The Orange Field Naturalists and Conservation Society Inc. (OFNCS) was started by Jenny Pratten’s father Chris Pratten, 45 years ago this October.

The OFNCS is a voluntary, not for profit incorporated association. The society aims to foster interest and enjoyment of all aspects of natural history by means of field studies and excursions, informative presentations at meetings and through newsletters and their website.

“I remember as a young teenager going along to the monthly meetings learning about plants and the environment and going on the field trips. I remember there being lots of families and lots of kids, it was a really good time, we would go caving, or bush walking or bird watching, so I guess I’ve always grown up with the love of the environment.”

“After relocating back to Orange two years ago I took an interest in the group as I had fond memories of it growing up. There were lots of families in the society then and so plenty of other kids to enjoy company of.”

“The OFNCS is now a small group of members (some of who have been around since the beginning) most having an extraordinary knowledge of the local area. Advocacy by OFNCS has been instrumental in the establishment of Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, Borenore Caves as well as the Orange Botanic Gardens.

“I’m all about learning so I love what the OFNCS do, and there is always something to do including planting at different sights, there is plenty of opportunity to get out and volunteer. I feel proud, that this is something that my Dad started, he’s still well-known and well respected and I’m keen to make it continue.”

“The society welcomes new members of any age and background, no natural history experience needed. The meetings are the second Thursday of the month at the Senior Citizens and Pensioner Rooms Kite St Orange. Which is usually followed up on Sunday by an excursion. A Facebook page and website www.orangefieldnats.com is available for anyone who is interested in find out more information.”