Ferny Creek resident, Coen Pearson has already established himself as a leader in environmental conservation, earning Yarra Ranges Council’s Young Environmental Achiever of the Year award.
The 13 year-old has been an advocate for nature for many years now, he has been a Platypus Education Group ambassador for more than five years, contributed to clean-ups at Belgrave’s main carpark, participated in a variety of nature programs and surveys, and he continues to expand his understanding of the environment while educating other youths along the way.
He is also an active member of the Friends of Hughes Creek, where he volunteers in forest maintenance through weeding and planting, and conducts citizen science bird surveys, and submits his observations to various research platforms.
“We’ve always gone camping, and I’ve been on lots of nature adventures in the Dandenong Ranges,” Coen said.
“I joined Friends of Hughes Sassafras, which was inspiring, and I really got into plants, on a holiday to Wilson’s Prom, I discovered bird checklists and loved trying to tick off all the birds, my grandfather also taught me more about listening to them, and it just grew from there.”
Coen’s efforts are already contributing to scientific research.
“It’s really cool that anyone can submit observations and help researchers,” he said.
“I found out that 86 of my bird surveys were used in Atlas Trends data, which was pretty cool.”
Coen’s commitment to inspiring others extends beyond his own work, he co-founded NextGen Hills Naturalists, a podcast and newsletter initiative based in the Dandenong Ranges, with his friend Eve.
“Eve came up with the idea of doing a newsletter, and I was like, ‘Oh, that’s awesome. We should do a podcast as well.’ So we hooked up a few guests and started writing stuff,” he said.
“Our first guest was Sue Bendall from the Friends of the Helmeted Honey-eater, and our first newsletter focused on that species. I hope young people see how beautiful the area is, learn about different species, and feel inspired to protect nature.”
NextGen Hills Naturalists focuses on raising awareness about local wildlife, with each episode highlighting a specific species through fun facts, iNaturalist guides, photos, and stories designed to engage young people and the wider community.
Coen’s mother, Claire Jennings, said that from an early age, even in kindergarten, he had been involved in projects raising awareness about recycling and reuse.
“Coen has always been passionate about doing the right thing for the environment, even influencing our family’s weekly shopping choices, we are proud his citizen science work is being recognised,” Ms Jennings said.
“He has the potential to become a positive role model for other young people.”
Living his values in everyday life, Coen carefully researches the products and brands he supports, ensuring they align with ethical and sustainable practices.
He describes this approach as a responsibility, “even if it’s just making the right choices and thinking about the impact on people, animals, and the environment…you’ve got to try and make those decisions.”
When asked about receiving the award, Coen said he was surprised.
“I didn’t know I was nominated, so it was a surprise, but it definitely motivates me to keep going and do even more work,” the 13-year-old said.
Looking ahead, he is eager to continue growing NextGen Hills Naturalists, welcoming new guests to the podcast and educating the community about local wildlife and environmental conservation.
