Case study: Gundagai Where Bushcare Begins Again

A rural Bushcare group reconnecting people, restoring local bushland and rebuilding Landcare participation in Gundagai.

The issue

Gundagai has a strong history of Bushcare, but like many rural towns, the local group had become inactive over time. However, many people living in town still have a desire to help care for the environment but do not have access to land of their own to plant or manage restoration. This has created a gap between community interest and practical opportunities to act. Rebuilding an historic a Bushcare group that met the needs and capacity of a small rural community, focused on maintaining a low stress, low admin and a strong social output, group strategy.

The solution

An initial revival event was held at Yarri Park to bring old members and new faces together, to explore what Gundagai Bushcare could look like in 2026. The group has been re-established under the Riverina Highlands Landcare Network, enabling members to stay connected to a wider Landcare network, whilst while keeping local meetings simple and informal. The approach focuses on practical works, shared learning and community involvement, with support from Landcare coordination, safety systems and membership processes.

The impact

The revival of Gundagai Bushcare has already sparked strong interest and enthusiasm from across the community. It has created a pathway for people in town to be actively involved in Landcare, even if they do not own land, while also reconnecting former volunteers and welcoming new ones. The group has helped build stronger social connections, restoring local bushland and giving people a shared purpose that benefits both the environment and the community.

Learnings

Bushcare works best when it stays local, social and practical. In a small rural town, keeping governance light and focusing on hands-on activity helps build momentum and confidence. Another key learning is that there is real value in providing town-based people with a way to contribute to environmental restoration, especially where access to land is limited. The strongest results come when environmental work is paired with community connection.