Hodgson and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Group

The Hodgson’s and Horseshoe Creeks Landcare Group has been proudly supporting landholders across the Tarrawingee and Everton districts since 1989. Formed in response to growing concerns about salinity, the group quickly expanded to tackle weeds, rabbits, erosion, and pasture management—bringing together passionate locals committed to restoring and protecting our landscape.

What We Do

We support landholders with practical advice, funding opportunities, and hands-on assistance to improve land health and productivity. Our projects include:

• Salinity control: Field days, pasture improvement subsidies, and tree planting

• Erosion management: Fencing, rock placement, and revegetation

• Rabbit control: Group 1080 programs, dozer ripping subsidies, fumigation

• Weed eradication: Chemical subsidies and equipment access

• Revegetation: Enhancing stream health, biodiversity, and windbreaks

• Pasture improvement: Field trials and awareness days

• Training: ACUP courses and skill-building workshops

Our Impact

Over the years, our group has achieved remarkable results:

• Weeds: Estimated 80% reduction in major infestations (Blackberries, Paterson’s Curse)

• Rabbits: 90% fewer rabbits than 15 years ago

• Salinity: Salt-affected areas fenced and managed, deep-rooted perennials established

• Revegetation: Visible corridors of native trees and shrubs now enrich the district

• Biodiversity: A noticeable increase in native birdlife

• Crown Land: Improved management of creek frontages and invasive species

• Community Education: Guest speakers, newsletters, and school involvement

Recognition

We’re proud of our members’ contributions and the recognition they’ve received:

• Salinity Award – Ron Briggs (2002)

• John F Hughes Award (1997) – Jointly with Burgoigee Landcare Group for outstanding pest plant and animal control

Our Purpose

We aim to foster a new generation of land managers who balance productivity with environmental care. Our goals include:

• Protecting remnant vegetation

• Planting indigenous species for shelter and habitat

• Reducing recharge and improving water quality

• Stabilising streams and enhancing perennial pastures

We achieve this by:

• Securing funding for district-wide works

• Acting as a united voice for our region

• Leading by example through on-ground projects

• Engaging schools and raising community awareness

• Encouraging participation through direct, proactive outreach

Meetings & Community Hub

We meet around 10 times a year, guided by seasonal needs and project timelines. Our monthly newsletter keeps members informed and connected.

Meetings are held at the Everton Environmental Education Centre, a cherished community facility saved from auction in the late 1990s. The Centre hosts seminars, workshops, and school visits, and features a nearby dryland salinity site used for education and monitoring.

Equipment for Members

To support on-ground action, we offer access to a range of equipment (small maintenance fee applies):

• Spray cart with boom and hand gun

• Carpet weed wiper (for dock, rushes, St John’s wort, thistles)

• Hamilton and Potti Putki tree planters

• Direct drill seeder (with Baker boots)

• 3-point linkage ripper for rabbit warrens

• Trailing carrot bait layer

• Fumigator for rabbit control