SINCE 2004 Judith Roland has devoted her time to regenerating and caring for the forests and natural landscape of Tamborine Mountain.
She’s up early and is out most days quietly planting, weeding or meeting with contractors to plan the management of the reserves that Landcare look after.
During COVID Judith, along with her small band of workers, planted a large area of land at the Hartley Road Landcare Centre, an area now flourishing, and enjoyed by locals.
On May 25 her dedication was recognised by the 2023/24 State and Territory Landcare Awards, winning the Australian Government Individual Landcarer Award for Queensland.
Judith’s fellow volunteers nominated her for the award.
“We are delighted that Judith’s hard work has been recognised,” Tamborine Mountain Landcare secretary, Liz Adams said.
“Judith’s efforts and extraordinary leadership have been crucial in the remarkable turn around that has occurred in the Mountain’s natural environment over the last 20 years.”
In 2011 the 77-year-old took on the role of regeneration coordinator and in 2014 became president.
Judith says being recognised for her work through the award has been overwhelming but hopes it will bring statewide recognition to Tamborine Mountain Landcare.
“When I joined Landcare nearly 20 years ago my goal was to assist our organisation in regenerating all the council reserves on Tamborine Mountain, and that’s almost been achieved,” she said.
“I love the work and being with the fantastic Landcare people who have supported me all the way along.”
Tamborine Mountain Landcare began with a small group in 2003 with only 20 members and now have 150 members, including many working bee participants, and about 20 volunteers running the Piccabeen bookshop, which Judith established as a source of funding 15 years ago.
Judith works alongside other organisations, such as TM Natural History Association, and the Show Society, along with the local schools, participating in environmental studies. Advising private landowners on weed control and regeneration is another part of the role as President and this is her favourite task.
With no formal qualifications, Judith has learnt when and where to plant, which weeds are a problem and how to regenerate the land to provide a sanctuary for wildlife.
“We are in a biodiversity hotspot with so many native trees and shrubs and it’s important to conserve these natural areas, including private properties who have custodianship of some wonderful forests.
“I’ve had so much pleasure doing it and seeing areas turned into mini rainforests. It’s so rewarding,” Judith shared.
“I will keep doing it until I can’t.”
By Cindy Lever
