Leschenault Catchment Council (LCC) is delighted to have secured two new State NRM Community Stewardship Grants, providing almost $80,000 to support the health of the Collie River and strengthen community-led landcare across the Upper Collie Catchment.

The two grants will build on LCC’s successful restoration work along the Collie River while helping the community better understand the catchment and shape priorities for future environmental action.

The $49,586 Reviving our River: Continuing Collie River Restoration project will continue practical restoration of the Collie River, with a focus on improving habitat for native wildlife both along the river and within important summer refuge pools.  Works will enhance riverine habitat for threatened species including Western Ringtail Possums and black cockatoos, while restoration of key refuge pools will benefit native fish and crustaceans.

The project will also put the community at the heart of understanding river health, with a community-based snapshot water quality monitoring program, along with education and engagement activities designed to build knowledge, partnerships and long-term stewardship of the Collie River.

This project is generously supported by a significant financial contribution from Neone Australia and Premier Coal.

The $29,395 Understanding Landcare Needs in the Upper Collie Catchment project takes a bigger-picture approach, working with the community to identify the natural assets, environmental challenges and landcare priorities that matter most across the Upper Collie.

LCC will combine mapping and spatial data with First Nations and local knowledge, supported by community workshops, focus groups and stakeholder engagement. The result will be a clearer picture of where restoration and protection efforts are most needed—and where landholders and the community need support.

“We’re really pleased to receive this support through the State NRM Community Stewardship Grants Program,” said LCC Executive Officer Caroline Hughes. “These projects recognise that looking after the Collie River isn’t just about doing restoration on the ground—it’s also about building the knowledge, skills and community connections needed to care for the river into the future.”

LCC looks forward to working with the Collie community, Traditional Owners, landholders, government and other partners to continue the journey towards a healthier, more resilient Collie River and catchment.