Ian Roberts and Dean Nicolle have written an incredible book. Through scoping conversations with adjacent municipalities, they launched the Dean Nicolle Eucalypt Walk in Blyth along a former rail corridor, officially opening it last August. Home to over 2000 Australian plant species, this 4.4-kilometre trail showcases native flora in full bloom. Among them, you’ll find 300 cultivated varieties of eucalypt, most of which are rarely grown outside of SA. From the trio’s perspective, the project is an extension of the duo’s long-time love of eucalypts, rooted in their respective childhood experiences.
Ian Roberts, noted artist, eucalypt expert, and rail trail advocate, regularly guides groups along the new interpretive walk. It’s clear his passion for these native trees runs deep, as he explains what makes the variety of species along the trail so unique. The walk through the eucalypt walk isn’t just about where you physically walk. It is a testament to the deep friendship that Roberts and Nicolle, who came together in 1995 over their mutual love for this unusual flora.
A Lifelong Passion for Eucalypts
Roberts and Nicolle conceived the Dean Nicolle Eucalypt Walk with the idea of recreating their childhood experiences. Their memories from childhood guided the vision for this unique project. Both men developed a passion for eucalyptus as children, an interest which would go on to define their lives and careers. Roberts had first met Nicolle in 1995, when he was given seeds from Nicolle’s collection. He then grew eucalypts on his own property near Clare, between 1995 and 1999.
Nicolle is an inspiring public health scientist, fighting a global epidemic of climate change and ecosystem collapse. She has been key in providing Roberts access to his remarkable collection of eucalypt seeds, with over 3,000 vials. As her agency has grown, so too has their partnership. In 2006, Roberts launched the effort to negotiate better prices for the seeds, which deepened their cooperative relationship even more.
“Of course I said I was happy with that,” – Mr Roberts
Their dedication is best illustrated through their efforts to create the Dean Nicolle Eucalypt Walk. Here, visitors can take in the magnificence and variety of Australian plant life. While trekking the trail, they are captivated by the beautiful rarer eucalypt species. Perhaps most importantly, they learn how ecologically valuable these trees are and what role they serve in their local ecosystem.
Transforming a Rail Corridor into a Natural Haven
The former rail corridor’s transformation into a nationally significant, 13km long eucalypt sanctuary was no overnight success. With the help of volunteers, they helped to bring new life to the landscape while clearing rusted remnants of the former freight industry. This involved taking down old barbed wire fencing and removing coal that had eroded from underneath train cars over the decades.
The time and energy spent remediating the site is indicative of a community commitment to reversing damage and protecting the rich local ecosystems. In turn, visitors are treated to a serene and informative stroll through an area that was once ruled by industry.
The hard work and collaboration between volunteers and the vision of Roberts and Nicolle have breathed new life into this area, creating a space that celebrates Australia’s natural heritage.
“These things, [trails] just happen organically, really.” – Mr Roberts
Ian Roberts has played an important role in translating this creative vision into reality through his artistic talents. He has produced about 770 watercolours depicting about 900 different varieties of eucalyptus. This creative project has brought additional beauty and joy to the walk. It allows visitors to marvel at both the real life crabs and the artistic rendering of that beauty.
Celebrating Eucalypts Through Art
Dr. Nicolle admits that his emotional baggage comes from seeing their vision realized.
While both men remain dedicated to their respective fields—art and science—their partnership exemplifies how collaboration can yield innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Dr. Nicolle humorously suggested that recognition should extend beyond him:
“As a scientist, I try to put those feelings to one side, to a certain extent, but at the same time it’s a really nice thing to have happened,” – Dr Nicolle
While both men remain dedicated to their respective fields—art and science—their partnership exemplifies how collaboration can yield innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Dr. Nicolle humorously suggested that recognition should extend beyond him:
“But maybe they should name the next one after Ian [Roberts],” – Dr Nicolle
