Greater Bendigo facilitates a variety of programs aimed at supporting landowners in managing and enhancing their properties. This section delves into the key issues, opportunities, and potential strategies related to these programs, providing a holistic overview of the available support.

A number of key issues have been identified, including:

• The Rural Regeneration Grants is a relatively new program launched in October 2023 and there many be limited awareness among landholders.
• The requirement for a dollar-for-dollar contribution can be a significant barrier for those with limited financial resources. The diversity of conservation and agricultural needs further complicates the effective allocation of grant funds. Nevertheless, the first financial year delivered 18 different grants to local landholders and used up the majority of the funds available.
• The Healthy Landscapes Program faces its own challenges, where landholders might lack detailed knowledge necessary to fully benefit from the program. Sustaining the program long-term requires continuous funding and support.
• The Farm Visits program offer personalised advice, but the limited capacity means not all landholders can benefit. Ensuring that the advice given during these visits is implemented effectively can also be a challenge without adequate follow-up support.
• Participation in Other Workshops and Field Days can be hampered by time constraints, travel distances, and a general lack of awareness. Even when landholders do attend, retaining and applying the information can be difficult, affecting long-term outcomes.

A number of opportunities have been identified, including:

• For Rural Regeneration Grants, increased promotion can raise awareness and participation. The grants themselves can drive environmental conservation efforts and promote regenerative agriculture, creating successful case studies that inspire other landholders.
• There is an opportunity to publish successful projects undertaken through the grant to promote the process and highlight the sort of working being undertaken such as fencing off waterways, weed management and indigenous plantings.
• The Healthy Landscapes Program benefits from using local presenters, which enhances its relevance and impact. This should be encouraged further. Covering comprehensive topics such as pasture management, livestock health, biodiversity, water management, and soil health provide holistic support. Field days and discussion groups further foster a sense of community and shared learning, leading to ongoing collaboration and support.
• Farm Visits provide tailored, site-specific advice, allowing for immediate implementation of recommended practices. These visits could serve as demonstration sites, showcasing successful regenerative agriculture and biodiversity practices, inspiring others.
• For Other Workshops and Field Days, collaboration with key organisations can enhance quality and reach. Targeting lifestyle owners and tree-changers addresses specific needs such as basic animal husbandry, biosecurity, and whole farm planning, improving climate resilience and long-term sustainability.

A number of potential strategies have been identified, including:

• Maximise the impact of Rural Regeneration Grants by launching awareness campaigns through local media, community meetings, and social media to inform more landholders about the opportunities.
• Facilitation of additional financial assistance or flexible payment options could support those struggling with the co-contribution requirement. Ensuring the grant covers a wide range of projects can address the diverse needs of landholders.
• Expanding the Healthy Landscapes Program’s reach through online platforms can help access remote areas, providing flexible learning options. Introductory courses can build foundational knowledge, preparing participants for more advanced topics. Sustainable funding through partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and non-profits will ensure the program’s longevity.
• Increasing the capacity for Farm Visits by training additional staff or volunteers can extend the program’s reach. Implementing a follow-up program will provide ongoing support, ensuring effective implementation of recommendations. Documenting and sharing success stories from farm visits can educate and inspire other landholders.
• Improving other Workshops and Field Days, offering events in various locations and at different times can accommodate more participants.
• Providing follow-up materials, online resources, and ongoing support will help participants retain and apply their knowledge. Expanding partnerships with a broader range of organisations will diversify the topics covered and attract a wider audience.