Colma Keating
After growing up in WA’s wheatbelt and Pilbara regions, Colma studied Science at UWA in the late 1970s, early 1980s, with majors in Botany and Geography and became involved in environmental groups. This included honorary secretary of the WA Conservation Council and Councillor for the Australian Conservation Foundation. Early campaigns included Shark Bay World Heritage, Lesueur National Park, Trigg Dunes.
In 1988, by day Colma began working for the WA Department of Agriculture on landcare and coastal programs, by night she started taking on roles representing environment interests on government committees.
After a ‘Landcare Liaison’ stint in Minister Ernie Bridge’s office and a secondment to Canberra to work on Landcare Australia’s business plan, Colma returned to Perth in 1993. She focused her volunteer efforts on government liaison and skills development activities that were needed in the Conservation Council, playing a pivotal role in establishing “Environment Matters” that this year celebrates its 21st Birthday of sharing and extending knowledge and understanding – whilst networking.
She has worked for government agencies and Not For Profits (including Greening WA, Landcare Australia and the WA Wildflower Society) conducting botanical surveys, community engagement, facilitation, sponsorship and training and continues to have an unwavering commitment to environmental organisations.
Colma is a very active contributor to the Urban Bushland Council, served on the WA Landcare Network Committee 2014-2016 and for over 30 years has been an energetic member of her local urban landcare group, Canning River Residents Environment Protection Association.
The tag ‘a walking, talking, sharing mind-map’ still captures Colma’s driving passion and contribution to supporting and connecting people and knowledge – in community led conservation and rehabilitation.
