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Tony Parkes, the banker who replanted a rainforest

Tony Parkes, a former investment banker, spent three decades restoring the Big Scrub rainforest in northern New South Wales by planting tens of thousands of trees on his land and leading community efforts to protect and regenerate the region's degraded rainforest. His work with the Big Scrub Rainforest Conservancy brought together landholders, scientists, and volunteers to create a sustainable model for rainforest recovery, significantly increasing tree planting and conservation efforts in the area. His leadership helped transform private restoration into a public cause, making rainforest recovery a key part of the region's environmental and civic life.

What happened

Tony Parkes, a former banker, spent 30 years replanting the Big Scrub rainforest in northern New South Wales after retiring from his career.

Why it matters

His work brought together landowners, scientists, and volunteers to restore a critically damaged ecosystem and make rainforest recovery a community effort.

Why it belongs here

It shows how one person’s dedication and business skills can inspire long-term environmental healing and local collaboration.

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