Today I acknowledge Kevin McCusker. As a deputy captain for the NSW RFS, a botanist and a community volunteer, Kevin has long been a lover and protector of the natural environment. Living with his wife on their bush block in Dargan on the edge of the Blue Mountains, Kevin understands the joy and responsibility of living safely in the bush. From managing vegetation and garden design to identifying and protecting native animals, Kevin has gathered his knowledge and insights in his new book Killibinbin, Our Mountain Paradise: A guide to living in our bush.  

Kevin's generosity of spirit and dedication to his community shone through when he rallied with adjacent bush communities to form the Association of Bell Clarence Dargan Incorporated. The ABCD Inc, as it is known, came together following the Black Summer bushfires of 2019-20. Together, they achieved the replacement of the Clarence community hall, which had been destroyed by fire. That hall is a shining symbol of strength and resilience. 

I thank Kevin for his leadership, for sharing his knowledge and for his stewardship of the environment.