Celebrating Local Knowledge: Delatite Landcare Group’s Local Plants Book Launch
On Thursday 26 March 2026, nearly 60 community members gathered at Delatite Winery to celebrate the launch of the third edition of the Local Plants book by Delatite Landcare Group.
The evening was a wonderful reflection of what makes Landcare so special: community, collaboration, and a shared passion for the local environment. The strong turnout highlighted just how valued this resource is by landholders, educators, and nature enthusiasts across the region.
Honouring Country and Knowledge
Opening the evening, Delatite Landcare Group President Jeremy Madin acknowledged the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Taungurung people, recognising their deep and enduring connection to Country.
He reflected on the way Landcarers continue to learn from this legacy:
“As landcarers… we are constantly reminded of the custodianship of those who cared for this country for many thousands of years.”
Jeremy also highlighted the ingenuity and deep ecological knowledge of Traditional Custodians, particularly their use of local plants for food, fibre and tools—reminding everyone of the rich cultural and environmental history embedded in the landscape we care for today.
From a Simple Question to a Shared Vision
In her speech, Erica Lowing reflected on the early days of the project, when a common question from landholders sparked the idea:
“What should I plant?”
At the time, there was a clear need for practical, locally relevant guidance on indigenous species. As Erica shared,
“I had some knowledge of local native species, but not enough to provide the comprehensive answers people needed.”
What began as a simple idea soon grew into a shared vision—one that brought together knowledge, skills, and passion from across the local community.
A Truly Collaborative Effort
The development of the Local Plants book has always been a team effort, shaped by the contributions of many dedicated individuals over the years.
Jeremy captured this spirit on the night, acknowledging the wide network of supporters, partners and Landcare volunteers who helped bring the project to life, as well as the strong backing from local organisations and agencies.
He also paid tribute to the authors of the latest edition, Sue Ablitt and Geoff Boyes:
“How lucky are we to have them in Mansfield!”
Describing the scale of the work involved, Jeremy noted:
“It has been a deceptively huge project. In fact a complete re-write and re-illustrate.”
Their combined expertise has resulted in a guide that is both scientifically robust and highly accessible, with clear botanical descriptions and detailed imagery to support plant identification.
Dedication Over Decades
The journey from concept to publication spans more than two decades. The first edition was launched in 2006—also at Delatite Winery—making this latest event a meaningful full-circle moment.
Over time, the book has evolved and improved, incorporating new knowledge and refinements. The third edition represents the most comprehensive and polished version yet.
As Erica reflected:
“Of the three publications, this one is by far the closest to what I envisioned 25 years ago.”
Thank You
A sincere thank you to everyone who has contributed to this project over the years. In particular, we acknowledge the dedication of Geoff Boyes, Sue Ablitt, and Jeremy Madin, President of Delatite Landcare Group, along with the broader committee and contributors who have helped bring this edition to life.
We also recognise the many supporters, partners and community members who continue to back Landcare initiatives across the region.
Where to Purchase the Book
The third edition of the Local Plants book is now available for purchase for $25.
You can pick up a copy from the Up2Us Landcare Alliance office or from The Ink Bookshop.
Whether you’re planning a revegetation project or simply want to learn more about the incredible plant diversity of our region, this book is an invaluable resource.
