The A - Z of Facebook (Covid-19 special)
For more than 15 years, Facebook has helped keep the citizens of the world connected. But if the idea of downloading and using an online social media platform is new to you or even makes you a bit nervous, it can be helpful to know a few important points before you dive in. From the Activity Log (A) to Zuckerberg (Z), read on to discover the ‘what’, and more importantly the ‘why’, of a few of Facebook's key functions.   

During this time of physical social distancing, but also for those who live remotely and/or have busy lives that stop them seeing people face-to-face as often as they’d like, Facebook an easy-to-use, connection-based platform that’s available to you now. So, let’s get started…   
A = ACTIVITY LOG: Your Activity Log is your one-stop-shop for everything you’ve done on Facebook. It lets know what you’ve Liked, who tagged you in photos, who or what you’ve removed, and much more. It’s located on your Profile page and can be searched by year.  

B = BIRTHDAYS: You’ll never miss a friend’s birthday again (as long as that friend has their birthday on their profile that is). When you open/login to Facebook for the first time each day, birthdays will appear in your Notifications (see N = Notifications for more information). 

C = COMMENT: When you see a post in your Timeline that you want to interact with, you can Like it, Comment, or Share it by clinking in the links at the bottom of the post. Anyone who can see the post, can see your comment so remember to Edit for appropriateness. 

D = DELETE: It’s said that once something appears on the internet, it’s there forever. On Facebook, that doesn’t have to be the case. If you write a post or comment and then want to edit or delete it, you can. Similarly, you can hide comments people make on your posts. 

E = EDIT: It’s important to know you can edit your words on Facebook. Perhaps the information you posted has changed, or you’ve thought of something extra to add, or spotted a typo. Using the edit function can ensure you create and share the right post. 

F = FRIENDS: Facebook was originally created to help people stay in touch with their friends and family. To find friends who also have Facebook accounts, type their name in the search bar and search through the list of profiles until you find the right person. Then send them a Friend Request. 

G = GROUPS: People with common interests can create and/or join a group with members living anywhere in the world. Open groups allow anyone to join, while closed groups require an administrator to approve membership, which is often based on interest-specific criteria.   
 
H = HELP: If you’re unsure how to use an aspect of Facebook, or can’t find something, click on the question mark icon, located on the bar at the top of the page. There are suggested topics, or you can search key words in the search box for useful tips and How-To guides.  

I = IMAGES: A picture is worth a thousand words and you can post an image (a photo, a GIF, an illustration) with or without words on your Timeline. You can also tag other people in the photo if you’re Friends with them on Facebook but make sure you have their permission. 

J = JUST: because it's your view or opinion, doesn't necessarily qualify it for a public platform. Remember, Facebook is a community of all kinds of people from various backgrounds. Ask yourself – could your posts or comments potentially offend, marginalise or belittle people? Or, are they factual, kind, uplifting and/or helpful? Put yourself in the shoes of others and be thoughtful about what you post.

K = KEEP UP TO DATE: One of the best things about Facebook is the ability to see what your friends, both near and far, are up to. People post to share significant life moments and celebrations such as birthdays, weddings, births and holidays. It has also become a place to grieve loss and seek support.      

L = LIKE: If you wish to share your feelings about a post, hover your cursor over the word Like and it will give you six emoji options. From left to right; Like (thumbs up), Love (heart), Haha (laughing face), Wow (surprised face), Sad (crying face) or Angry (grumpy face).   
M = MESSENGER: The speech bubble icon located on the bar at the top is Facebook’s private messaging platform. Once you are connected (Friends) with someone, you can talk to them one-on-one, or in a group, by typing messages or video calling them in Messenger.  

N = NOTIFICATIONS: When you log into Facebook, you’ll see the bell icon on the bar at the top of the screen has some numbers next to it. Those are how many notifications you have e.g.; someone has commented on or liked your post, a friend’s birthday, a reminder, etc.

