Conference reverses brain drain

Of course, the Aussies could claim that they did it first: Landcare in Australia began in Brisbane in 1986, and there are now over 4000 Landcare and 2000 Coastcare groups across the country. They even have Australian Landcare International.

Formed in 2008, it now operates in 16 countries, "working with communities on individual problems, supporting the introduction of a Landcare approach within local communities, and connecting Australian groups with new projects in other countries," says ACI chief, Rob Youl.

But we must be getting it right here, even though we got started 10 years later, because the conference visitors were mighty interested in our successful projects and by the close asking how we could learn from each other.

Rob McGowan, Nga Whenua Rahui, says they even wanted ideas and training on working harmoniously with indigenous people, because they think we do it better.

The New Zealand Trust is based in Hamilton and facilitates work to protect natural landscapes, clean waterways, cope with predators, and help indigenous fauna and flora thrive, by getting communities and local landowners, government organisations and funding agencies to work together.

The Trust's board incorporates senior members from many organisations with an interest in land management.