Meet Doreen

For Doreen, our Barossa Bushgardens Natural Resource Centre Coordinator, the role of managing and maintaining the seven-hectare native display gardens and environmental education is made all the more enjoyable with the support of like-minded people.

"Having a great team around you and being supported by the other departments within council makes my job amazing," she says.

"Here at the Barossa Bushgardens we are a great team with our direct line manager being super supportive. Going further up, management is challenging our thinking in a good way, broadening our horizon and pushing us to learn and adapt."

As part of her job, Doreen delivers workshops addressing environmental and sustainability topics. She also works with a variety of stakeholders, including schools, landholders, other environmental organisations, Aboriginal nations, businesses, across councils and Landscape Boards.

And together with the Nursery Coordinator, she helps manage around 40 volunteers whom she enjoys interacting with and working alongside.

They add to the sense of community Doreen enjoys at her workplace.

"I find it very important to listen to their ideas and make sure they are involved in any new developments and changes. Our teams are very passionate and having them involved ensures they are dedicated and take ownership.

"Often, we have visiting groups taking garden tours or Traditional Uses Trail tours, learning about edible plants and their medicinal uses and I am glad I have some fantastic tour guides."

The development of the Food for Soul Community Garden and the activities it offers for people living with disabilities and dementia, and hosting Barossa Bushgardens Bush School sessions during the holidays are two of Doreen's proudest career moments.

Both are a reflection of the collaborative spirit and community relationships built as a result of a positive, inclusive work environment.