Organisational background

In the 1980s, when environmentalists and farmers were in conflict, the Victorian Government and the Victorian Farmers Federation brought the warring groups together via a community-based organisation called Landcare Victoria. Cut to 2024, the organisation now has 600 groups and 60,000 volunteers who are working to restore and protect habitat.

With funding cuts impacting Landcare’s ability to operate effectively, Rendere decided to engage with stakeholders around Australia to get a clearer picture of what could be done. It was clear from these discussions that the funding cuts had led to a chicken-and-egg situation; Landcare needed a stronger voice but couldn’t employ a CEO due to budgetary constraints. But because it lacked a CEO it wasn’t able to secure funding in the first place.

With the Upotipotpon Foundation, Rendere agreed to underwrite the CEO position for three years (from June 2020). Claire Hetzel is currently in that role.

Rendere also sought funding for other Landcare initiatives through the Australian Environmental Grantmakers Network (AEGN) – funding that has boosted Landcare’s capacity in administration, member development and fundraising.

Impact

With the new team in place, Landcare Victoria was able to secure funding for 80 facilitators during the 2021-24 funding period. This increased capacity has also given other funders, including the Ross Trust, the confidence to invest.