Stuart Inchley, BioDiversity Legacy’s South Gippsland Biolink Coordinator, has lived a life deeply rooted in nature and environmental stewardship.

Growing up, his childhood was filled with camping holidays across Victoria’s national parks, instilling in him a profound appreciation for the natural world. Venturing into Far North Queensland and then Arnhemland as a young man, Stuart’s work with sustainable, off-grid systems and school teaching also left an indelible mark.

Here, in Australia?s tropical rainforests and savannas, he cultivated a deep connection to the land, its people, plants and animals and found within himself a drive to protect the natural world that he couldn?t seem to shake.

Returning south, Stuart discovered his own (temperate) rainforest idyll in the hills behind Foster in South Gippsland, a remnant gem full of trees standing tall among the bare paddocks and pine plantations. With his partner Victoria, Stuart acts as a full-time steward of the Tarwin River Forest.

Stuart’s passion for conservation is driven by a desire to look after the ancient landscapes he lives in and loves. He tackles challenges head-on, from pest control to species ID to preserving native habitats. His forest sanctuary serves as a testament to his dedication, a haven for biodiversity amid encroaching threats.

Stuart’s focus extends beyond the borders of his property and, through BioDiversity Legacy, he is now able to collaborate with local communities, councils and environmental groups to enact real change. Through initiatives like iNaturalist and his work with networks like the Prom Coast Biolink collective, he empowers others to become custodians of their natural heritage.

For Stuart, BioDiversity Legacy is more than an organisation?it’s a platform for supporting good people doing good things.