Southern New England Landcare Ltd has announced Bryan Johnston of Armidale as the recipient of the 2025 John Winter-Irving Bequest, recognising his significant contributions to sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, and community leadership.
“I’m delighted with the board’s choice of Bryan Johnston for the John Winter-Irving Bequest,” said Mrs Ona Winter-Irving.
“I offer him my heartiest congratulations and hope that he is able to do a course or follow a passion this year with the help of the bequest – he is such a deserving recipient.”
Mr Johnston’s longstanding involvement in Landcare and the wider community has had a lasting impact, particularly through his leadership with the Armidale Urban Rivercare Group (AURG), where he has contributed to numerous successful restoration projects along the Dumaresq Creeklands.
He has represented AURG at the Southern New England Landcare level and has served on the organisation’s board since 2015.
In addition to his work with AURG, Mr Johnston has helped steward public lands across the Southern New England Landcare region, actively participating in Landcare-hosted training and strategic planning initiatives.
His leadership extends across several organisations, including:
- Chair of the Northern Inland Branch of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Regional Advisory Committee
- Board member of Bulagaranda (Mount Yarrowyck) Aboriginal Area
- Director at Quadrant Australia, an agritourism company
Mr Johnston said he was honoured to be recognised.
“I’m honoured to receive this bequest and deeply appreciate the opportunity it provides.”
“Landcare has always been about community, collaboration, and care for the land – values I hold close. I look forward to continuing this work and using the bequest to further my contribution,” he said.
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