Alan Gillanders has lived on the Atherton Tablelands since late 1976 and been a member of TREAT since its launch in 1982. His interest in natural history has been life long, having been encouraged by his parents and developed by knowledgeable mentors.
While earning his living as a teacher Alan engaged with natural history organisations both amateur and professional, leading to his being considered a ‘science nerd’ by many colleagues. For 20 years Alan was the operator guide of Alan’s Wildlife Tours. Alan is a national park volunteer since 1994 and is active in local conservation. In 2019 Savannah Guides recognised Alan’s knowledge and special skills by awarding him the title of Senior Savannah Guide. QPWS named Alan as Volunteer of the Year in 2016. Alan was presented with a Cassowary Award in 2011 for conservation and interpretation of the Wet Tropics.
After joining TREAT at its first public meeting Alan was elected to the committee at the initial AGM; staying on the committee until 1998. He has led various projects of revegetation, assisted in many aspects of the organisation’s work including education and acted as secretary for about a few years. He currently helps with seed collections and often has show and tell sessions during morning tea at the Friday working bees at the QPWS rainforest restoration nursery.
