THE PLACES AND ANIMALS THAT SHAPE US

It’s been over 14 years since Darren Grover first joined WWF‑Australia. These days, Darren’s role focuses on thriving biodiversity as a Principal Advisor – guiding conservation work that brings people, wildlife and nature together. Over the years, he has helped shape meaningful conservation outcomes, always grounded in listening to people’s stories, walking alongside them in their love for nature and supporting them in creating lasting legacies for the wildlife and places we all love. Here, Darren shares why nature means so much to him. His story is a beautiful reminder that each of us carries cherished memories in nature that deserve to be shared and honoured. Many people choose to do this through a Gift in their Will, ensuring the world they love continues to thrive long into the future. We hope Darren’s story inspires you to reflect on your own connection to nature and perhaps even share it with us.

The places and animals that shape us

Have you ever felt the calm of the bush or the thrill of spotting a local animal in their forest home? I’ve always had a deep connection to the bush; it’s where I feel at home, especially in forests and woodlands.

Growing up north of Brisbane, I was lucky to live in a semi-rural area where the bush was part of everyday life. Koalas were regular visitors to the trees in our yard, and the landscape was alive with wildlife. Spotting a koala in the wild always takes me back to those precious childhood memories. I imagine you probably have some special memories of nature too—perhaps the sound of a kookaburra’s laugh, your first bushwalk, or swinging from the backyard tree branch. How lucky we are to have nature all around us. I was always taught that, whenever possible, the bush should be preserved and cared for. Not just for its beauty, but for the vital role it plays in creating habitats for wildlife and as a natural safeguard for slopes and riverbanks. Sadly, though, you and I have witnessed nature loss. As the human world evolves, so too does its impact on nature. As development continued around my childhood home, more and more bush was cleared, and koala habitat disappeared. It was heartbreaking to see the koalas go; what was once common became rare. We were lucky to share our homes with such iconic animals, yet too few people realised what was slipping away until it was gone. As I got older, I learned about bush tucker and bush medicine, and discovered that it’s often the smaller plants, not the tallest trees, that provide these vital services. There’s wisdom in the way Country provides for us, if we take the time to notice. I now live near the towering mountain ash forests of the Yarra Ranges, northeast of Melbourne. These great forests assume a cathedral-like form as the tall trees tower above me. Quiet, graceful, calm. On the ground, and in the undergrowth, small birds flit to and fro, and if I'm lucky, I might catch a glimpse of a lizard or a small mammal.

We are all linked to nature. Even those of us living in cities—through the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe. Even as I write this, I can feel the cool breeze through my window and hear the leaves outside, gently swaying. Gentle bird song in the distance. Koalas (kuburr), wombats (warin), lyrebirds (bullen bullen) and platypus (waterang) hold special meaning to me, and I’m so grateful to live alongside these remarkable animals that are now sadly becoming so rare.

Is there an animal that holds a special place in your heart? Or perhaps you have a meaningful place or a precious memory in nature? Today, I see the challenges, but I choose to be hopeful. Our shared mission to regenerate nature is diverse and ambitious. Your help ensures the protection and restoration of forests and oceans, improves the conservation status of land and marine life, supports Indigenous and local communities, advocates for an end to native forest logging, and fights for a transition to renewable energy. To name a few! Projects like the Right Way Fire in the Kimberley—one of my favourites—combine Western science with thousands of years of Traditional land management. While many species of our unique Australian wildlife are under threat or even facing extinction, there is hope. When we care for Country and connect with culture, nature responds. Like the increasing populations of the Gouldian finch in the Kimberley, in response to the return of Traditional burning practices. These are the kinds of solutions that work for people and nature, honouring both knowledge and Country. What makes these projects effective is new, integrated approaches that you’re enabling—combining culture and inclusivity with conservation, and empowering Indigenous communities and ranger groups to play an active role. When nature thrives, so do we. So, let’s continue to share in its beauty—perhaps through bushwalking, spending time outdoors, or simply being present. The threats facing nature affect us all, but what gives me hope is the love Australians like you have for unique wildlife and landscapes. When we know the challenges and know what we can do to help, I believe you and I can help turn things around. After over 14 years at WWF-Australia, I still find the work rewarding. I’m inspired by the opportunity to work with great people like you to solve the environmental issues we face. My hope is that you’ll take a moment to reflect on your connection to nature and think about the future you want to see—one where your loved ones can spot a koala up in a tree or a lyrebird moving near your feet.

I’d love to know, what is your connection to Country? And how will you care for it? The future we choose together is the one our loved ones will walk in.

Please email us at giftsinwills@wwf.org.au to share what nature means to you, the memories you carry, and—if you feel inspired—your own story. Your experiences help others feel connected, and we’d be honoured to share them. With my deepest thanks,

Darren

If Darren’s story has inspired you to reflect on your own connection to nature, you may also like to learn how a Gift in your Will can help protect wildlife and habitats for generations to come.

Ready to take the next step and shape the future of the places you love? You can contact us for more information.