O = OVERSEAS: According to Facebook’s January 2020 statistics, there are more than 2 billion people around the world with a Facebook account. In the Oceania/Australia region, 54% of people have Facebook. That’s a lot of potential Friends you can connect with.    

P = POST: Posting on your Timeline is how you let your Facebook community know what’s happening in your life. Click on your name on the bar at the top, then start writing your message, thoughts or news to be shared, in the text box next to your profile picture. 

Q = QUIZES: Facebook isn’t just about sharing and interacting with posts. Use the search bar to find quizzes and games you can enjoy on your own. Once you have your quiz results, you can usually share them on your timeline, or invite others to play too.   

R = RECOMMENDATIONS: Once you have a group of friends on Facebook, you can ask your community for recommendations on anything from businesses to restaurants. On the left of your timeline is an Explore list, with options including the Recommendations tab.  

S = SECURITY: To protect your personal security online, make sure you have a strong password for your account. You should also have your privacy settings set so only those you want to see your posts, e.g.; your friends as opposed to the general public, can see them. 

T = TIMELINE: Your Timeline (or Home) is where you see everything your friends, or the companies you’re following, are posting. Scroll to see what’s going on in the world and interact by commenting or liking the posts which make you smile or think.    

U = UNFOLLOW: If you don’t like the posts filling your Timeline, you can unfollow the friend/s, or the company, whose content you don’t like. You’ll still remain Friends with them, you just won’t see what they’re posting unless you search for their profile. 

V = VIDEOS: Videos are another way people can share what is happening in their lives. They can be added to a post, the same as a picture. Short videos are the easiest and quickest to upload and they should show a genuine side of your personality and life.   

W = WHEN: Facebook isn’t something that shuts down at night-time. It is always online. However, to know when your friends are also online, click the Chat box in the lower right-hand corner. Friends who are online while you are you will have a green dot next to their name.  

X = Xactly WHAT YOU NEED RIGHT NOW: During the social distancing/self-isolation restrictions of the current COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook is the perfect way to connect, communicate and cope with family and friends. Remember #weareallinthistogether  

Y = YES, YOU CAN: You don’t have to be a technology-whizz to use Facebook. The main features (posting and commenting) are easy to get the hang of with a little practice. It is free to use and can be downloaded on your home computer, tablet or smart phone. Have a play with it and remember, you can’t break it! 

Z = ZUCKERBERG: Mark Zuckerberg is the man behind Facebook. He created Facebook while studying at Harvard University and whether you Like it or not, Zuckerberg is now a multi-billionaire for giving the world one easy-to-use platform for business and personal connection. 

