Up2Us Landcare Alliance has been running the successful "War on Weeds" program for nine years, working collaboratively with the Mansfield Shire Council, government organisations, and local landholders to combat woody weeds efficiently and effectively.
2026 Woody Weed Incentive Program
We're pleased to offer the following support to landholders:
Individual Rebates: 50% rebate up to $350 for woody weed control using woody weed specific herbicides or engaging a local weed contractor
Neighbourhood Approach: For multiple landholders working together on strategic multi-property weed control (minimum of three neighbouring properties):
50% rebate up to $450 per property
$100 bonus incentive for the coordinating landholder
Additional Support Services:
Free property visits with a 4-year woody weed management plan tailored to your property
Access to a 200-litre battery-powered spray unit for hire
Annual woody weed management workshop (held every March)
Technical advice on best practice control methods
Why Join Forces with Neighbours?
Weeds know no boundaries! By working with your neighbours to control woody weeds across multiple adjoining properties, you can:
Achieve more effective, landscape-scale results
Share knowledge, resources, and potentially costs
Prevent reinfestation from neighbouring properties
Access increased financial support through our tiered rebate system
When to Act
The optimal time for woody weed management is between November and April when plants are actively growing. Chemical control is most effective during this period, especially prior to seed set.
For small infestations, physical removal may be sufficient. For larger areas, a strategic spraying program is recommended. Remember that woody weeds like Blackberry can take a 3-year period to control effectively and require ongoing management.
Woody weed rebate form
Fill out and submit the form below to access rebates for woody weed control.
Mansfield District War on Weeds
The challenge posed by woody weeds
Across Mansfield Shire, woody weeds such as Blackberry, Sweet Briar, Broom, Gorse, Hawthorn and thistles pose significant environmental and agricultural challenges. Blackberry is the region’s most prevalent woody weed, causing problems by:
Outcompeting native vegetation and pastures
Providing shelter for pests such as rabbits, deer and foxes
Restricting livestock access to waterways
Reducing usable land due to dense, thorny growth
Increasing fire risk from dead canes
Lowering property values and landscape amenity
To discuss rebates, register events, or learn more about managing woody weeds on your property:
Phone: (03) 5779 1593
Email: landcare2@up2us.org.au
Office: 24 Highett Street, Mansfield
This project is supported by the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority through funding from the Victorian Government's Victorian Landcare Program.
Additional resources
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