‘Cuppa and a chat’: connection at the heart of BushCare
“There’s always a good cuppa and a chat,” says Mary, smiling from her deck as birds flit through the trees she helped plant. “It’s an extension of the garden at home.”
In Mapleton, where the forest meets the community, a quiet transformation is taking place – led by local volunteers who care deeply about nature and each other.
Here you will find Spring Pastures Bushland Reserve, part of a vital forest corridor in the Maroochy Catchment that supports native wildlife including wallabies, possums, bandicoots, echidnas, turtles, and koalas.
And on the first Sunday of the month, from 8am to 10am, a team of BushCare locals – including Mary – gathers to care for the reserve. Their work always ends with something just as important: a cuppa and a chat.
Meet Mary: a local custodian of Spring Pastures Bushland Reserve
Mary’s property backs onto the reserve and she starts most mornings on her deck, watching birds’ flit through the trees she helped plant.
“I love Spring Pastures,” Mary said.
“It’s an absolute joy to sit and watch the birds playing in the garden – which neighbours the Reserve.
“We’ve seen whipbirds, catbirds, mistletoe birds, satin bowerbirds, king parrots, ducks, and even grebes on the dam.
“It’s amazing how much life has returned.”
Mary is a proud volunteer with the Spring Pastures BushCare Group. Their mission is simple but powerful: restore native vegetation, remove invasive weeds and bring life back to the land. And they’re succeeding.
“I volunteer because I want to live in a place that’s clean, diverse, protected, and safe,” Mary explains.
“Growing up in a country town, I learned early on that nothing happens unless people pitch in. We had to create our own fun and did that by working together.”
More than weeding: It’s connection and care
For Mary, BushCare is more than environmental stewardship – it’s about connection.
“I really enjoy being part of the Spring Pastures BushCare Group. I love the friendships, the shared vision we have for the reserve, and learning about different tree species and weeds.
“It’s also a great way to get to know the neighbours.
“I always feel good after spending time in nature.
“To stand among the trees we’ve planted and see how they’ve grown – it’s so rewarding.
“I planted those trees! The rewards far outweigh the effort.”
Local Division 10 Councillor David Law said Spring Pastures BushCare Group were a shining example of community spirit in action.
“Volunteers like Mary are helping to preserve our natural habitat while building strong, connected communities,” Cr Law said.
“I encourage anyone with a love of nature to get involved – you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve together.”
Come along if you love where you live…and a cuppa
The Spring Pastures BushCare Group meets on the first Sunday of each month, from 8am to 10am, at Spring Pastures Drive Bushland Reserve Network, Mapleton.
Or you could join a BushCare group in your local area. There are more than 30 that hold regular working bees across the Sunshine Coast. No experience is needed – just a love of nature and a willingness to lend a hand.
All tools and equipment are provided. Volunteers are asked to wear long sleeves, long pants, sturdy shoes, and bring a water bottle.
Whether you’re looking to meet new people, stay active, or give back to your community, a BushCare Group is ready to welcome you – with open arms and a hot cuppa.
Interested in joining?
Email bushcare@sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or search “bushcare” on Council’s website at sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au to learn more.
