Maree Scale is a Riddells Creek resident and a graduate of the Nature Stewards Program, which introduces participants to Victoria’s dynamic ecosystem and equips them with the knowledge to build a more sustainable future. She spoke with Oliver Lees.
What is your connection to Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges?
I’ve been a lucky resident of Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges for almost 40 years. I grew up in various places around Victoria because my family moved for dad’s work. My ancestors were from Lancefield, Romsey and surrounds.
My career in teaching also took me to a number of areas, but my longest appointment was at Sunbury West Primary School.
I’ve been a member of the Greening of Riddell environment group for close to 20 years now and plan to continue this involvement.
What can you tell me about the Nature Stewards Program?
The experience included 10 sessions and fantastic and informative field trips to places within Hume, Melton and Macedon Ranges shire. Ten people were chosen from each council area to learn more about Victoria’s environment and develop techniques to become a better volunteer. The focus on recognition of Indigenous culture was appreciated by everyone.
The program manages to traverse all levels of knowledge with endless opportunities for extension of any or all of the focus areas, with numerous websites to explore. The high quality presenters were all experts in their field and engrossing to listen to and learn from.
Why did you decide to get involved in the program in the first place?
I wanted to be involved because I love nature and being part of it and wanted to extend my knowledge and understanding of the connectedness of everything in our environment.
I also want to pass on this learning to my grandchildren, as they are our future ‘Nature Stewards’. We need them to care for our land and nature. It is important to me that they understand the true history of our First Nations people and the skilful ways they connected with nature and cared for it over many thousands of years. It is heartening to know that our Macedon Ranges shire employs Indigenous leaders to teach more sustainable fire management practices.
What are some of your favourite experiences from the program?
I have been interested in fungi for a while now but was excited at the chance to find out more. My visits exploring and photographing different fungi in various locations was fantastic.
Whenever I walk now, I’m aware that there is an incredible fungi underworld that we can’t see but is actively contributing to the ecosystem and that the parts we see above ground are the ‘fruits’ of the fungi.
One of our field trips was to Bald Hill Reserve near Kyneton. The Nature Stewards participants learned about soil testing as well as other geology aspects. I feel very fortunate to have so many special places to explore and appreciate in the Macedon Ranges.
