23/03/2022
After much procrastination … Its time
It is with some sadness but without regret that I must announce that I have decided to close Warburton Habitat Tree and the Indoor Forest.
I began this incredible environment education journey in October 2011. I moved into the Waterwheel Building in the main street of the historic township of Warburton. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect location for my new venture. I was directly across the road from the Yarra River, surrounded by unique aquatic and forest ecosystems and an abundance of native wildlife species.
The last 10+ years with Warburton Habitat Tree have been one of the most rewarding times of my career and something that I am very proud of. Doing something that I love, raising ecological awareness and understanding to student groups has been an absolute joy. It has always been the children, their curiosity, energy, enthusiasm, wonderment and excitement have been my constant inspiration.
I have also had the pleasure of sharing nature, stories and laughs with some wonderful community groups such as scouts, car clubs, bush walking groups, probus. It has been extremely special to have had the opportunity to work with all ages. Nature does not discriminate and has a way of inspiring respect, connection and imagination in all of us.
The Indoor Forest has been such an amazing resource and has been loved by so many, most of all by me. I will miss this special place dearly. Thank you to the taxi animals that I am so grateful for. They have supported our programs and field trips providing a close up educational opportunity to connect visitors to our incredibly unique native wildlife species, their natural habitats and conservation.
I have met and worked with many amazing people, educators, teachers, local business, passionate individuals, community groups and volunteers. Speaking of volunteers – these people are angels. They share their time, passion, historical knowledge and love of community to support local business, the environment and tourism. You all rock! I also want to thank the Upper Yarra Community Enterprise (Bendigo Bank) for always being a supportive landlord, especially over these last two difficult years.
What’s next? I have had some ideas of reinventing Warburton Habitat Tree but need some time to clear my head and decide what things may or could look like in the future. I also thought I might keep this fb page going to share about local wildlife and their habitats. I will continue to work with Friends of the Leadbeater’s Possum as I have for 11 or 12 years now! I will continue to be inspired by nature and look forward to the next part of my journey. Thank you kindly.
Love Kim
