Emerging Weeds - Recognising threats, taking action

What happens when a new weed appears, and how can we act before it becomes a major problem?

Emerging weeds can spread rapidly, threatening biodiversity, agriculture and natural landscapes. But early detection, community involvement and coordinated action can make a real difference in preventing new infestations from becoming established.

Join Landcare Victoria for an engaging webinar exploring the importance of recognising emerging weed threats and taking action before they become widespread.

Through two inspiring case studies, we will explore the power of community-led action:

• Taking action against inkweed on a small island: Discover how a local community has mobilised to tackle the rapid spread of inkweed (Phytolacca octandra), bringing together volunteers, landholders and funding opportunities to coordinate control efforts and prevent further spread.

• From local concern to national recognition: Hear how the determination of a Landcare volunteer in East Gippsland helped elevate sea spurge (Euphorbia paralias) from a local environmental concern to a nationally recognised weed priority, demonstrating the influence grassroots communities can have on national weed management.

We will also be joined by Hillary Cherry from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, who will take us through the National Established Weed Priorities (NEWP) process, exploring how emerging weed threats can gain national recognition and how this can create opportunities for greater collaboration, investment and coordinated action.

Whether you're a Landcare volunteer, landholder, environmental professional or simply interested in protecting our landscapes, this webinar will offer practical insights and inspiring examples of how local action can drive broader change.

Join us to learn how we can recognise emerging weed threats early and work together to make a difference.

Meet some of our speakers:

• Renae Gale : Landcare Crew Coordinator - King Island Landcare

• Beth Ripper OAM: Former Landcare Vic Board Member, current Members Councillor

• Hillary Cherry: Senior Weeds Coordinator, Weed Management Team, Planning and Preparedness Unit for NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

"This event is supported by the Victorian Government through the Partnerships Against Pest, Round 3, Stream 2 Program."