By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
For over 40 years, Elizabeth Conolly has been a passionate environmental volunteer, dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of Selby and the surrounding areas in the Dandenong Ranges.
Alongside her late partner, environmental activist and botanist Darcy Duggan, Elizabeth has played a pivotal role in restoring local bushland, habitat corridors, and creekside reserves.
Darcy was a major inspiration for Elizabeth’s deep commitment to conservation. His tireless work and knowledge of native flora sparked her own passion for protecting the land.
“Darcy was a great teacher, he showed me the importance of caring for our local ecosystems, and I’ve continued that work in his honour,” she said.
After Darcy’s passing over four years ago, Elizabeth has carried on the conservation efforts they both believed in. She has organised regular volunteer working bees across Selby, bringing together groups of locals to weed bushland sites and plant native species.
These efforts are part of a larger mission to preserve pockets of indigenous bushland in the area and protect the Dandenong Ranges’ unique biodiversity.
One of her key projects is the Minak Reserve in Selby, where Elizabeth and a team of volunteers are working to create a sensory and educational walk through the reserve. The project aims to offer both locals and visitors an opportunity to connect with nature while learning about the area’s native plants and wildlife.
“It’s so rewarding to see how people respond to the environment here – it’s about fostering a deeper understanding of our local ecosystems,” she said.
Elizabeth’s dedication goes beyond just Minak Reserve. She is also involved in the Monbulk Creek BioLink reserves, working alongside local conservation groups to maintain wildlife corridors that support the region’s native species.
“There’s a strong community of volunteers here in Selby and beyond,” she said.
“I’m always learning from others, and together, we’re making a real difference.”
The work is far from easy, but Elizabeth finds great satisfaction in it.
“It’s amazing what a group of volunteers can achieve. Whether it’s weeding or planting, every little bit helps. We need more people to join in,” she said,
“Volunteering isn’t just about the work; it’s about connecting with like-minded people who care about the future of our environment.”
In addition to her hands-on work, Elizabeth highlights the importance of educational initiatives like the Habitat Management course, which has been supported by the Shire of Yarra Ranges for nearly 40 years.
This course helps equip volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed for environmental conservation, and two spots are available each year for volunteers to attend.
Elizabeth said she’s thankful for the support of local agencies such as the Shire of Yarra Ranges, Melbourne Water, and Parks Victoria, who provide essential funding and resources for the conservation work in Selby and the broader Dandenong Ranges.
She’s grateful for the valuable contribution of local conservation groups, including the Southern Dandenongs Landcare Group, which helps coordinate grants and protect the integrity of local bushland.
As climate change continues to impact ecosystems around the world, Elizabeth’s work has never been more important.
“We need to ensure that future generations can experience the same pristine natural environments we have today,” she said.
“It’s up to all of us to care for our local landscapes.”
Elizabeth’s efforts in Selby are a testament to the power of community action and the ongoing commitment of volunteers who are helping to protect the Dandenong Ranges for future generations.
“The environment needs us now more than ever,” she said. “Your time, no matter how small, can make a big difference,” Elizabeth said.
