08/04/2026
You are invited to a MP farmer discussion on shelterbelt design on farms and Climate Change Induced Plant Dieback on the Mornington Peninsula at the Briars Friday, 17th April, 9am.
Guiding this talk is Dr Sacha Jellinek, a Senior Research Fellow from Melbourne University and Melbourne Water, who will discuss his latest research and knowledge relating to revegetation and impacts of climate change, and Dr Greg Holland, who will discuss shelterbelt design on farms and relevant information about dieback risks.
Shelterbelts offer a range of benefits to farmers if an appropriate design is used, including increased productivity, protection from winds and weather, and improved soil health. An effective shelterbelt design must include a range of multi-strata plant species. Establishing a shelterbelt takes several years and the impacts of climate change pose additional challenges, including dieback.
Across Australia, studies have found extensive plant dieback resulting from the local heat waves and drying conditions associated with climate change. Other damaging processes, such as excessive herbivore activity, may couple with the changing climate to take local ora beyond a tipping point. Dr Jellinek and Dr Holland have been researching these threats in collaboration with several local and academic groups and with support from Melbourne Water and the Natural Resources Conservation Trust.
Where: The Briars, 450 Nepean Hwy, Mount Martha (parking onsite)
When: Friday 17th April 2026
Time: 9.00am - 9.30am: arrivals and introductions, morning tea
9.30am - 12.00pm: talk and walk to dieback area, light lunch
Please RSVP by Wednesday the 15th of April at [email protected] or call Thomas Kennett on 0499 596 493 with any questions.
