KNOWN in the community for his “green thumb”, Penola resident Kevin Jarred has gone above and beyond to help beautify the region.
As the main driving force behind the Greenrise Arboretum, Mr Jarred has dedicated almost 20 years to the establishment and upkeep of the area which was recognised on Saturday when he was named Wattle Range Council’s Riddoch Ward senior citizen of the year.
The arboretum now thrives with around 120 species of native plants which are all labeled, a community of koalas and graveled walkways to provide a haven and educational experience for walkers.
Mr Jarred has spent countless hours each year spraying weeds and trimming branches to maintain the trees as perfect specimens of each species.
He also initiated the plating of Sydney Blue Gums and Spotted Gums along the entrance road to Greenrise in 2004 which involved over 100 Penola Primary school students.
Nominated by the Greenrise Advisory Committee, Mr Jarred was the perfect fit for the Australia Day honour.
His dedication to the beautification and maintenance of Penola and surrounds has shown true pride in his community.
Mr Jarred has also been a valued member of the Penola Show Society and is a previous grand champion rose winner.
“When I initially proposed an arboretum no one knew what I was talking about,” Mr Jarred said.
“I had to organise a tour to Coleraine so people could see what I meant.
“Eventually it got off the ground and 20 years later it’s still thriving.”
Mr Jarred said he was humbled by the award and did not believe he would ever receive such an accolade.
“I want to thank those who nominated me and the Penola Lions Club for giving me this honour,” he said.
“I was not in it for an award, I just wanted to do something to benefit the community that has given so much to me.
“I am proud to receive this and am thankful to everyone who has supported the arboretum.”
Penola Lions Club president Peter Muller said the club was honoured to award its senior of the year to Mr Jarred.
“Kevin is passionate about our area and richly deserves the Lions award,” he said.
“It is a pleasure to recognise his effort and we are proud to have him in our community.”
