It is most encouraging that the Urban Wildlife Gardens Program was recognised as meeting the objectives of the UNESCO Biosphere reserve. UWG supports and contributes to the Noosa Integrated Catchment Association (NICA) management objectives in respect of best practice land management in urban areas within the Noosa River catchment.
UWG is a NICA project managed by our dedicated subcommittee of Stephanie and Tony Haslam, Michelle Newall, Keron Hilton, Vanessa Presling, Shaun Walsh and Kay Southam. We are supported by Gill Studdock and Danielle Taylor our excellent Administrative and Media Relations persons and Noosa Council representative Shayan Barmand.
We enjoyed the Awards Evening with six members of the UWG committee attending, whilst Vanessa and Shaun were away and had to wait in anticipation of the result. Joining us on the night were Suzanne Bloomfield, who designed the UWG logo, John Bloomfield, Veronica and Steve Whitter, who nominated us for the Award, and Shayan from Council. Juanita Bloomfield, the NICA President, was also in the audience urging us on and much excited with the outcome.
The MC for the evening was Phil Moran and a representative from The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) presented Michelle with the award. Michelle dedicated it to Stephanie, the program’s founder along with husband Tony.
As you are all aware, Michelle is the face of the UWG program. We appreciate her tireless and wonderful work, her knowledge and the way she shares this knowledge willingly and happily with UWG members.
We thank all of you who have contributed to the success of the UWG program, giving of your time in so many different ways, from early subcommittee members, council representatives and members to those offering their amenities, opening their gardens and presenting workshops. Your work and kindness has given us much joy and motivation on our path.
Many thanks to the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation, the judging panel, sponsors and to Veronica for nominating us.
A special mention and thank you to Gill Studdock for her administrative assistance, patience and long time support.
Kay Southam