To register for a Facebook profile, go to www.facebook.com and sign up. The Facebook application (app) can be download to your smart phone or tablet from the Apple or Samsung app store. To follow SQ Landscapes on Facebook, click the Facebook (f) icon below. 
25 September 2025
We are seeing fantastic momentum across the region, with strong interest from landholders in improving land condition. Even better, clusters of neighbouring properties are getting involved, a promising sign for achieving landscape-scale change that supports water infiltration, soil health, and resilient groundcover. To help visualise this, Projects Lead Payel Sinha, developed a set of clever graphics that capture the essence of the NRRP program. The circular diagram below shows how water, soil, vegetation, grazing, and ecosystem balance are interconnected, all working together to support healthier landscapes.
24 September 2025
We were honoured to have CEO Gillian Meppem, Richard Turnbull, Dr Payel Sinha and Uncle Kevin, a Margany Elder from near Quilpie, come together on the Gold Coast for this year’s Landcare Conference, representing our vision, work and cultural partnerships across the region. Dr Payel Sinha delivered a presentation on the Natural Resource Recovery Program: A Holistic Approach to Restoring Landscapes , showcasing how integrative, place-based strategies can unite ecological health, cultural values and community resilience.
22 September 2025
About this Role The Project Officer role works closely with Project Leads and team colleagues to deliver projects aligned to the Strategic Plan. The role requires an understanding of project management and stakeholder engagement principles, ideally within regional communities. Working under general supervision with only limited instruction, Project Officers will bring a commercial understanding to the delivery of on-ground project work through contractors, land manager partnerships and other community stakeholders that facilitate positive and sustainable transformation of agricultural practices and environmental stewardship. Location Any Southern Queensland Landscapes office location (Toowoomba, Charleville or Roma). Key Responsibilities Independently and as a team member deliver developed sustainable agriculture and natural resource management programs, on time and to budget using the designated business project management system. With the support of the Project Leads, deliver project reports, including funding acquittals. Conduct farm and other site visits to assess land manager constraints and opportunities and alignment of proposed activities to program outcomes and deliverables. Achieve on-farm adoption of practice change through support for land management changes, including negotiating co-contribution agreements with a demonstrated commercial mindset. Organise and facilitate extension activities such as workshops and field days, and support the knowledge transfer and media output (communication) aspects of programs. Collect and analyse data, and document project activity outcomes. Collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, community groups, First Nations and aligned industry partners. Support Project Leads in the development phase of programs and the Business Development function. Embrace and model the behaviours and culture of a high-performance team. Key Requirements Relevant certificate or tertiary qualifications in Business, Agricultural or Environmental Science or other relevant field. Demonstrated strong knowledge of Australian farming systems and commitment to sustainable agriculture and natural resource management. Competency in project management, including budget acquittal and reporting, high level proficiency in computing skills and data management. Technical experience across environmental, agricultural or adjacent sectors. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively. Our Shared Commitment At Southern Queensland Landscapes, we value a safe, respectful, and high-performing workplace. As part of our team, you’ll be required to: Uphold the organisations values and act with integrity, professionalism, and respect in all interactions with colleagues, stakeholders, and the community. Follow all company policies and procedures, your employment contract, and relevant legislation. Actively contribute to a safe work environment by applying our workplace health and safety (WHS) policies, demonstrating due diligence, commitment and care. Respect confidentiality and privacy requirements when handling sensitive information, in accordance with relevant privacy laws, policies and procedures. Be adaptable and undertake any reasonable duties across our teams and locations, supporting Southern Queensland Landscapes’ broader strategic objectives. Seek and support continuous improvement by regularly reflecting on how we do things – individually, as a team, and across the business. Embrace our continual learning culture by participating in training and professional development that enhances your skills and impact. Be prepared to work outside of normal hours on occasion to meet project or organisational requirements. Undertake any mandatory training within a reasonable timeframe. Hold and maintain a valid driver’s licence. Be willing to travel, including overnight stays, as reasonably required. ο»Ώ
22 September 2025
