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Natural Resources Northern and Yorke

6 June 2014

 
Volunteers eNews
 

In this issue

Volunteers thanked for helping protect our natural environment
Bob Hawke Landcare Award - Nominations are now open
Plain speaking guide to safety
Head along to Gleeson Wetland for National Tree Day
Register your site for Bushcare's Major Day Out - 7th Sept
Landcare Grants now open
Volunteers awarded at Rotary presentation dinner
2014 South Australian Community Achievement Awards - Nominations are now open
Chainsaw Use & Maintenance Course - 2 spots left
Friends of Parks Awards are now open
Volunteering Opportunities
Quote of the Month

Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.

-- Elizabeth Andrew

 
 
Volunteers thanked for helping protect our natural environment

More than 60 volunteers representing Landcare, Friends of Parks, Tidy Towns, Progress Associations and the Biodiversity and Endangered Species Team came together from across the Northern and Yorke region to mark National Volunteer Week 12-18 May 2014.

The volunteers were treated to a celebratory lunch hosted by the Northern and Yorke Natural Resources Management Board which included presentations from special guest speakers Dr Peggy Rismiller and Dr Lynley Johnson of Zoos SA.

Peggy shared insights into her experiences of working with volunteers on a range of conservation initiatives across Kangaroo Island - Goanna Watch and restoration of unused farmland. Peggy emphasised the importance of allowing volunteers to have fun and learn new things in all activities. 

Lynley shared insights into global voluntary experiences which have facilitated her career in veterinary conservation, including role as head vet for the Giant Pandas at Adelaide Zoo.

Mrs Judith Sommerville, Secretary of the Yacka-moorundie Landcare Group attended the lunch and said it was a great chance to network with like-minded volunteers and enjoy a celebration of volunteer achievement.

“Being a volunteer brings a lot of satisfaction and joining a group is a good way to get involved in your local community and have fun along the way,” she said.

“The support we receive from the Lower North Natural Resources Management Group and the Northern and Yorke Natural Resources Management Board has allowed us to progress the profile of our group over the years. I would encourage other voluntary groups in the region to make the most of the assistance available and we are always happy to hear from new community members looking to get involved with our group.

   
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Bob Hawke Landcare Award - Nominations are now open

The Bob Hawke Landcare Award acknowledges an individual who has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to caring for the land; champions better practices; and gives their time to share knowledge with others so that they too can prosper.

The Award recipient will be awarded with a prize package to the value of $50,000 for further development of their knowledge and skills in sustainable land management and Landcare.

To be eligible for the award, nominees must be actively involved in Landcare or sustainable agriculture and be willing to promote the Landcare ethos.

Nominations are now open and close on 4th July 2014. Enter now.

   
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Plain speaking guide to safety

Are you confused by the myriad of acronyms and the jargon used when it comes to Workplace Health Safety?

Often safety can become a bit of an acronym minefield. Let’s have a look at a few you may run into.

Acts and Regulations - It is important that everyone understands that most workplaces in South Australia are covered by the SA Work Health and Safety Act and associated Regulations (2012).

The old term OHS, and the old Occupational Health and Safety Act (1986), have been replaced by “Work Health and Safety” or WHS and the new Work Health and Safety Act. So in effect if you see WHS – think OHS.

The new term of 'worker' is used in the Act to recognise that working relationships aren’t just about employee and employer, occupational safety applies equally to anyone who works in whatever capacity be it employee, labour hire person, volunteer or contractor.

Codes of Practice (CoP) – you will see occasional references to a Code of Practice; “First Aid in the Workplace” is a good example. A Code of Practice provides practical information and guidance on how to meet the requirements of the Act and Regulations.

How does DEWNR ensure that it meets any legislated requirements?

Through the implementation of policies and procedures that set out how we manage safety.

Safety Policy – these are big ticket items if you like that set out in very strategic terms what needs to occur and the key safety commitments and responsibilities for both senior and line Managers and workers.

Safety Procedures – This is really the crux or key safety document for the organisation. They tell you what you need to do, how and when, and will often provide you with a flow chart and template documents.

Risk Assessments – There are a range of risk assessments (RA) used in DEWNR. The key ones being for Plant
(machinery, equipment and firearms), hazardous substances, and lastly a specialized one for hazardous tasks – a job safety analysis or JSA.

The primary purpose of a RA is to ensure that there is a close examination of any job or work process, chemical or item of plant and prior to use that as best as is possible all the foreseeable safety hazards and risks that might arise are identified along with how best to manage them.

It is also worth mentioning that for any hazardous chemical used in DEWNR workers must have ready access to a Safety Data Sheet (these were called MSDS but this is now shorten to SDS) which sets out the known dangers and how the chemical can be used safely. An SDS has a range of information including safe storage and use, the wearing and use of correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and also information about what to do in an emergency including if spillage occurs.

