Mallacoota local Bryce Watts-Parker took out the NextGen Landcare Award at the recent National Landcare Awards.
The NextGen Landcare Award recognises young environmental leaders (aged 18-35) who are making a real impact through hands-on Landcare projects and community engagement.
It celebrates those who inspire others to care for their local environment and lead positive change.
Bryce, a passionate environmentalist with a deep appreciation for East Gippsland’s unique flora and native reptiles, has become a well-known advocate for the region’s natural environment.
Following the devastating Black Summer Bushfires, Bryce played a pivotal role in conceiving and delivering the idea of the Mallacoota Endemic Garden and the local community nursery – two initiatives that have helped reconnect the community with nature and support ecological recovery.
“I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2025 NextGen Landcare Award, it was such a sensational night and to share it with so many incredible people was a privilege,” Bryce said.
“My family, friends and colleagues have played a massive role in the projects I have completed to date, and it would not have been possible without their support.”
“The Friends of Mallacoota have been critical partners in the delivery of the Endemic Garden and the community nursery, particularly Max Elliot who has been my partner in crime working to protect flora within our community,” added Bryce.
East Gippsland Catchment Management’s chief executive officer, Bec Hemming said “Bryce contributes to these initiatives in his own time, driven purely by his passion for the natural environment. He is also a highly valued colleague at the CMA, where he works closely with landholders on environmental and river health projects.
“Bryce plays a key role in delivering the CMA’s school and community engagement activities, including the popular Catchment Connections school program”.
“Bryce has achieved so much in the fire recovery of Far East Victoria and inspired so many to learn about bushfire recovery and the importance of protecting threatened plant species.”
“We are very proud of our colleague and extremely happy that he has won this prestigious award and at such a young age,” Bec said.
