By Callum Ludwig
Upper Yarra residents Mick Corrie and David Ferrier have received Certificates of Recognition at the Yarra Ranges council 2022 Australia Day awards.
Mr Corrie from Millgrove has shown a passion and love for the Yarra Ranges, particularly his home town, reflecting how beautiful the enviornment can be.
He is regularly seen donating his own time to cleaning, mowing, and planting around the Millgrove traffic lights and picnic area, helping to create the beautiful look and feel of the Upper Yarra area for visitors and community members alike.
He is the picture of community spirit, inspiring others with his willingness to lend a hand to help the environment and support his town.
Mayor Jim Child commended Mr Corrie’s selflessness, doing what he does simply for the benefit of helping out.
“There are wonderful people throughout the region who regularly donate their time, seeking no reward or recognition,” Mayor Child said.
David Ferrier from Wandin North was also recognised for being a beacon of leadership, knowledge and support for many during the June 2021 storms.
A trained arborist, David’s passion for reusing and making the most out of fallen timber has seen him educate others about timber’s importance.
In the aftermath of the storms, David started an initiative called ‘Treasuring Our Trees’, to ‘log’ a database on the fallen trees to inform the property owners about what came of the timber after processing.
This is important for residents with emotional ties and history to the vegetation on their property and will allow them to know their loss would go towards a good cause.
Mr Ferrier said the project has ambitions of working with 20 plus primary schools and other community groups, believing the name ‘Treasuring Our Trees’ speaks for itself.
“That’s why we call our group Treasuring our Trees, because we are absolutely determined to treasure them and give them a second life,” Mr Ferrier said.
It is this consideration for what is significant to the members of his community which is remarkable about Mr Ferrier, and why he deserves this recognition.
