World · East Asia & Pacific · 1 day ago
Older Australians volunteer to restore damaged natural habitats
Susan Downes, a retired doctor and former botanist, bought a 200-hectare farm near York in Western Australia after seeing its damaged bushland.
Grazing had left ancient trees on Mount Mackie, but much of the undergrowth was gone.
She began restoring the land with grants and help from the Friends of Mt Mackie volunteer group.
About 45,000 native seedlings have been planted, and 45 plant species have returned naturally.
The restoration covers 120 hectares, which Downes is placing under a conservation covenant to prevent future clearing.
She is part of a wider group of Australians who volunteer to protect nature; a 2026 Landcare Australia survey found that 80% of respondents were aged 55 or older.
The work gives volunteers a practical way to care for local environments, and Downes continues planting, weeding and managing the property.
Retired Australians are volunteering to restore damaged natural habitats, with older people making up most conservation volunteers.
Susan Downes, 76, has restored 120 hectares of her working farm near York, Western Australia.
About 45,000 native seedlings have been planted on her property, and 45 plant species have returned naturally.
Landcare Australia’s 2026 national survey found that 80% of respondents were aged 55 or over.
Landcare Australia chair Peter Garrett says conservation work can give people purpose and a chance to care for nature.
- Who
- Older Australians are prominent among conservation volunteers. The story features retired GP Susan Downes and Landcare Australia chair Peter Garrett.
- What
- Volunteers are restoring natural habitats. Downes has restored part of her farm near York.
- When
- The article was published on 10 October 2026. Downes began restoring the farm after buying it; the purchase date is not stated.
- Where
- Downes’s farm is near York, Western Australia. The article also mentions conservation volunteers across Australia.
- Why
- Conservation offers people a practical way to care for nature and can provide purpose in later life.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
I felt a great connection to the land
the backbone
a lot of purpose
She bought a 200-hectare property near York, Western Australia.
She began restoration work, starting with a local grant to control foxes and feral cats.
Downes was awarded 24,000 trees.
About 45,000 native seedlings have been planted, and 45 plant species have reappeared naturally.
- Downes’s age
- 76
- Farm restoration area
- 120 hectares
- Native seedlings planted
- About 45,000
- Plant species returned naturally
- 45
- Landcare Australia survey
- 80% of respondents were aged 55 or over
- Volunteer group
- Friends of Mt Mackie; about eight core members and more than 80 additional volunteers
Sources
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