'Angel of the Bush'
This seat (the original) was created and beautifully crafted by Peninsular Group of Sydney Woodturners Guild Inc. from a Eucalypt which grew across the road throughout Claire's life.
A plaque on the seat says "Claire Deane, Field Officer, NPWS, born 09/08/74, died 08/06/00 – Claire loved the bush and cared deeply for this small reserve in Coolabah Crescent, next door to her home of 25 years. Joining NPWS on Jan 23rd 2000 as a Bush Regenerator brought Claire much happiness. On 8th June 2000, along with three colleagues, Claire died whilst assisting NPWS with a hazard control burn at Mt Ku-Ring-Gai. She experienced joy and satisfaction caring for Australia’s wonderful bush and would want others to share the same positive experience. A beautiful person whose caring spirit will live forever in this lovely little bush sanctuary".
The seat is lovingly maintained by one of the volunteers. It is a pleasant place to sit and enjoy the peace of the Sanctuary and dream.
This seat (the original) was created and beautifully crafted by Peninsular Group of Sydney Woodturners Guild Inc. from a Eucalypt which grew across the road throughout Claire's life.
A plaque on the seat says "Claire Deane, Field Officer, NPWS, born 09/08/74, died 08/06/00 – Claire loved the bush and cared deeply for this small reserve in Coolabah Crescent, next door to her home of 25 years. Joining NPWS on Jan 23rd 2000 as a Bush Regenerator brought Claire much happiness. On 8th June 2000, along with three colleagues, Claire died whilst assisting NPWS with a hazard control burn at Mt Ku-Ring-Gai. She experienced joy and satisfaction caring for Australia’s wonderful bush and would want others to share the same positive experience. A beautiful person whose caring spirit will live forever in this lovely little bush sanctuary".
The seat is lovingly maintained by one of the volunteers. It is a pleasant place to sit and enjoy the peace of the Sanctuary and dream.
The original seat 2000
Despite all Bev's best efforts at stopping the rot, the memorial seat has been slowly deteriorating over the years, to the extent that she was worried it was no longer safe. She has generously donated a new seat in Claire's memory - undertaking all the organisation and arranging for it to be installed, along with new plaques and signs. It is very beautiful and, being made from tallowwood, this one should last for many years. We are indebted to Bev for her generosity.
Volunteers around the new seat with Bev centre, 29 Nov 2020
New Tallowwood seat installed May 2020
