Hi Landcarer’s

Central West Lachlan Landcare and the National Parks Association Lachlan Valley Branch are pleased to welcome Warren Chad (Chaddy) to present at two events next week.

With funding from the Central West Local Land Services under the National Landcare Program, we are fortunate to have Chaddy sharing some of his knowledge on birds and photography.

Warren grew up on a small farm near Quirindi in Central Northern NSW. It was there, as a small boy that he developed an interest and appreciation of nature. Pet lambs and baby birds were a regular in the Chad household and an episode of In The Wild with Harry Butler was never missed on ABC TV.

For those of you, who like me, grew up with Harry Butler’s adventures In The Wild, you can perhaps appreciate how Chaddy gained an appreciation for the Australian bush and bird life.

After graduating from Quirindi High School in 1983 he moved to Condobolin and was employed at a local fish farm breeding native fish. Since then he has spent time working with the local Rural Lands Protection Board and since 1995 has been self employed in the building industry.

In 1985 he obtained his first field guide of Australian birds and through the years his love of nature has evolved into what is now a bit of an obsession. That obsession now sees him spending untold hours in the bush with only his camera and dog for company.

Chaddy still lives in Condobolin with his partner Leonie, cattle dog Beau and Murray the Long-billed Corella and we are thrilled that they are able to spend time with us leading into the long weekend.

So….by now you must be wondering how you can hear more from this fella. On Friday evening, 7 June, we shall hear from Chaddy at Parkes Neighbourhood Central from 6pm. He will have the opportunity to show some of his amazing photography, so if you are a budding photographer, this is for you. He will be bringing his gear as well as his photos. We will view some of his pics and learn more about the wonderful birds that we have in our own backyards and probably don’t even realise.

We will be providing a light supper on completion of the presentation and require RSVP’s as is the case for our breakfast on Saturday morning at PAC Park. We are fortunate to have Rotary supplying breakfast before our morning walk. Numbers are limited for the Saturday event, so please book in early via stickylinks or contact me on 0418 611 053 or cwllpo@hotmail.com

Friday – www.stickytickets.com.au/86731

Saturday – www.stickytickets.com.au/86732

Funding for these events is possible under the National Landcare Program Project overseen by the CWLLS, which is focused on protecting populations of the endangered Small Purple Pea (Swainsona Recta), which were once found throughout central NSW. Due to land clearing, overgrazing and other developments (or the like) the extent of the plant has markedly declined.

Informing the community and landholders about the Small Purple Pea will assist with finding new or enhancing current populations.

During the evening, we will have a presentation from CWLLS Officer, Libby McIntyre, who is overseeing the project.

I can’t finish this week’s column without mentioning the Back to Bulgandramine Cultural Gathering this Saturday and Sunday, 1 and 2 June. All of the information is on social media if you decide to head out. It is shaping up to be a fantastic weekend….it just seems to keep growing!

For more information, go to our website at centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, facebook, twitter or Instagram @cwllandcare.

Until next week, happy Landcaring!