The Lachlan Valley branch of the National Parks Association promote the natural environment by organising several walks each quarter, showcasing parks and reserves in the Central West of NSW.
The Lachlan Valley Branch of National Parks Association has been nominated for the NSW Environmental Citizen of the Year Award.
The group won the Environment Award at this year’s Australia Day Awards ceremony in Parkes, and will now compete with other nominees for the state-wide award. The winner, to be announced on World Environment Day on Saturday, 5th June, will receive a one-off donation of $3,000 to put towards their community initiative.
The Lachlan Valley branch of the National Parks Association has been operating for over 20 years. To promote the natural environment, the group of knowledgeable volunteers provide several walks each quarter, showcasing parks and reserves in the Central West of NSW.
Besides being important educational oportunities, the walks promote exercise, mental wellbeing and provide participants with the opportunity to create meaningful community connections.
Even though the initial goal may have been to enjoy nature and record the region’s flora and fauna, the outcome has exceeded expectations with lifelong friendships and strong local partnerships being forged as well.
“The Australia Day Council of NSW is proud to once again to partner with Return and Earn to present the inspirational Environmental Citizen of the Year Awards. This important initiative, in its third year, recognises the incredible efforts being made by NSW citizens – young and old – who are creating a more sustainable environment that benefits all of us,” said Andrew Parker, Chair, Australia Day Council of NSW.