Pasture Field Day sparks leafy conversations
At the end of January, around 20 people attended a Pasture and Weeds Field Day in Cunnamulla. Hosted by SQ Landscapes as part of the Queensland Government's GrazingFutures initiative, the event featured three presenters who shared insights into Pimelea, weeds and spreader banks.
Supporting local landholders to make the most of rain and their pasture during drought, the Field Day focused on sharing various techniques. For example, ways to combat and manage erosion, improving pasture through grazing management, optimising rainfall and drought management through utilising spreader banks.
Murray Wingett and Erin Platz from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) shared a wealth of information about Pimelea and weeds. Discussions highlighted current Pimelea research and ongoing trials, signs of cattle poisoning, how to access free disease diagnostic services, signs and symptoms of three-day sickness and weeds of the Paroo Shire. The session was packed with practical information and tips.
Afterwards, SQ Landscapes Project Officer, Glenn Landsberg hosted the group at Harriman Park. Using the property as an example, Glenn explained how spreader banks work, their effect on pasture and how to build them. It was an excellent opportunity for landholders to gain practical and first-hand insights, and the session sparked ongoing conversations with the group.
For more information about Pimelea, click here
to visit the DAF web page or get in touch with the SQ Landscapes team or local Council for more information about weeds in your area.
This project is supported by GrazingFutures, an initiative of the Queensland Government to improve drought preparedness and resilience for Queensland producers.
The Board of Southern Queensland Landscapes is pleased to announce Kimberley Swords has been appointed as Chair of the Board of Directors. Kimberley began her working life as a large animal country vet, after student practical experience across Southern Queensland in Goondiwindi and Injune. Kimberley’s strong interest in natural resource management and regional communities has led her to contribute across a wide variety of industries including the public sector, where she rose to the role of Deputy Secretary in the Australian Government and led environmental approvals, heritage and marine. Her extensive leadership experience incorporates many board roles, including as a current serving member of the CS Energy board. “Following an extensive recruitment phase, where the Southern Queensland Landscapes Board were gratified to receive several high-quality applications, we are delighted to announce the subsequent overwhelming member endorsement of Kimberley as Board Chair. The appointment of a new Chair in any organisation represents an opportunity for refreshment and renewal and the Southern Queensland Landscapes Directors and staff are looking forward to working with Kimberley to deliver our Strategic Plan” said acting Southern Queensland Landscapes Chair, Louise Winten. Kimberly looks forward to engaging with stakeholders across Southern Queensland, with her first full board meeting set down for late June in Charleville. “It is an exciting and challenging time for the region, as we lean into the changing climate, different economic opportunities, and the next generation of regional leaders. I look forward to connecting and collaborating across our communities to better understand how Southern Queensland Landscapes can support sustainable environmental outcomes that materially improve the lives of people living and working in Southern Queensland,” she said. The position of Chair became vacant following the retirement of founding Chair, and long term supporter of regional natural resource management, The Honourable Bruce Scott, AM, at the end of February 2025. Bruce made a significant contribution to Southern Queensland Landscapes during his time as Chair and the Board thanks him for dedication, time, energy, and commitment to the organisation. Southern Queensland Landscapes is one of 11 Queensland-based Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisations. Spanning 314,398 square kilometres, the our footprint encompasses the Condamine catchment, Qld Murray Darling Basin and the south-west Mulga Lands. Southern Queensland Landscapes relies on evidence based information, supported by First Nations knowledge, to effectively balance productivity and environmental outcomes that support the regional communities within our landscapes.
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Southern Queensland Landscapes is seeking an experienced and influential Board Chair to lead a multi-skilled Board in managing natural resources across Southern Queensland. This is a 3-year remunerated role based in Toowoomba, QLD, with the flexibility to manage from anywhere in Southern QLD. The ideal candidate will bring: • Substantial experience leading diverse Boards • Strong relationship-building and leadership skills • Expertise in environmental and agricultural matters This role is an opportunity to shape the future of natural resource management, working closely with land managers, community leaders, and industry professionals. Are you ready to make an enduring impact? For more details and to apply, visit www.windsor-group.com.au/job/board-chair-natural-resources-peak-body or contact Mike Conroy at apply@windsor-group.com.au.
This week marked the final Board meeting for retiring Southern Queensland Landscape Chair, The Hon Bruce Scott AM. The Southern Queensland Landscapes Board hosted a function at Gip’s restaurant in Toowoomba, joined by past Directors, industry stakeholders and the Southern Queensland Landscapes Management team, where Bruce was warmly acknowledged and thanked. Bruce offered special thanks to his dear wife Joan for her support during his period of service to Southern Queensland Landscapes, in particular the warm country hospitality she has offered to many visitors to Roma. Bruce also recognised and thanked Southern Queensland Landscapes Company Secretary Pam Murphy, who has supported Bruce in his service to Southern Queensland Landscapes since the organisation’s inception.
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The Condamine Headwaters, a critical ecosystem in Southern Queensland, has long faced threats from sedimentation, habitat degradation, and thermal regime changes. The Blackfish Project, dedicated to reversing these impacts, unites scientists, landowners, and the community in a shared mission to restore and protect this vital environment. At its core lies the river blackfish, a sensitive indicator of the overall ecosystem health. Central to the project's success is the unwavering commitment of landowners like Paul Graham. Inspired by the project's vision, Paul reached out to SQ Landscapes seeking support for a solar pump and tank to divert his cattle away from waterways on his property. Paul's deep-rooted love for his land, captured in his humorous quip "I love my land more than I love my wife," is a testament to the powerful connection between people and place that drives conservation efforts.