Memorials in Foote Sanctuary
The Foote Sanctuary Association is occasionally asked to place a memorial to family members who loved and or worked in the sanctuary.
Honouring Loved Ones at Foote Sanctuary
Foote Sanctuary is jointly managed by the Association and Sunshine Coast Council, so all memorials must follow Council’s memorial policy. The Sanctuary itself is a Living Memorial, dedicated to preserving the natural environment, honouring its history and encouraging community involvement for generations to come.
We acknowledge the many people who have cared for this forest over decades, as well as the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi) people who have cared for this land for tens of thousands of years. In keeping with this connection to country, we recognise trees as more enduring tributes than plaques or stones, and invite families to commemorate loved ones by planting an appropriate native tree in consultation with the Association.
Each memorial tree is recorded as part of a living archive, noting both the tree’s location and the loved one it honours.
Honouring Those Who Shaped The Sanctuary
Tom Simper
A Red Cedar (Toona ciliata) was planted in Tom Simper’s memory in 2005. Tom was one of the twelve people who met in 1963 to discuss forming the Sanctuary, later becoming a founding member and chairing the second meeting where key decisions were made. When the Sanctuary was officially established in April 1964, Tom became its first President. His commitment to early work parties and ongoing volunteer efforts never wavered.
The walkway between Eckersley Avenue and the Sanctuary was named The Tom Simper Walk in recognition of his dedication..
Norman Jackson
A White Cedar (Melia azedarach) was planted on the Southern Boundary Track to honour Norman Jackson. His contribution to the Sanctuary community is remembered through this living memorial.
Mr Bloxsome
A Tulip Wood (Harpullia pendula) was planted in memory of Mr Bloxsome, an active member of the Sanctuary. He or his father discovered a new species of Eucalyptus, later named Eucalyptus bloxsomi in their honour.
Lych Gate memorial
In 2018, a timber Lych Gate was installed at the entry to Tom Simper Walk on Eckersley Avenue. Funded through a Buderim Foundation grant, the structure serves as an entry statement and a lasting acknowledgement of the volunteers and community members who helped shape the Sanctuary.
Planting a Memorial Tree
If you would like to plant a memorial tree, the Association will work with you to choose a suitable site and an endemic species for that location. A date and time will be arranged, and you are welcome to invite family or friends to attend. You may also choose to make a donation to support the Sanctuary’s ongoing care.
On the day, volunteers will prepare the site and supply the tree, and photos may be taken to mark the occasion. The tree’s location will be formally recorded at the next Association meeting and added to the register of Memorial Trees. If the tree does not survive within the first three years, volunteers will replace it at no cost.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Explore the beauty of Foote Sanctuary and get involved in our community efforts. Your participation helps preserve our natural heritage and supports local wildlife.