Category: Environment
Recipient: Waltraud Pix
Background
Waltraud Pix convenes the Friends of Mount Majura (FoMM) parkcare group, one of the most active landcare groups in the ACT. FoMM provides a range of on-ground project work and educational activities to preserve the mountain and benefit the broader ACT community.
Scope of Work
As convener, Waltraud organises all FoMM activities, including a monthly woody weed party, native seed collection, an extensive re-vegetation program and rabbit warren mapping. Such projects require extensive planning and promotion to obtain funding, attract volunteers, engage stakeholders and ensure sound environmental outcomes.
FoMM’s work extends beyond the mountain itself through numerous training and education events, such as last year’s Hilltop to Backfence lecture series (run with a small grant from the ACT Government), community walks and information sessions. In addition to her work with FoMM, Waltraud is involved in other environmental advocacy activities in the ACT, such as community input to the proposed Majura Parkway.
Impact on the Community
Waltraud’s work provides environmental and social benefits to the ACT community and she is an inspiration to the broader landcare and parkcare movements. Importantly, her commitment gives members of the community the information and opportunities needed to contribute to debates on key environmental issues and preserves both the aesthetic and recreational value of Mount Majura.
Time Dedicated
Waltraud spends an average of 35 hours per week on convening FoMM, which she balances with her other volunteer commitments to the North Canberra Community Council, the Hackett Community Association and the Hackett Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.
Effort Required
Waltraud expends considerable effort on both the practical and administrative aspects of FoMM activities, which range from plant-care to arranging funding, coordinating volunteers and event promotion.