About this Role The Project Leads role works closely with the Program Delivery Manager and Programs Manager to deliver projects against the Strategic Plan. The role requires high level project development and management skills with experience working within regional communities, to facilitate positive and sustainable transformation of agricultural practices and environmental stewardship. A key function of the role is the leadership and development of a team of Project Officers and external contractors to be a high performing team that ensures projects are delivered commercially and to customer and stakeholder expectations. Project Leads will bring a growth mindset with the capacity to overcome challenges, embrace learning opportunities, and continuously improve products and services. Location Any Southern Queensland Landscapes office location (Toowoomba, Charleville or Roma). Key Responsibilities Support the Program Delivery team to develop and deliver sustainable agriculture and natural resource management programs, on time and to budget, informed by effective project performance analysis. Delivery of all program reports, including funding acquittals, while maintaining strong communication and relationship with funders. Develop the team through training, coaching and mentoring, while enhancing the systems and tools that support program delivery, to enable a team of Project Officers and contractors that deliver customer service levels that are best in the sector. Support the team to conduct farm and other site visits to assess land manager constraints and opportunities and propose suitable, innovative solutions to achieve on-farm adoption through support for land management practice change, including negotiating co-contribution agreements with a demonstrated commercial mindset. Support the team to plan and deliver innovative extension activities, knowledge transfer artefacts, and media outputs. Collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, community groups, First Nations and aligned industry partners to identify partnership opportunities and strategically leverage current programs to optimise delivery and business outcomes. Supporting the Program Delivery Manager and Programs Manager in the development phase of programs and the Business Development function. Support the Leadership team to deliver priority operational programs and cross business functions against the Strategic Plan. Embrace and model the behaviours and culture of a high-performance team. Key Requirements Tertiary qualifications in Business Management, Agricultural or Environmental Science, or other relevant field, with experience in a similar role and a level of skills sufficient to perform the role. Demonstrated ability to lead multiple complex projects with a range of stakeholders. Demonstrated high level experience in systems to plan, schedule, and track multiple programs of work to deliver on time and to budget. Demonstrated experience in industry extension principles and practices and in successfully engaging with and providing capacity building activities for the agricultural and land management sectors. Demonstrated ability and experience in developing and leading a high performing, diverse team through fostering strong performance and constructively navigating challenges as they arise. Extensive experience working with landholders, contractors and other stakeholders. Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate with influence, to a diverse client base including landholders, industry groups, and government. A growth mindset with the capacity to overcome challenges, embrace learning opportunities, and continuously improve products and services. Our Shared Commitment At Southern Queensland Landscapes, we value a safe, respectful, and high-performing workplace. As part of our team, you’ll be required to: Uphold the organisations values and act with integrity, professionalism, and respect in all interactions with colleagues, stakeholders, and the community. Follow all company policies and procedures, your employment contract, and relevant legislation. Actively contribute to a safe work environment by applying our workplace health and safety (WHS) policies, demonstrating due diligence, commitment and care. Respect confidentiality and privacy requirements when handling sensitive information, in accordance with relevant privacy laws, policies and procedures. Be adaptable and undertake any reasonable duties across our teams and locations, supporting Southern Queensland Landscapes’ broader strategic objectives. Seek and support continuous improvement by regularly reflecting on how we do things – individually, as a team, and across the business. Embrace our continual learning culture by participating in training and professional development that enhances your skills and impact. Be prepared to work outside of normal hours on occasion to meet project or organisational requirements. Undertake any mandatory training within a reasonable timeframe. Hold and maintain a valid driver’s licence. Be willing to travel, including overnight stays, as reasonably required. ο»Ώ
10 September 2025
The rapidly evolving global market for agricultural commodities, including cotton, was front and centre at the recent Australian Cotton Research Conference held in Narrabri, NSW. A key theme throughout the event was the increasing pressure climate change places on cotton production and how the industry is adapting through innovation and research. Andrew Davidson of Southern Queensland Landscapes introduced an innovative national project funded by the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC). The project focuses on mapping woody vegetation across cotton farms in Australia, a crucial step toward better understanding on-farm biodiversity and supporting sustainability goals. The project uses a cutting-edge methodology developed by Southern Queensland Landscapes, drawing on a national dataset curated by the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN). What makes this approach unique is its ability to consistently measure vegetation across state and territory lines, overcoming long-standing challenges caused by fragmented and inconsistent regional datasets. The