World Environment Day

Once we start to think about the kind of world we are leaving to future generations, we look at things differently; we realize that the world is a gift which we have freely received and must share with others…the world we have received also belongs to those who will follow us.”

(Francis, 2015, #159)

For some time now, we have considered options regarding the bushland we own at Bolwarra, near Portland. This property was purchased by Loreto in 1961 with the intention of building a boarding school as the then current school site was under threat from port development. Over the years, a significant part of the property was sold as farmland, and the rest remained as bushland.

The local community is strongly committed to this property remaining a bushland reserve as it has environmental significance and is home to endangered flora and fauna. Robert Wright has been negotiating on our behalf with a local community group that has actively cared for the land over several years and is prepared to take ongoing responsibility for the maintenance and protection of the site. We intend to enter into a long-term lease with the local community, including members of the local Indigenous community, under the following conditions: that it remains a bushland reserve with the Great South West Walk track continuing to go through it; that there be a permanent memorial on the land recognising the traditional owners and the subsequent gift of the land by the Loreto Sisters and that it be named in recognition of the nearly 140 years of service by the Loreto Sisters in Portland.

It is very fitting that we make this decision during our celebration of the Teresa Ball Bicentenary in response to the request from the General Leadership Team to commit to an environmental project and a 7-year Laudato Si’ Action Plan. The preservation of this important piece of environmentally significant bushland is one small step in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss while creating ecological sustainability.

We are very grateful to Robert, who has assisted us with this project for many years, negotiating with the local community on our behalf to create the best outcome for all concerned. Many will also know Geraldine Ryan, who continues to work with this local community group to protect and care for the bushland. Our wider circle of friends is alive and active in so many ways!

Author: Sr Wendy Hildebrand ibvm

Feature image: Portland Bushland Bolwarra