The Kedron Brook Catchment Branch recently said goodbye to a cherished friend and ally, Anna Bourke, who served as our Brisbane City Council (BCC) Creek Catchment Officer since 2010! Anna’s unwavering support has left an indelible mark on our efforts to protect and restore Kedron Brook, and as she moves on to new adventures, we extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes. Below, we share her reflections from her final Brisbane City Council “This Week by Creek” in February 2025 edition, a fitting tribute to her remarkable journey.
Anna’s Story: From Brisbane to Brook
Anna’s connection to Brisbane’s waterways began in 2008 when she arrived to pursue her Master’s degree. On her very first day, she landed a part-time role Oxley Creek Catchment Association (OCCA) as CreekWATCH Coordinator. There, she immersed herself in environmental stewardship, battling weeds and planting trees alongside OCCA’s biodiversity team through Brisbane’s steamy summers. That experience sparked a passion that would shape her career—and our catchment—for years to come.
On January 18, 2010, Anna joined Brisbane City Council, beginning a 15-year tenure supporting catchment groups across city. As a Creek Ranger, she quickly became a vital partner to Kedron Brook Catchment Branch. From uncovering squirrel gliders in our urban wilds to inspiring school children hands-on learning, Anna brought energy and expertise to our mission. She was a steadfast supporter of our Habitat Brisbane groups—think Sparkes Hill, Gilbert Road, and Kalinga Park—helping us transform weed-choked banks into thriving native habitats.
Life brought changes, including maternity leave birth of her first child, but Anna returned to a reimagined role, continuing to champion groups like Cubberla-Witton Catchments Network, Kholo Creek Catchment Group and Save Our Waterways Now. Her highlights include launching Student Catchment Immersion program, nurturing Dillingen Street Park’s progress, and co-founding Kholo Creek Catchment Group—all moments that echo her dedication to community and nature.
A New Chapter in Coffs Harbour
Now, Anna is turning her focus to Coffs Harbour, her childhood home, where she’ll work to improve health of Hearnes Lake—a waterway close to her heart. As she wrote, “I carry me all lessons and experiences from Brisbane,” a testament to deep impact this city, and our catchment, had on her life. We have no doubt she’ll bring same passion and skill to her new role, leaving Hearnes Lake better for it.
A Huge Thank You
Anna’s departure is bittersweet, but her legacy lives on in every tree planted, every weed pulled and every student inspired along Kedron Brook. On behalf of Kedron Brook Catchment Branch, our volunteers, and broader Creek Catchment community, we offer our immense gratitude for her years of service. Her collaborative spirit and hands-on support—from guiding bushcare efforts to celebrating our biodiversity wins—have made our catchment stronger and greener.
As Anna bids farewell, she leaves us her own words: “Thank you for an unforgettable journey.” We echo that sentiment back to her—thank you, Anna, and all best in Coffs Harbour!
