In a heartfelt gathering at Fairhill Native Botanic Gardens and Nursery, friends and family recently paid tribute to Barbara Hansa, a pioneering figure in the native plant industry and conservation efforts on the Sunshine Coast. Barbara, who passed away last month, leaves behind a legacy deeply rooted in environmental stewardship.
In 1975, alongside her husband Alex, Barbara founded Fairhill nursery on what was once farmland in Ninderry. Recognized as one of Queensland’s earliest Australian native plant nurseries, Fairhill distinguished itself by propagating most of its stock from seed. What began as a humble venture soon blossomed into a 4-hectare native garden, accompanied by an expanding nursery, an art gallery supporting local artists, and a cherished bookshop.
Barbara’s commitment to environmental advocacy extended beyond the nursery grounds. In 1978, she orchestrated the inaugural World Environment Day celebration on the Sunshine Coast at Fairhill Gardens. This landmark event, which marked the beginning of an annual tradition, was a collaborative effort supported by a committee that included future members of the Sunshine Coast Environment Council (SCEC). Barbara’s pivotal role in the SCEC’s formation, alongside figures like Stan Tutt, underscored her influence in shaping local conservation initiatives.
The success of the World Environment Day Festival outgrew its origins at Fairhill, prompting a move to larger venues. After a brief stint at Petrie Park in Nambour, the festival found a long-term home at Cotton Tree, where it thrived for two decades. Barbara’s vision for community engagement and environmental awareness was also reflected in her founding role in the Sunshine Coast Wildflower Society in 1978. The society, which advocated for the protection of native flora amid coastal development, organized annual events like the Wildflower Show to spotlight the region’s biodiversity.
Barbara’s passion for native plants and environmental conservation resonated deeply with those who knew her. Elaine Ricketts, a close friend, described Barbara as a “true pioneer” whose life was dedicated to nurturing and safeguarding the natural heritage of the Sunshine Coast.
Upon stepping back from Fairhill, Barbara and Alex entrusted its legacy to their son Nick, who continued its operations until its sale in 2020. Despite changes in ownership, Fairhill continues to thrive, maintaining its commitment to native plants and environmental education.
Barbara Hansa’s enduring impact on the Sunshine Coast’s environmental landscape is a testament to her pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to conservation. Her legacy lives on through the thriving gardens and ongoing conservation efforts she helped to establish and inspire.
