Over the past two decades, with the invaluable support of the Queensland and Federal Governments and our incredible member base, QWaLC has proudly grown into the state’s peak body for community-based environmental volunteer groups.

This anniversary is not just a celebration of our journey, but a tribute to the many individuals—past Chairs, Directors, and thousands of dedicated members—who have shaped QWaLC’s success. It is also a moment to honour the enduring partnerships, local connections, and the vibrant community spirit that continue to thrive across our regions.

Our member groups are diverse and dedicated, spanning Landcare, Catchment Management, Coastcare, Wildlife Carers, Community Gardens, First Nations associations, and many more. This celebration is an opportunity to recognise their ongoing care for land, water, wildlife, and community—and to honour the deep knowledge and wisdom they continue to share with all who walk this path of stewardship.

On Saturday, 30 August 2025, Queensland Water and Land Carers (QWaLC) celebrated its 21st anniversary, a landmark event for the peak body supporting community-based environmental volunteer groups statewide. Festivities took place simultaneously across Brisbane, Innisfail/Cairns, Yeppoon, Toowoomba, and online, drawing over 120 guests—past and present Directors, CEOs, member group volunteers, and representatives from Landcare Australia, the National Landcare Network, and regional natural resource management (NRM) bodies.

A Journey of Growth and Community Spirit

Since its inception in 2003–2004, under a Ministerial Directive from Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, the Hon. Stephen Robertson, QWaLC has thrived through the support of government and its diverse member base. Today, QWaLC stands as Queensland’s leading organisation for environmental volunteers, representing groups from Landcare, Catchment Management, Coastcare, Wildlife Carers, Community Gardens, and First Nations associations.

Recognising the People Behind the Progress

The anniversary ceremony reflected on the dedication of past Chairs, Directors, thousands of volunteers, and enduring partnerships that have shaped QWaLC’s story. MC Stephen Robertson, Chair of Healthy Land and Water, acknowledged the organisation’s roots and the continued importance of local wisdom.

A heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country was delivered by Board member Trevor Meldrum and Kuku Yalangi community member, setting the tone for the celebration.

Messages from Dignitaries

The event featured special video messages from Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, and her husband Professor Graeme Nimmo RFD, joint Patrons of QWaLC. Further encouragement came from Hon Dale Last MP, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Minister for Manufacturing, and Minister for Regional and Rural Development.

Landcare Connections and Collaborations

Karen Walsh of Landcare Australia highlighted the longstanding partnership between Landcare and QWaLC, forged through decades of collaborative projects and the State Landcare Awards.

Steve Bunnell, Chairperson of the National Landcare Network, traced QWaLC’s foundational role in establishing the Network and its ongoing involvement in national initiatives.

Regional Highlights: Cairns, Yeppoon, Toowoomba, and Brisbane

• Cairns: John Brisbin, Regional Director for Southern & Northern Gulf, led a session addressing the urgent challenges of invasive species—Grader Grass, feral pigs, and Pond Apple—and celebrated the deep ecological knowledge of First Nations communities. Professor Allan Dale and local leader Fiona Barron, Chair of the Mitchell River Watershed Management Group, shared stories of innovation and commitment in the NRM sector.
• Yeppoon: Lynette Keen, QWaLC Director for Fitzroy, welcomed attendees alongside former Director Shelly McArdle, who reflected on six years of service. The Capricorn Coast Landcare Group showcased their community-driven efforts, true to their motto of thinking globally and acting locally.
• Toowoomba: Attendees from the Murray Darling, South West, and Condamine regions gathered under the guidance of Director Craig Magnussen. Kimberly Swords, Chair of Southern Queensland Landscapes and University of Queensland Industry Professor, discussed the importance of partnerships. Glenys Bowtell, inaugural Director for Condamine, and Graham Cooke, President of North East Downs Landcare Group, highlighted the region’s 21-year relationship with QWaLC.
• Brisbane: Brian Venz, former South East Queensland Director, recounted decades of volunteer work and collaboration. Lenore Bracey, President of Wolston and Centenary Catchments Inc (WaCC), shared insights into the group’s bushland regeneration and community initiatives.

Leadership and Legacy

QWaLC CEO Darryl marked eleven years of service, focusing on inspiring meaningful community participation and promoting sustainable outcomes.

Vice Chair Michael Bond closed the celebrations, highlighting the organisation’s Indigenous artwork—created in 2023 by artist Leah Cummins, a proud Mayi woman, in collaboration with former Director Shelly McArdle. The artwork, “Caring for Earth,” represents the connection between land, water, and living things.

Honouring Landcare Legends

Karen Walsh from Landcare Australia inducted Mary-Lou Gittins OAM into the Landcarers Legends Honor Roll. Mary-Lou, instrumental in QWaLC’s founding and the current Chair, was recognised for her leadership and dedication.

Celebrating with Community

The anniversary closed with the ceremonial cutting of a cake, reflecting the spirit of celebration, gratitude, and the ongoing journey of Queensland’s environmental volunteers.