfect, the food and drinks were enjoyed by all, and the conversation was lively and convivial. A very successful AGM and testament to the HCCC’s continued community engagement and presence.
Comments