Safe Work Practices (SWP) – there are a range of SWPs used in DEWNR. Their key purpose is to clearly set out the work process to be followed to perform a task or use equipment safely. Safe Work Instructions (SWI) are very similar in purpose to SWPs.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) – SOPs are no longer used in DEWNR.

If you require any clarification or further information on Safety visit our website or contact your local liaison Ranger or the Volunteer Support Officer.

   
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Head along to Gleeson Wetland for National Tree Day

The Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council have received funding through the Northern andYorke NRM Board to undertake restoration works along a section of the Hutt River and the Gleeson wetlands in the Clare township.

We are looking for volunteers to help with planting of native vegetation and removal of weeds.

Join us on Friday July 25 and Sunday July 27, coinciding
with National Tree Day.

We will be planting from 9 am -1 pm with a free barbeque lunch provided at 1pm for all those involved.

WITH YOUR HELP WE CAN ACHIEVE MORE!

To register your attendance or to find out more information on the project, please contact Leah Feuerherdt on 0427 333 013 or email leah.feuerherdt@sa.gov.au

   
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Register your site for Bushcare's Major Day Out - 7th Sept

Bushcare’s Major Day Out is a national day designed to encourage us all to take part in the restoration and maintenance of our remaining bushland.

In 2014 Bushcare’s Major Day Out will be held on Sunday September 7th in Landcare Week, and will be part of Landcare Australia’s 25th anniversary celebrations, at city and country locations across Australia. However, the day for Bushcare’s Major Day Out is flexible, so individual sites may choose slightly different dates.

Bushcare’s Major Day Out is a day specifically designed to give of us the opportunity to find out what is being done and what can be done in our own neighbourhood. It’s a fun day where anyone, young and old can work alongside and learn from experts and experienced volunteers. There are a range of activities depending on the location; walks, planting, weed removal, photography workshops as well as native plant identification and well celebrated morning teas.

Land Managers, it is easy to register your site and registrations for Bushcare’s Major Day Out are now open!

Register early to have a chance of winning one of ten spending vouchers valued at $50 for your event.

   
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Landcare Grants now open

Landcare Week Grow Grants 2014

To celebrate Landcare Australia and 25 years of working with the Landcare community, 25 grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded to successful recipients to celebrate and support local Landcare week events that aim to increase the number of volunteers involved in local Landcare communities across Australia. Find out more and apply.

Planting the Future Grants

We have been working with the Landcare community for the last 25 years, building a generation of Landcarers. To celebrate this milestone and to help facilitate the next generation of Landcarers, 25 grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded to successful recipients who can implement Junior Landcare projects that demonstrate Landcare’s commitment to protecting, restoring and sustainably managing Australia’s natural environment and its productivity. Find out more and apply.

Jemena Junior Landcare Grants

The Jemena Junior Landcare Grants encourage primary school communities within Jemena’s areas of operation to undertake projects that will increase environmental sustainability at their school or in their communities. 20 x $1,500 grants are available to realise the project. Schools may also be invited to present their project at some stage at a Jemena sponsored school event. Find out more and apply.

Turf Australia Perfect Pitch of Green Program 2014

After two years of running the “Perfect Patch of Green” program we are pleased to support the Perfect Pitch of Green program in 2014. Turf Australia and Junior Landcare continue their commitment to making a positive difference to children’s play environments and will be providing 10 schools and youth groups (including sporting clubs that involve young people) the opportunity to have a professional turf grower provide natural turf as grass coverage for kids and students to experience and enjoy. Find out more and apply.

 

   
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Volunteers awarded at Rotary presentation dinner

An enjoyable dinner and presentation was hosted by the Rotary Club of Burnside Inc, for the 2014 Leadership in Conservation, and Volunteer of the Park awards.

Bob Cooper, Past President, who has assisted DEWNR for many years in organising the awards, opened the proceedings and welcomed everyone. Rotarian, Dave Harrison gave the invocation and Loyal Toast. 

Bob gave a history or the awards, which started in 1984 (now in its 30th year), with the Volunteers of the Park award commencing a few years later in 1988.

Grant Pelton, Director, Regional Coordination, addressed the gathering, and he and Wendy Gaborit (District Governor 9520) assisted in the presentation of the awards.

Awards were presented to:

Volunteer of the Parks Award

- Andy McKinnon, Friends of Onkaparinga Park

Finalist:  Phil Gillett, Friends of Para Wirra Recreation Park

Leadership in Conservation Award

- Steve Taylor, Senior Ranger Northern Hills, Coast and Plains

Commendation:  Glenn Jackway, Senior Ranger – Southend, Lower South East District

Finalist:  Coral Marsden, Ranger-West,  Fleurieu and Willunga Basin

The Hon Vickie Chapman, MP, State Member for Bragg, gave a Vote of Thanks.

