Taylor Park stalwart named a Local Legend

Friends of Taylor Park coordinator Ian Convery has been named the Surf Coast's latest Local Legend. Photo: VINNIE VAN OORSCHOT

RETIRED accountant and coordinator of Torquay community group Friends of Taylor Park, Ian Convery, has been honoured by the Surf Coast Shire as its latest Local Legend.

Friends of Taylor Park was once made up of just three volunteers when Ian joined the group four years ago. It now has about 30 regular active members and close to 700 Facebook followers keeping watch on the group’s efforts.

Working bees routinely attract 15 to 20 volunteers.

“We just keep chipping away at the park, planting, weeding, just gradually improving it,” Mr Convery said.

“I love that it’s a native park right in the centre of Torquay.

“I’ve been connected with Torquay for more than 50 years and have seen the population growth, this is a little protected pocket, it’s got history about it, it’s got native environment and birdlife, and right in the centre of town.

“It’s like our Hyde Park in the centre of Torquay and it must be kept for future generations.”

Mr Convery took over the leadership of the group when illness prevented existing long-time co-ordinator Eion Beaton from continuing in the role.

“I was motivated, but also there wasn’t anybody else who was going to take it on,” he said.

“I couldn’t see it go by the wayside.”

Mr Convery has also led the group to re-establishing a working relationship with park manager Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, while nurturing working partnerships with Torquay Lions Club, and Men’s Shed members.

A recent collaboration included receiving 20 bird and micro-bat nesting boxes made for the park in a partnership with the Surf Coast Secondary College, funded by the Torquay Lions Club.

Mr Convery said he was proud to continue the group’s work and grateful for all of the volunteers that eagerly put time and effort into helping the park.

The volunteers often have people saying to them ‘We really appreciate what you are doing’.

“It means a lot to us, it definitely does.”

For more information on Friends of Taylor Park, head to facebook.com/friendsoftaylorpark