It was wonderful to catch up with Les Pearson at our regional Landcare Muster last month. Les made a huge contribution to Hunter Region Landcare Network between 2011 and 2024, and his skills and good humour are still greatly missed. Les joined HRLN by a different route than most. He had just created a comprehensive property plan for St Phillip’s Christian College near Cessnock and was asked by the HRLN committee to provide a tour of the site. Les put his teaching skills to good use and gave us an engaging guided tour, pointing out the various aspects of the plans. He was asked to join the network soon after and was a dedicated and tireless member of the regional committee for the next thirteen years.
From 2012 Les coordinated the River Red Gum Project, raising the profile of this iconic species throughout the Hunter. He was Deputy Chair in 2016 and Chair from 2018 to 2020, undertaking his duties with aplomb. During this time, he also served with Landcare NSW and the National Landcare Network. Les collated many of HRLN’s Annual Reports, where his experience in documenting property plans made for a comprehensive summary of the year’s activities.
Les (second from right) with HRLN committee and staff members visiting a Landcare site at Lake Liddell, 2024.
When the NSW State Government announced record funding would be available for Landcare through the Landcare Enabling Program, Les worked tirelessly with the committee to ensure that HRLN was well placed and well prepared to ensure the best possible outcomes for the opportunities.
Les supported groups on the ground including his role as an ex-officio member of Lake Liddell Recreation Area Reserve Land Manager as the HRLN representative. He showed a keen interest in this role and because of his experience, undertook to prepare a property plan for the Land Manager.
Les receiving his Life Membership of HRLN from Stephen Thatcher (Vice-President) in September 2024, for outstanding contribution to the organisation. Also pictured, Balaji Seshadri (President) and Lyn Morris (Secretary/Treasurer).
Looking back, it is clear to see that Les helped to prepare HRLN for future success with his keen attention to detail and his passionate vision for the power of Landcare. He has left a wonderful Landcare legacy, strengthening the Network’s position for the benefit of current and future Landcarers. Thank you again, Les.