Robin Gunning, NPA Tamworth Branch
The Tamworth-Namoi Branch of NPA sadly reports the death of Ron Webster at the age of 96.
Ron was a founding member of the Tamworth Branch, which was formed in 1974. He served as either president or secretary of the branch for much of that time up to the present. Ron was also the Branch’s State Council delegate and represented NPA on the Northern Tablelands NPWS Advisory Committee.
Ron’s interests were bushwalking in national parks, local and far afield, and writing numerous submissions to better ensure their protection. Off park, Ron was active in environmental water issues, the protection of travelling stock reserves and tree planting around Tamworth.
Ben Halls Gap forest is a unique old growth forest on the top of the Great Dividing Range not far from Tamworth. Ron was a leading member of the Tamworth community group that saved Ben Halls Gap State Forest from logging and got it declared a national park.
Ron Webster was environmental hero and a top bloke. It was a privilege to work with Ron. We will miss him.