National Serrated Tussock Project

This project aims to develop, manage and implement serrated tussock management projects in partnership with landholders, Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs), and State and local government agencies. This will be done through assisting local control authorities (LCAs) to develop regional project funding proposals, developing partnerships with CMA's and other NRM groups and providing relevant extension material to these groups.

A serrated tussock list server has been established to provide subscribers information regarding funding opportunities as well as research updates, best management practices and case studies. To subscribe to the service send an email to: tussock.management@dpi.nsw.gov.au with a request to subscribe to the serrated tussock list server.

For more contact Bronwen Wicks, Serrated Tussock National Coordinator, bronwen.wicks@industry.nsw.gov.au.

Weed Warriors

Weed Warriors is an innovative national education program that aims to increase community awareness and involvement in local weed issues.

The program recognises children as the land managers of the future and seeks to empower and engage them in weed issues through an on-going program of classroom and field-based activities.

During the program, students work closely wit local weed officers land mangers and community groups to plan, implement and evaluate a biological control program for a regional priority weed.  The students with guidance from local weed experts are given the task of breeding the biological control agents in their classroom before releasing the classroom reared agents at a local infestation.  This enables students to play an active role in bringing a solution to a weed problem in their local community.

Weed Warriors provides a high level of support and resources to assist weed professionals and schools implement the program.

For more information visit www.weedwarriors.net.au or contact Alyssa Schembri, NSW Weed Warriors Coordinator on (02) 6391 3850 or email alyssa.schembri@industry.nsw.gov.au

What does your garden grow?

What does your garden grow? is a VET sector teaching resource developed by the CRC for Australian Weed Management.  The course provides an overview of the importance of weeds in gardens and their impact on our unique Australian environment.  These materials were written to assist the general community improve their understanding of weed issues and what they can do within their garden to assist in reducing the impact of weeds in Australia. The courses can be delivered by councils, CMA's, Bushcare or Landcare groups, community colleges and other adult education providers.

The resources cover introductory information on where weeds are a problem, how weeds spread and the theory and practice behind control measures.  One of the key sections relates to planting less weedy plants in our gardens as an alternative to those with weedy characteristics.

The resource is available on CD-ROM or as a hard copy and 'train the trainer' courses are available.

For more information see the information brochure or contact Annette Beer, Education Officer (Wagga Wagga) on (02) 6938 1671 or email annette.beer@industry.nsw.gov.au.