Australian retirees turn spare time into care for nature
退職後の時間を自然保護に生かすオーストラリアの人々ほっこり
- メディア
- The Guardian
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- 🇦🇺 Australia
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英語本文
Retirement is giving some Australians more time to look after damaged landscapes and local wildlife. Their activities range from planting trees to monitoring small marine animals. A Guardian feature follows volunteers who have made conservation part of everyday life, using their experience and free time to improve places close to home.
In Western Australia, retired doctor Susan Downes bought a farm and began restoring native vegetation around Mount Mackie. About 45,000 native seedlings have since been planted, supported by grants and a volunteer group. Other plants have returned naturally. Downes is arranging long-term protection for the restored land so that it cannot simply be cleared again.
The work can be physically demanding, and older volunteers sometimes adapt to painful joints or other limitations. Still, they describe satisfaction in watching trees grow and wildlife return. Alongside the environmental benefits, these projects create opportunities to meet neighbours, share knowledge and leave something useful for the people who will care for the land next.