In the past seven years he reckons he has planted 50,000 in the region – with the help of volunteers, of course.

Mr Josh has spent those seven years working as the Bathurst community 

environmental engagement officer, increasing volunteer numbers every year as people are inspired by his enthusiasm. 

Through his programs, tens of thousands of native trees, shrubs and grasses have been planted at sites including the Macquarie River, urban creeks and woodland areas. 

Wayne Feebrey of Greening Bathurst presented Mr Josh with his award on Australia Day. 

The Greening Bathurst – Jo Ross Memorial Award is presented to an individual, group or institution for significantly improving the local environment.

“Bill’s enthusiasm and knowledge of native plants is first rate and he is always happy to share this knowledge with volunteers of all ages and walks of life,” Mr Feebrey said.

“Excellent examples of Bill’s volunteers’ work can be seen at areas such as Raglan Creek, Ranken’s Bridge Park and Browning Street Reserve.

“He consistently goes above and beyond his role to assist people to become involved in the rehabilitation of the local environment.” 

Mr Josh was tickled pink.

“My passion is nature,” he said.

“I grew up at a time when willows and blackberries were overtaking the creeks to the extent where you couldn’t even get to the water’s edge.”

Mr Josh said he started out as a volunteer with Australian Conservation Volunteers, taking backpackers out into the bush to do volunteer work. Later, he was given the opportunity to take on the supervisor’s job. 

His current role has gone from strength to strength.

“On one occasion we planted more than 4000 trees in five days,” he said.

“Australian trees are like Australian people – they’re hard to get to know, but once you do get to know them they’re fantastic.”

Mr Josh said one of the highlights of his job has been working with Dave Noble, who discovered the Wollemi Pine in 1994. 

“That was just pure fun,” he said.

The Jo Ross Memorial Award is made in memory of Jo Ross, a councillor between 1992 and 1996 who was a natural environmentalist.