Tribute to John Walkley 1952 - 2023

John was the founding President of the Friends of Eaglemont Village and Eaglemont Stationeers, and a tireless advocate for the Eaglemont Village community. It was John’s vision that led to the work we have done along the rail line, rehabilitating previously neglected, weed choked land, by removing weed species and litter and planting Australian natives, to the benefit of the environment and the wildlife, and encouraging more people to walk to the Village. John led by example, doing much of the weed and litter removal and replanting himself, and making some of the artworks. He also propagated many of the native plants that can be seen growing around the Village. He helped to put Eaglemont on the map by organising Stationeers and the Friends of Eaglemont Village working bees, often involving participation by corporate groups of volunteers. The Planet Ark Tree Planting Day in 2023 had about 50 participants from as far afield as Dandenong and Port Melbourne. John Walkley was the kind of man every community needs. His energy and passion for the Village, its community and its environment inspired many to become involved. His presence was a large part of Eaglemont Village being a welcoming, friendly and caring community that coped well during the COVID lockdowns, and continues to pull together and improve the Eaglemont environment for everyone. He left us suddenly and unexpectedly and is much missed. We will try to continue his good work!