Art and activism have always been central tenets in Sue Ferris and Jeremy Barrett's lives, both guided by their strong love of nature.
Jeremy's bond with the earth began in Swan Hill, Victoria, where he spent his childhood "scrubbing around in the dirt". These early impressions never left him; in fact, they went on to inform his creative work.
Jeremy has long been influenced by nature in his art, which has been featured in galleries across Australia, including the National Gallery of Victoria. For him, nature remains an innate mystery and a source of constant wonder that continues to inspire him. Jeremy's work will feature at ANCA Gallery this year.
Even today, at the age of 89, I see birds flying and think, 'How do they do that?'" he says. "I've still got a child in me that's capable of being amazed at the way nature works.”
For Sue, nature was a safe haven during an often-difficult childhood in Tasmania.
"I loved being out in the garden and found solace in the bush. I'd sit out on my own for hours."
As a writer, she has translated these feelings into pieces like Safe Haven, reflecting on a connection that has remained her constant anchor.
Today, that shared connection has evolved into a powerful commitment to climate activism. Living in a retirement village, Sue (85 and not quite blind) and Jeremy haven't slowed down; instead, they've formed 'The Circle,' a democratic discussion group where residents meet every Wednesday to tackle big issues like climate change and philosophy. They believe in the power of conversation to overcome the greatest challenge of our time: apathy.
"People understand logically that trees absorb carbon and release oxygen, and that's how we get the air we breathe … but the distractions of day-to-day life consume most of their attention," Jeremy explains. "It's a big step for people to ask, 'Can I make a contribution to what needs to be done?'"
Sue views their activism as a necessary rebellion against a profit-driven system that discourages curiosity.
I've always been secretly a radical," she laughs. "If I feel a sense of injustice, I'll always speak out.”
This shared sense of urgency led them to the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF). For Sue and Jeremy, grassroots movements are the "only hope” left to bypass political funding and drive real, systemic change.
Their support for ACF is rooted in a trust built over years of observing the organisation's integrity and commitment. They have supported the cause in many ways – donating proceeds from book sales and making regular contributions – but they have also taken a more permanent step by leaving a gift to ACF in their Wills.
Nature, above all, seems to be the most important issue.”
For Sue, the decision was a matter of legacy and logic. "Rather than donating to kids who are on their own feet and managing very well, I'd like to think that what I leave behind can be of more use. Nature, above all, seems to be the most important issue."
Jeremy agrees, seeing the protection of the natural world as a fundamental responsibility. "Nature is our home. It supplies the air we breathe and the water we drink. It should be regarded as an integral part of the wholeness of our existence."