Supporting environmental action, education and conservation across Rotary.
The Calperum and the Environment (CATE) Committee is a group of Rotarians who are passionate about protecting and enhancing our environment through practical action, education and community engagement.
CATE supports Rotary clubs, volunteers and young people to become actively involved in environmental initiatives that create lasting benefits for our communities and natural landscapes.
What Does CATE Do?
Promote Environmental Projects
Many Rotary clubs, including Magill Sunrise, are undertaking valuable environmental projects in their local communities. CATE provides a platform to showcase these initiatives, helping clubs share ideas, recruit volunteers and inspire similar projects.
Discover current environmental projects on the CATE Committee page.
Support Volunteer Projects at Calperum Station
For more than 25 years, District 9510 Rotarians have contributed to conservation and restoration activities at Calperum Station in South Australia’s Riverland.
CATE coordinates and promotes volunteer opportunities, enabling Rotary clubs and members to participate in meaningful environmental projects while experiencing one of Australia’s most significant ecological landscapes.
Coordinate the Health of the River (HOTR) Youth Forum
CATE oversees and supports the Health of the River (HOTR) Youth Forum, an immersive educational program for Year 9 and 10 students with an interest in ecology, sustainability and environmental science.
The forum provides young people with hands-on learning experiences and encourages them to become future environmental leaders.
Learn more about the Health of the River Youth Forum.
Share Funding and Grant Opportunities
Environmental grant programs are regularly offered by government agencies, foundations and commercial organisations. CATE helps clubs identify relevant funding opportunities that can support local environmental projects and initiatives.
The Calperum Story
Once a sheep and cattle station, Calperum Station has been transformed into a world-class conservation and research reserve managed by the Australian Landscape Trust (ALT).
Today, Calperum serves as a living laboratory for evidence-based landscape restoration and is recognised as an internationally significant wetland system.
Its work is built around three key pillars:
Ecology
Research into the management of plants, animals, water resources and soils to improve environmental outcomes.
Education
Providing opportunities for students, volunteers and the wider community to learn about ecology, conservation and sustainability.
Engagement
Connecting people with the landscape through hands-on experiences that foster an appreciation of the environment and its long-term protection.
Learn more about Calperum Station and the Australian Landscape Trust.