54 years of reason

Why am I a Bush Carer in Moore Park?

By Doreen Woodard

There are 54 years of reasons that’s why. 

We bought our land in July 1949 and a hop step and jump across the dirt road and we were in the park. It was fenced (post and rail), and you entered by a turnstile or walked across the cattle grid.

I was impressed by its beauty, the smell of the bush especially wattles, and the gurgle of the creek as it made its way to the river.

I fell in love with it that day and still do today.

Over these years the park has been a place of enjoyment for all of the Woolards. As a family we have walked, guided, scouted, had picnics, played, and watched the stars at night. We have celebrated Guy Fawkes Night with neighbour families of Russell Terrace and we’ve seen sputniks flash across the sky. My two oldest were skinny dipped in the creek when they were but babes. I’ve seen its Catchment piped for development and I have seen it in flood.

It was the making of the freeway that did most damage because the bulldozers had no respect for any part of the park. Lagoons were trashed, the creek was turned and understorey lost - though that could have been done more thoughtfully. Now I am hoping I’ll live long enough to see my ribbon of red bloom once more.