From little things, big things grow: Heytesbury Landcare Network turns 30
It began with neighbours planting trees, and gradually spread across the region.
Zara Cuthbertson
April 14, 2026
Since 1996, Heytesbury Landcare has planted trees at an average of about 180 a day.
Over 30 years that amounts to about two million trees. Then there are the hundreds of hectares of land that have been restored.
It is a legacy worth marking, but as president David Smurthwaite noted, any celebrations will be tempered by the fact there is much more to do.
🗣️ “So many aspects of the natural world are in crisis or decline and therefore the role of Landcare is going to become critical,” he said.
A lasting legacy: Officially known as the Heytesbury District Landcare Network, the group has worked alongside more than 450 landholders to revegetate public and private land, while delivering programs supporting habitat restoration, waterway protection and sustainable farming.
The network coordinates five local Landcare groups under its umbrella, as well as three Friends groups, which are smaller groups focused on specific local natural landmarks.
Smurthwaite said the organisation had worked on hundreds of local projects including climate resilient farms and the Master Tree Grower project, an eight-day tree planting course for landowners.
He said the network also helped shift how the community thinks about environmental stewardship.
🗣️ “I’m a fan of getting younger people interested … people today better appreciate the environment because of climate change and the impact of droughts and fires.”
Branching out: What began as neighbours working together has grown into a coordinated effort supported by education programs, a community nursery and industry partnerships.
Smurthwaite said the future of the movement was tied to stronger engagement with landholders and a growing focus on sustainability in farming.
What’s next? The network plans to expand its membership and continue projects focused on waterways in the Curdies River catchment.
The network will hold a reunion event on April 28 as part of its annual general meeting, bringing together past and present members to reflect on decades of environmental work across the region.