Andrew Stewart
Victorian farmer Andrew Stewart has been named winner of the prestigious Bob Hawke Landcare Award for his environmental work and sustainable agricultural achievements on his 230-hectare grazing and agroforestry property at Corangamite near Colac. Source: Timberbiz
The award, which comes with a $50,000 prize, was presented on Thursday night by Agriculture Minister David Littleproud as part of the Landcare national conference, held online this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mr Stewart’s Yan Yan Gurt West Farm in southern Victoria is a remarkable example of how to successfully combine regenerative grazing and agroforestry. Plantings of 50,000 trees and shrubs have increased woody vegetation across the farm from 3% to 18%, without impacting agricultural production.
“It’s exciting to see a farm forester win such a coveted award and garner this sort of recognition for their work with trees on their property, which works in conjunction with a prime lamb business,” Australian Forest Products Association CEO Ross Hampton said today.
“Aside from the harvest providing additional farm income, Andrew has recognised the other benefits of farm forestry in terms of protection for stock, reducing soil salinity and improving land quality,” Mr Hampton said.
“As he increases trees on the property, Andrew is able to offset greenhouse gases from sheep production which allows his property become carbon neutral.
“The fact Landcare has named a farm forester for this award is particularly exciting because it promotes the broad benefits of farm forestry practices which creates timber that is very much in demand right now, and demand will only increase in the future.
“Farm businesses nationally, but particularly in strategic forestry hub regions should seriously consider following Andrew Stewart in making trees a part of their business. The benefits are exponential.”
Mr Littleproud said Mr Stewart’s commitment to delivering the Yan Yan Gurt Creek Catchment community revegetation program, which has restored nearly 18km of creek frontage and formed a wildlife corridor to connect several farms across the district, has been impressive.
“It is this combination of on-ground results and ability to bring the community together that truly demonstrates the Landcare ethos and makes Mr Stewart a worthy winner of this important award,” he said.
“It is also important to recognise our finalists – Mr Justin Kirby and Mr James Walker – who are both delivering outstanding contributions to farming and their respective communities. All of our finalists showcase the true depth, dedication, and knowledge of the Landcare movement.
“These are the people who are defining the future of effective natural resource management across Australia’s natural environment, our farms and our communities. Their achievements are something that every Australian should be proud of.”
Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley congratulated all Award winners and nominees, and said the awards highlighted the important role that Landcare plays in protecting our environment and biodiversity.
“Landcare is at the front line of caring for our environment in a very hands-on way,” Minister Ley said.
“It is playing a key role in our $200 million bushfire response for native species and habitat.
“As someone whose involvement with my local Landcare group stretches back over 20 years, I have seen the inspiration that comes from recognising the achievements of those who are nominated for Awards.”
NSW Nationals Senator Perin Davey said farmers like Mr Stewart are not only leading the way when it comes to agroforestry but also play such an important role in educating thousands of people about sustainable land management practises.
“The National Landcare Awards are a great platform to acknowledge and reward individuals and communities across regional and urban Australia who play a pivotal role in sustainable agricultural practises and conservation,” Mr Davey said.
