The Noongar Land Enterprise Group (NLE) has commenced the Noongar Native Grasses Trial, a major project funded through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) Community Stewardship Program.
The trial supports First Nations landowners and farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture practices and integrate cultural knowledge, including cultural burning, to restore ecosystems and biodiversity on Noongar Boodja (country).
NLE chief executive officer Alan Beattie said the project was an important step in repairing country that had been heavily impacted by clearing and intensive farming over the past two centuries.
“More than 95 per cent of Noongar country has been cleared, leaving landscapes and biodiversity largely destroyed,” Mr Beattie said. “This trial is about finding ways to heal country by bringing together Noongar native grass species, regenerative farming and Noongar cultural practices.”
The trial is underway at three sites across Noongar Boodja: Yallalie Downs (Beemurra Aboriginal Corporation) near Dandaragan, Avondale Park (Yaraguia Enterprises) near Beverley, and NLE’s Boola Boornap native tree farm near Northam.
At each site, Noongar native grass species are being planted and monitored to assess their role in improving soil health, restoring biodiversity and contributing to more sustainable farming systems.
Mr Beattie said the project demonstrated the strength of collaboration.
“We are fortunate to be working alongside Curtin University and the Native Seed Technology Innovation Hub, as well as with Noongar-led enterprises on country,” he said. “By combining cultural stewardship with scientific research, we’re creating a model that supports both land and people.”
The Community Stewardship Program funds projects that deliver practical on-ground outcomes while building long-term capacity for environmental management.
For NLE, this trial builds on its broader commitment to support Noongar enterprises and landholders to adopt practices that are both sustainable and culturally grounded.
“Restoring country is not just about the environment, it’s about strengthening cultural connections and creating opportunities for future generations,” Mr Beattie said. “This project is one of many steps we’re taking to ensure Noongar people continue to lead in caring for country.”
The trial will run through to mid-2026, with outcomes expected to inform future landcare approaches across the south-west.
