Aidan O’Connor and Martha Farrell.
THE STORY
Meet Aidan and Martha, two representatives from a volunteer group that enhance, protect and preserve the unique Maharees sand dunes. For the last six years the Maharees Conservation Group has been researching nature-based solutions for dune management and engaging with a host of state agencies to raise awareness of the huge challenges coastal communities face along the West Coast. “Sand dunes are our only personal defence system protecting us from the rising sea level.”
Sand dunes are susceptible to natural erosion but this has been exacerbated by humans traversing on the dune, killing the Marram grasses that bind them together. “I don’t think anyone was planning on damaging the dunes, they were just having fun.”
These handsome dune systems provide an irreplaceable home for flora and fauna and act as a critical safety blanket that wraps around the coast, protecting the community from flooding. “We were up against a crisis, we had to do something.”
The conservation group is a collaboration of 60-plus people determined to preserve the dunes. They rally together to re-plant the coastal grasses and Aidan leads the charge by erecting fences that keep traffic off the dunes, helping the grasses recover and regrow. Another aim of the group is to generate a general understanding amongst the public that sand dunes are fragile and easily damaged. “Human behaviour can hinder or help our actions in protecting the system.”
The group has reverted what was once a carpark back into a healthy and thriving sand dune – rich in biodiversity, thick with Marram grasses and now fit to fight off flooding. And working with a clear purpose has had benefits beyond the environmental impact. “This group has changed my life. I didn’t think I could make a difference, but I can see that I am.”
THE WHY
This group has changed my life. I didn’t like living here before because I thought I couldn't do anything about it, but that all changed when I joined the group.
THE CHALLENGE
Before going on holiday, do a little bit of research on the area you are going to. Stick to the path, leave no trace, and still enjoy it.
THE HOPE
Being part of a diverse group of people with very different outlooks who have achieved something phenomenal together has given me hope.
THE RECOMMENDATION
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To find out more visit www.mahareesconservation.com or follow the group on Facebook - @Maharees Heritage and Conservation Group.