Words of wisdom
Explore heartfelt stories and observations from our volunteers, inspired by their work and workshops spent journaling in nature. These writings reveal the quiet beauty of giving back and connecting with the natural world.

National Volunteer Week Submission - MRBBG 2024 Sally Piper

A poem contributed by Tamsin Kerr for National Volunteers Week at MRBBG 2024.




Capturing the magic
This flipbook features photos shared by our volunteers, showing their connection to the places, they care for.

Budding photographer Kirby (aged 9) had an enjoyable morning at the sanctuary's crab platform for World Wetlands Day. However, it wasn't long before their grounds were covered with the fast-rising tide. He was even lucky enough to spot one of the local Mudskippers.

I have been working on a project involving the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary Support Group volunteers over the last few months. We have been hitting the podcast room at the Kawana Library, recording intriguing information regarding the sanctuary which, along with environmental audio, has been used on the newly installed interactive audio boards located within the sanctuary. I am so delighted to be part of this project and excited to share my love of the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary through my photographs and environmental soundscapes

“I have realised a sense of community through becoming part of this enthusiastic, hardworking, nurturing group of likeminded gardeners. The joy of working in and contributing to this beautiful space is shared by one and all in the group.” Sally Piper

Leaf prints by Marg Grambaurer. Nature Journaling 2024

Pademelon resting on the forest floor at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Robert Gillingham 2024.

'My Walk' A photo montage of a flora and fauna at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. Sarah Swanton 2024.
This was taken moments after it had stopped raining. I noticed steam rising off the pathway I was walking on. My first thought was 'the forest is breathing.' I almost didn’t take this shot as I was amazed and stunned at what I was witnessing. Carmel Wirth.

Close-up of a rainforest tree trunk adorned with circular patches of lichen in varying shades of green and gray, forming natural ring-like patterns against the rough, mossy bark. Alan Swanton

'Leaf imitating an insect' Joan McVilly. A dry brown leaf rests delicately on a green palm frond, its curled edges and segmented shape closely resembling the form of a camouflaged insect blending into the foliage.

I fell in love with the forest when I first visited Mary Cairncross in 2016. Now in my 7th year of volunteering here, I still can't get enough of her effervescent, forever-changing personalities! The colours, the smell, the shapes against the shadow of the sun; and the live creatures within, in abundance, thriving, in harmony, all in coexistence, in symbiosis. Elaine Welmans 2024.

Drawn from photos taken at Mary Cairncross - Ink pen and alcohol markers. School children I take on guided walks sometimes talk about fairies, either questioningly or knowingly. When I stopped to take the photos, it wasn't because I thought they'd look good, but because I was drawn into a scene, or a world that was just so beautiful. It's hard not to imagine little fae dancing and plating in such a wonderful place. Chelsea Ebdon 2024

'Barking up the right tree' Nature Journal by Janet Kent 2024
Volunteers videos
Peter and Linda: Why you should volunteer at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve. National Volunteers Week 2022.
Audio Messages and memories
Through audio messages and memories, we celebrate the heart and soul of our volunteer community. Volunteer voice brings your experience to life, inspiring others and preserving the impact you’ve made.