initiative is a true collaboration between the cotton industry, Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups, and NRM Regions Australia. Together, they aim to build a national picture of woody vegetation cover, including how much of it connects to larger, regional biodiversity corridors. Why It Matters... This vegetation data will provide a scientifically robust and cost-effective indicator of potential biodiversity on cotton farms. In practical terms, it can help: • Support cotton growers in meeting environmental standards for market access • Inform risk management strategies and conversations with financiers • Align with international frameworks such as: - The Science-Based Targets for Nature - The Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework - The Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) As the cotton industry looks to remain competitive and resilient in a changing climate, initiatives like this are critical. They help position Australian cotton as a globally trusted, environmentally responsible product.
30 July 2025
A Message From Our CEO, Gillian Meppem
29 July 2025
Project Officers Katrina Higgins and Erin Landsberg recently joined Rose and Weston from Boobook Ecological Consulting in Roma, to complete field monitoring in the Murweh and Maranoa districts. This monitoring measures the value and health of Coolibah, Poplar Box, and Brigalow habitat. During this time, we deployed acoustic recorders and motion-sensor wildlife cameras, and took DNA samples from nearby water sources to ascertain the fauna within these threatened habitats.
8 July 2025
Playing a Leading Role in the National Soil Monitoring Program Queensland’s regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisations are playing a leading role in the National Soil Monitoring Program (NSMP), one of Australia’s most ambitious efforts to assess and improve soil health. Funded by the Australian Government through the Natural Heritage Trust and led by CSIRO, the NSMP will involve sampling at approximately 3,000 sites nationwide over three years, more than 850 of those in Queensland, with a focus on key agricultural zones. Queensland’s NRM groups have formed northern and southern clusters to deliver the program, contributing valuable expertise from over 25 years of on-ground experience. Southern Queensland Landscapes will lead delivery for the QLD South cluster of regions. The data collected will provide a nationally consistent picture of soil condition and health, enabling better decision-making for farmers, land managers, and policymakers to support sustainable, climate-smart agriculture. Jayne Thorpe, Business Development Manager at Southern Queensland Landscapes said, “In total, the QLD South cluster will collect 565 soil samples over the course of the project. That will work out as 11.3 tonnes of soil sent for analysis!”
11 June 2025
1. What is Natural Capital? Natural capital refers to the natural resources and ecosystems, like soils, native vegetation, water, and biodiversity, that underpin productive farming and provide essential services such as clean water, healthy soils and carbon storage. For Queensland landholders, this means your land’s value now includes the environmental benefits it delivers, not just crops or livestock. While the term Natural Capital has risen to prominence with government, industry and the public in recent years, the sustainable use of our natural capital, its maintenance and improvement have been fundamental to regional NRM organisations since inception. Identifying and assessing our natural assets are foundational to the development of our regional NRM strategies and plans which guide our operations and provide us with the knowledge and expertise to play a key role in Australia’s efforts to manage and enhance our Natural Capital. 2. Why Does Natural Capital Matter in Agriculture? Australian agriculture is experiencing a shift where nature and production are seen as interconnected assets. This approach is being driven by both market demand and new government policies, with natural capital now influencing land values, investments, and farm business resilience. 3. How Can Farmers Monetise Natural Capital? Natural capital markets allow landholders to earn income by improving or protecting their land’s natural assets. The most common ways to participate include: Carbon Credits: Under the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme, farmers can generate credits by adopting practices like reforestation, soil carbon improvement, or avoided clearing. These credits are regulated by the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) and can be sold to the government or private buyers. Biodiversity Certificates: The new federal Nature Repair Market, established by the Nature Repair Act 2023, allows farmers to earn tradable biodiversity certificates for projects that restore or protect native ecosystems. The CER also administers this market, ensuring robust oversight and scientific credibility. Land Restoration Fund (LRF): Queensland’s LRF builds on the federal framework, offering extra incentives for projects that deliver both carbon abatement and environmental co-benefits, such as improved water quality or habitat restoration. The LRF works in tandem with the ACCU Scheme and prioritises projects that support regional sustainability. More Information: πŸ”— www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/natural-capital/explained πŸ”— www.cer.gov.au/schemes/australian-carbon-credit-unit-scheme πŸ”— www.qld.gov.au/environment/climate/climate-change/land-restoration-fund πŸ”— www.nrmrq.org.au/queensland-nature-fund-natural-capital πŸ”— www.legislation.gov.au/C2023A00121/latest/text
6 May 2025
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. ο»Ώ