Community power transforms Rokeby bushland

With the support of her family and friends, they formed the Rokeby Hills Community Landcare Group in 2021. They soon joined two other community members who had already begun restoring the 23-hectare site owned by Homes Tasmania. Together, they removed rubbish and tackled boneseed, an invasive weed that had spread across the property.

Since then, with broader community involvement, the group’s achievements have been outstanding. Across two Clean Up Australia Day events, volunteers removed more than four tonnes of rubbish and now, most of the mature boneseed plants had been cleared from the site.

Needing to dispose of large volumes of plant material, the group looked for a sustainable solution. Rather than transporting it offsite, members began converting the waste into biochar, a charcoal-like substance that improves soil health while capturing carbon.

With support from biochar advocate Bill Harvey, the group trialled the process in late 2025. Following its success, a larger working bee was held in April 2026. Over three days, volunteers cleared massive piles of boneseed and converted it into more than 1,500 litres of biochar. This smart solution prevented around one tonne of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. The biochar is now being shared with the community for use in local gardens, improving soil quality and water retention.

This entire restoration project has brought together a wide range of contributors, including community volunteers, Homes Tasmania, Pakana Services and local contractors. Nearly 100 people have taken part over the past 18 months.

“It’s not about one person,” group convenor BJ Walker said. “It’s about everyone working together. Action speaks louder than words⁠—when one person starts, others follow. It’s incredibly rewarding to see more people now using and caring for this area.”

There are many Landcare groups across the Eastern Shore welcoming new volunteers. Find your local group.

“Just come along and give it a try,” BJ said. “You’ll meet great people, learn new skills and make a real difference.”

Rokeby Hills Community Landcare Group have been nominated as this month’s Climate Champions by Clarence Climate Action.

Eastern Shore Sun, May 2026, page 25