It is with sadness that we acknowledge the recent passing of one of our longer term Bushcare volunteers, Bob Chapman. Bob, who was born in 1943, lived at Glenbrook for many years, and had much to do with Bushcare and environmental activities in the lower Mountains and Lapstone area.

He had been involved with Darks Common Landcare since its inception in 2004 and had much involvement in other land restoration in the lower mountains as well.

His wife Kathy, as a community member, was involved in the development of early planning for the Eastern
Escarpment, both Kathy and Bob being instrumental in much of the environmental outcomes for this plan.

Bob was very knowledgeable and purposeful, yet quiet natured, which led to achievements with subtlety. He
was a deep methodical scientific thinker. One of Bob’s great lifelong passions was astronomy, something he
had partaken since his younger years. This included constructing lenses for his telescopes, glass making
being another occupation of his. He had a knack of finding a way to make something happen when there was an idea or a project to do.

He worked in the building industry as a materials technician for many years at Parramatta, and also in the UK and Queensland, including timber and glass.

Later coming to Glenbrook in the lower Mountains where both Kathy and Bob have been involved in many projects together.

Bob had a friendly, pleasant disposition, always being someone good to be around, and an asset to a Bushcare group. He was passionate about the environment and had achieved much in the Blue Mountains in a quiet, considered way. We appreciate what Bob has done, and our thoughts go out to Kathy and his family.

A quote from Bob:

When I am gone, don’t look to the ground to remember me, look to the stars. It is the components of the stars where we all come from.