Ocean Grove Coastcare (OGC) has celebrated 10 years.
OGC is an incorporated volunteer environmental group, established in 2010 by five enthusiastic young women keen to protect and enhance the natural values of the Ocean Grove coastal environment.
Jackie Scally is one of the founding members and said “connection” was what she was looking for when she moved to Ocean Grove a little over 10 years ago.
“I was 25, fresh out of an environmental science degree and lured to the coast for lifestyle and love,” she said.
“I was ready to get my hands dirty, learn more about the coastal environment and meet like-minded people.”
Shortly after moving here, Jackie met the regional coastcare facilitator who introduced her to a handful of other, similarly aged women who shared similar interests in environmental studies.
The women organised a movie night at Piping Hot and 80 people turned up. With that, OGC was born.
Since then, Ocean Grove Coastcare has established a strong presence in our local community, Jackie said.
“But our journey is one that has ebbed and flowed like that of many community volunteer groups,” she said.
“When I think about it, it’s a journey that can be likened to that of a migrating shearwater. There are times along the flight when resources are rich, the flock is united and collectively you sail ahead towards a single destination. At other times, energy is low. Resources are scarce, the flock is dispersed, and where you’re headed is not so clear.”
Jackie said the founding group of young women have just about all left Ocean Grove, “drawn across the country and globe for work, love and adventure”.
“And in 2017, we lost one of our dear friends, founding member and past president John O’Reilly,” she said.
“But onward we have continued, welcoming new members to the fold each bringing with them new energy, skills and ideas. The flock reunites and continues on.”
Jackie said she considers OGC a success.
“Our committee is made up of nine passionate, skilled and professional people,” she said.
“We have been successful in attracting funding from all levels of government and private enterprise to undertake countless tree planting, weed removal, beach clean-ups and education events, all of which attract a high level of interest from the local community.
“We continue to attract new members, each looking for their way to connect to people and places.”
OGC is holding its AGM on Tuesday November 19 via Zoom at 7pm.
Voice Nature Watch columnist Jen Carr is the guest speaker.
To attend, download the nomination form at oceangrovecoastcare.org.au and send it to oceangrovecoastcare@gmail.com prior to the meeting. New committee members are encouraged.
