A female Ampurta caught in the Simpson Desert

To help the community escape the drought and tough economic times, the South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board is holding the Arid Lands Muster: A Rural Living Expo. 

As well as giving you a chance to catch up with your mates, the Arid Lands Muster will include a variety of workshops including one about outback critters like this female Ampurta caught in the Simpson Desert.

The two-day, free event will be held from 19-20 June 2009 at the Cooinda Club, Port Augusta. It has been planned in response to community demand and has been driven by a committee of landholders.

‘The SA Arid Lands NRM Board has been listening to its community,’ said Mr John Gavin, General Manager of the SAAL NRM Board.  ‘We understand that people have been doing it tough and could do with some relief from the drought that doesn’t hurt their hip pocket.’ ‘We want to show that we’re not just about natural resources management – we’re about community.’

The Arid Lands Muster is about catching up with old friends while being part of a supportive environment where the community can learn about health and wellbeing, and the support avenues available during tough times.

In addition to free entrance, attendees will enjoy a complimentary dinner and entertainment. Children will also be catered for with free childcare and loads of fun activities. And to minimise accommodation costs, the event has also been timed to allow travel in the morning and return the next afternoon.

‘You will also learn more about hot topics such as climate change and land management from leading speakers in the field, and have the opportunity to participate in a variety of workshops held throughout the event including on pest management, land management and threatened animals,’ said Mr Gavin.

Registration forms and further information are available from the SAAL NRM Board website or from Louise Gavin 8648 5977.