   
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2014 South Australian Community Achievement Awards - Nominations are now open

The 2014 Community Achievement Awards have been launched.

Nominate for the Awards, and/or nominate a member, volunteer, project, initiative, group, organisation or individual you know making a real environmental difference.

The Awards highlight valuable community contribution.

Nominations are being sought in these categories:

  • Haigh’s Chocolates Volunteering Award
  • Prime Super Community Group of the Year Award
  • Rural Doctors Workforce Agency Rural Community Health and Wellbeing Award

Nominations close on Wednesday 30th July 2014 and winners will receive a $2,000 Everyday Account from the Commonwealth Bank.

Finalists will be presented and winners announced at a Gala Awards Presentation Dinner on Friday 31st October at the Hilton Adelaide.

   
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Chainsaw Use & Maintenance Course - 2 spots left

All volunteers working on DEWNR/Board projects must be certified before using a chainsaw.

DEWNR are funding a Chainsaw Use & Maintenance Course at the Clare TAFE on Sat 12th to Sun 13th July.

You will be required to:

  • Attend both days at the Clare TAFE (main north road, Clare) to receive full accreditation
  • Wear full PPE
  • Register with TAFE SA (forms will be provided)
  • Provide your own lunch, refreshments & accommodation
  • Course cost will be covered by DEWNR

There are only 2 spots left, so register your interest asap to DEWNRNorthernandYorkeVolunteers@sa.gov.au.

   
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Friends of Parks Awards are now open

Friends of Parks President, David Mitchell, says “The awards program is important in recognising the significant contribution our members make to their communities and the environment as a whole. Not only do these awards draw attention to the award recipients, they draw attention to the effort made by all Friends of Parks volunteers without whom our natural and cultural heritage would be the poorer”.

Awards will be presented in the following categories:

  • Best Biodiversity Project recognises a Friends of Parks group that has made a significant contribution to biodiversity conservation and the natural environment.
  • Friends Group Achievement of the Year recognises a Friends of Parks group that has excelled in a project or other activity that has significantly contributed to the conservation of our natural and built environment and heritage.
  • Most Supportive Liaison Ranger / Volunteer Support Ranger / Staff Member recognises an individual that has provided exceptional support to their local friends group/s.

The awards are sponsored by the Nature Foundation of South Australia and recipients in each category will receive a cheque for $700 and a certificate.

Nominations close on Thursday 31st July

For more information, please contact David Mitchell, President, FoP Inc on 8251 1088 or at dm_mitchell@bigpond.com

www.communitywebs.org/FriendsofParks

   
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Volunteering Opportunities

June

12th: Trees for Life Threatened Flora Project (Yakkalo)

  • Protecting Lacnagrostis limitanea
  • Weed control
  • Contact - Erica Rees 0408 812 677

13th - 15th: Tarcowie Landcare Group Planting Weekend (Tarcowie)

  • Tree planting
  • Contact - Kieran Brewer 0427 902 326

14th: Friends of Spring Gully CP Working Bee (Sevenhill)

17th: Friends of Innes National Park Working Bee (Innes NP)

19th: Friends of Telowie Gorge CP

  • Contact - Frank Gordon 0447 764 064

24th - 27th: Trees for Life Threatened Flora Project (Halbury Parklands & Neagles Rock)

  • Protecting Pterostylis lepida & Euphrasia collina
  • Weed control
  • Contact - Erica Rees 0408 812 677

28th: Friends of Burra Parks Working Bee (Hopkins Creek CP)

28th: Friends of Spring Gully Working Bee (Sevenhill)

July

4th - 9th: Friends of Burra Parks Working Bee (Bimbowrie CP)

12th & 26th: Friends of Spring Gully Working Bee (Sevenhill)

15th: Friends of Innes NP (Inneston)

17th: Friends of Telowie Gorge CP

  • Contact - Frank Gordon 0447 764 064

22nd: Trees for Life Threatened Flora Project (Sevenhill Cellars)

  • 10 am - 12.30 pm with BBQ lunch
  • Contact - Erica Rees 0408 812 677

25th & 27th: Gleeson Wetland Restoration (Clare)

27th: Upper Wakefield NRM Group (Clare Valley)

 

   
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Dates for your Diary

June

  • 8th: World Oceans Day
  • 9th: Volunteers Day (SA)
  • 9th: Volunteers Day Concert (Adelaide Festival Theatre)
  • 27th: Red Nose Day

July

  • 4th: School 2nd Term Ends
  • 6th - 13th: NAIDOC Week
  • 21st: School 3rd Term Starts
  • 22nd: Hart Winer Walk (Hart Field Site)
  • 25th: Schools Tree Day
  • 27th: National Tree Day
  • 31st: World Ranger Day

 

 
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Natural Resources Northern and Yorke Government of South Australia
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