Meet the team

Learn about the Understorey Network, including what we do, our team, organisations and more.

MEET THE TEAM

Julie Ayre

President and Public Officer

Julie became a volunteer with the Understorey Network after moving to Tasmania from Queensland. She looks forward to Mondays at the nursery, working with other volunteers doing everything from seed collection to selecting plants for various projects. Through her involvement in redeveloping the USN plant database, originally created 20 years ago, she has gained a deeper appreciation for propagation techniques. Her enjoyment of bushwalking has also grown as she has become familiar with more of Tasmania's native plants in the wild.

Wayne Goodwin

Senior Vice President

Since retiring Wayne has been actively involved with the Understorey Network. With a diverse background in both the private and public sectors, as well as experience as a sole trader, he brings a wealth of skills, knowledge and experience to the management committee. Wayne's lifelong interest in Tasmanian native plants and his long-standing association with the Tasmanian Bushland Garden have developed into a true passion through his involvement with the USN.

Anne Kelly

Secretary

Anne has always had a love for nature and believes in the importance of preserving Tasmania's natural environment. When the opportunity to become the secretary of the Understorey Network arose, she was happy to join a group of passionate and dedicated individuals committed to this cause. She greatly admires the work and achievements of the volunteers who make up the Understorey Network.

Tony Wise

Treasurer

Tony retired in 2001 after a career in the food industry in management and technical roles, before undertaking further studies and moving into commercial roles. He completed his full time working career as the business and financial manager for a Tasmanian engineering business. Since then he has undertaken a number of volunteering roles with a library, a Men's Shed and a sporting association as well as hosting a Guide Dog. He is active with wood working, home gardening and a myriad of other projects.

Mary McCulloch

Committee Member

Since retiring from the retail world, Mary has volunteered with Bushcare, Landcare, and the Still Gardening program. Her love of working with environmentally minded groups brought her to the Understorey Network. As she expands her knowledge of Tasmanian native plants, she also supports and coordinates up to 20 dedicated volunteers each week, helping them build confidence and grow their nursery skills. A talented cook, Mary also enjoys reading, bushwalking, and travel.

Cara McEwen

Committee Member

Cara is a lover of Tasmanian plants and wildlife. She has spent the last four years studying Wildlife, Conservation and Ecosystem Management and Horticulture. She also volunteers in the Bushcare and Landcare space. Cara’s first encounter with the Understory Network was during a TAFE field trip, where she felt inspired to get more involved and learn from the rich diversity of the volunteer community. She describes the time since starting as a beautiful journey.