Environmental Champions Recognised At SALP 25 Year Awards

The Swan Alcoa Landcare Program (SALP) has celebrated its 25th year with the announcement of $280,000 for community-led conservation, supporting 25 groups undertaking 57 environmental projects improving bushland and waterways in the Swan, Canning and surrounding catchments.

The partnership between Alcoa of Australia, the Burswood Park Board and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), delivered by Perth NRM, has contributed more than $10 million to the community over its lifetime.

The funding provides resources for the maintenance and extension of work at existing sites and revegetation of new areas and is integral to the operations of many environmental groups. 

SALP has also enhanced the ability of local environmental groups to secure commitment from land managers and other stakeholders, as well as leverage additional funds which all results in greater environmental outcomes. 

This funding supports the hugely significant work of community volunteers, who have provided labour worth an estimated $5.3 million (more than 241,000 volunteer hours) over the last 25 years across 1,625 SALP-funded projects. 

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Manager Rivers and Estuaries Branch Glen McLeod-Thorpe said these successful conservation works have improved public spaces by restoring local bushland and waterways, providing habitat for native species. 

“The program helps passionate volunteers and key stakeholders fund projects that make a real difference when it comes to managing, protecting and enhancing the Swan and Canning rivers,” Mr McLeod-Thorpe said. 

Alcoa Australia President Robert Bear said, “It is remarkable to think that a quarter of a century of working together has made such a positive difference to our Swan and Canning catchments.

Alcoa is a proud partner of SALP, and we want to thank all the grassroots environmental champions for their contribution to these environmental initiatives for the last 25 years.” 

“Perth NRM is proud to have delivered this program to the community for so many years,” said Perth NRM Chief Executive Officer, Keith Pekin. 

“Devolved grant systems like SALP offer funding for community groups that may not be eligible for other funding sources, especially unincorporated volunteer groups.” 

To see the successful 2023 recipients and projects, please visit Perth NRM news. Applications for the 2024 Round of the Swan Alcoa Landcare Program are open now. 

Please visit the Swan Alcoa Landcare Program project page for guidelines and application resources.