The Orange Field Naturalist and Conservation Society has inducted Col Bower as one of their latest life members.
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Dr Bower has been a member since 1980 when he moved to Orange to work at the Department of Agriculture as an entomologist.
The society hosts talks and excursions and shares the district’s natural history as well encouraging an appreciation of native flora.
“The aims are both education and conservation, to help understand what’s important locally and helping preserve it for future generations,” Dr Bower said.
He said some of the best examples of native bush land could be found at Mullions Range and Mount Canobolas.
Dr Bower said one his favourite spots was Lapstone Hill, west of Mt Canobolas because “there’s quite a few rare plants that are hard to find in this part of the world”.
During the society’s meeting in July, president Geoff Selwood presented Dr Bower with life membership, as well as former Orange residents including founding president Chris Pratten OAM and member Jennifer Kenna with the accolade.
“The society has been active in Orange for more than four decades and recently instigated the category of honorary life membership to recognise the significant contributions made by its most outstanding members,” Mr Selwood said.
“The society owes its achievements and strength in no small part to the foresight and conviction of its past leaders.
“Chris and Jennifer have moved away from Orange, but will undoubtedly be remembered by many of our residents.”
Dr Bower said the recognition came “out of the blue”.
“It’s nice to have that bit of recognition, even though the majority of my contribution was 20 years ago,” Dr Bower said.
“I appreciate the recognition from the society.”
The society meets on the second Thursday of each month from February to November.
More information is available from www.orangefieldnats.com