About us

Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Network is a not-for-profit, volunteer-based charity working to ensure people in Warrnambool and the wider region enjoy and support a sustainable and biodiverse natural environment.

WE WORK TO:

  • Improve biodiversity in Warrnambool and the wider region
  • Inform, advocate and act for the protection of our natural environment.

Our focus is on biodiversity, sustainable agriculture and natural environment protection.

OUR GOALS ARE TO:

  • Foster connections between people and their local environment
  • Increase community awareness of key environmental issues
  • Provide opportunities for people to participate in and learn from community environment projects
  • Work with traditional owners, landholders, community groups, government and non-government agencies towards shared goals
  • Lead and participate in nature revegetation and regenerative environmental work that improves biodiversity
  • Influence policy for positive impacts on our natural environment.

Our origins date from 1995 with the first community-led initiative focusing on the protection of the Merri River. Since then the group has expanded its focus and reach, continued to grow in stature and draw respect from government agencies and the community.

Our activities cover a region of over 5,600 square kilometres encompassed by the Warrnambool and Moyne local government areas in the heart of southwest Victoria. We involve many local volunteers as well as those visiting from across Victoria and, through Deakin University, from around the world.

Our partners include Deakin University, Warrnambool City Council, Moyne Shire Council, Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority, Glenelg Nature Trust, Wannon Water and other groups and agencies.

We are an incorporated association, a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission and have Deductible Gift Recipient status with the Australian Taxation Office.

Our funding comes from a mix of government grants; public, business and philanthropic donations; and community fundraising.

Management of our activities is overseen by an annually elected Committee with expertise in the community, environment, agriculture, education and business sectors, and supported by three employees based in our office located at Deakin University’s Sherwood Park campus.