Our thank you to Mara
When people think of Denmark Farm, or when we mention it to someone in the community, without fail the response we hear is, “Is Mara still there?”. This is not surprising, as the face of Denmark Farm, Mara has been an, if not at times the, integral force in the functioning of the charity during her remarkable 18 years of employment with the Shared Earth Trust. But now, we have to answer ‘no’, as she moves on to a new challenge.
Mara has not only been an employee of Denmark Farm, but she has been its champion. Well known and loved by many people in the local community. She has always given a personal welcome to everyone who has visited. There are not many people who know the site as well as she, and who so actively believe in its cause. We know that she is tireless in her promotion of the place and its ethos. Mara’s knowledge of the ecology on the site is deeply impressive, especially the wildflowers and fungi, as too is her commitment to knowing and appreciating all the volunteers, tutors and daily visitors. A true Engagement Manager.
That is why we offer our greatest thanks to Mara at her time of moving on, for being such a valued member of staff for so long. With the board of trustees, Mara has held the fort for nearly two decades, wearing many different hats from pizza chef extraordinaire to fundraising wizard, and has seen much change, and peaks and troughs for the charity. There was also a time that Mara wore all the hats at once, as the sole contracted member of staff. For this constancy, flexibility and dedication, the team are truly grateful, as are the Denmark Farm extended community.
Mara has had many achievements in her role at Denmark Farm, from big funding wins, to her creation of an outstanding array of courses and workshops that are known and respected widely; as well as the building of wonderful partnerships with other local enterprises and members of the community. The most recent huge achievement, as yet unannounced, was her successful application to make Denmark Farm an official National Forest for Wales (cue the secret celebratory cheers!). Another success was her securing of the Green Flag Award, signifying that Denmark Farm is a truly exceptional place with the highest of standards. Mara also achieved the first 4* rating from Visit Wales for the Eco Lodge, under the category of Alternative Accommodation, something we are very proud of for our sustainably built holiday accommodation.
Mara may be leaving Denmark Farm for pastures new, however without doubt her impact will be held within it’s walls and out in the woods and on the land, where her vision and commitment has shaped much of the reserve and its development over the years. And for those worrying about missing her during their next visit, panic not! You may still see her out and about as a garden volunteer, or no doubt on one of our future courses as a participant.
Thank you for everything you have achieved here, Mara. Our grateful thanks to you, we will miss you and we wish you the very best of luck for the future.
Ray Williams
says:A truly engaging and collaborative attitude to projects and all activities that was always accompanied by a warm, welcoming smile. That was Mara every time!
Thank you for your leadership and dedication. Denmark Farm will continue its work because of your efforts to establish strong and lasting relationships and sustainable development.
It was always a pleasure meeting and learning alongside you. Enjoy your next adventure!
Andy Smith
says:Gaia was the Greek goddess of Earth who created the order of nature out of chaos. Mara will always be the Gaia of Denmark Farm to me and also a great personal support during my time volunteering there. Good luck to her new ventures.
Linda Winn
says:So much love, Mara. I have so many fond memories of the times we spent working and having fun together at Denmark Farm, Lampeter Permaculture Group and Transition Llambed!
I cannot imagine you not being part of Denmark Farm, solving problems for volunteers, guests and course participants – always ready to help, make creative leaps into the unknown and explore the myriad ways there are to ‘kneel and kiss the Earth’.
All good wishes for whatever is next for you.
Chris and jan Jones
says:Mara, visitors from afar like me just love coming over and your smile is always there as a welcome. After 10 years or so of visits its all been worth it and I have gravitated from camping to the Eco Lodges.
Especially I will remember this year as Jan came with me to make a willow tray.
I said you must meet Mara having heard so much about her. Love from us both. XX
Good luck in whatever you do next but maybe still delivering the mutton
Julie Garlick
says:Wishing you all the best for the future from all of us at Pembs Coast National Park!
You have been so helpful over the years and always a ray of sunshine!
Best wishes to you xxx