The Challenge

Across the Mansfield Shire, woody weeds are thriving and causing significant problems for landholders. Blackberry, Sweet Briar, Broom, Gorse, Hawthorn, and various thistles have taken hold across the region, posing both environmental and agricultural threats.

Blackberry, the most prevalent woody weed in our region, creates particular challenges:

• Outcompetes native vegetation and pastures

• Provides shelter for pest species (rabbits, deer, and foxes)

• Restricts access to watercourses for livestock

• Decreases land usability with sharp thorns and dense growth

• Increases fire risks from accumulated dead canes

• Reduces property values and overall landscape amenity

Our Approach: Mansfield's War on Weeds

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.

2024-2025 Woody Weed Incentive Program

We're pleased to offer the following support to landholders:

1. Individual Rebates: 50% rebate up to $350 for woody weed control using woody weed specific herbicides or engaging a local weed contractor

2. 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

3. 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

• Create lasting change in your local area

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.

Get Involved

To access 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.