Brendon Bevan
We talked to Brendon Bevan from Arkaba, one of Australia’s most experienced guides and a passionate conservationist.
Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?
My name is Brendon Bevan and I manage Arkaba Conservancy (A Luxury Lodge of Australia), The Arkaba Walk (A Great Walk of Australia) and the property’s conservation model.
What got you started with conservation and what do you find most interesting about it?
I guess since my younger years when my parents purchased a series of cattle farms in Africa and we set about de-stocking and restoring the land. Conservation is a pretty broad subject, but when you get to actually witness change and habitat improvement as a result of your efforts, it is truly the most rewarding thing on earth.
How do you bring conservation to life on your tours?
I like to get folks out of vehicles and into the thick of it! See it, feel it, smell it, taste it! Don’t make them spectate – let them participate.
Why do you think it’s important that people learn about conservation?
It’s everywhere! It is right under our noses and we get so caught up in “The real world” we take it for granted. We all have a roll to play in conservation.
If people wanted to find out more about conservation are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?
To the contrary, I would say put down your book, switch off your television and disconnect your Wi-fi! Go outside and explore. Question the world!
What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?
Got to be a Wedge-Tailed-Eagle! Just look at it!!!
What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?
Has to be Arkaba!
What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?
So, so many things! Spending time in Arnhem Land would have to be right up there…
Is there anything else you’d like to add that hasn’t been covered by the questions already posed?
I guess the only thing I’d add is that there’s more to conservation than being a “Greenie”! There’s a real harsh coal face of conservation involving feral animal control and population dynamics. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it is an absolute necessity.
Finally, how can people follow you on social media?
I guess they can’t really! I’m on Facebook I suppose, but really need to get better at that sort of thing.
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