FOUNDER OF THE GREEN MOUNTAINS NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION
WORDS BY ANN TRACEY -LONG TERM MEMBER AND FRIEND OF BIG PETE
A few words to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, Peter O’Reilly, whose extraordinary contributions touched so many hearts and lives. It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone we love, but we are united in honouring Peter’s legacy, his passions, and the values he instilled in all of us.
In his early days, Peter studied at Gatton Agricultural College and ran beef cattle on many of the O’Reilly’s selections, while becoming immersed in Lamington’s beauty and unique flora.
He was not just one of the owners of O’Reilly’s Guesthouse; he was a beacon of warmth and hospitality in our community. For many, the guesthouse represented more than just a place to stay—it symbolised comfort, kindness, and the spirit of coming together. Peter took great pride in ensuring that every guest felt welcomed, cherished, and at home. With his infectious smile and genuine spirit, he turned strangers into friends and made countless memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
But Peter’s impact reached far beyond the walls of his home and beloved guesthouse. He became a passionate advocate for nature and had an immeasurable love for Lamington NP, wildlife and birds.
Peter founded the Green Mountains Natural History Association in 1977. Under Peter’s leadership, the GMNHA was a vital resource for national parks staff and park visitors, especially through the visitor information centre where information was provided on bushwalks and valuable information about Lamington’s unique flora and fauna. He ran a long-term, rain-Forest monitoring plot with botanist Bill McDonald. Under his presidency of the GMNHA, the Tree-top walk was constructed – the first suspension walk in the Southern Hemisphere; the Wishing-tree track (with Mick’s tower) was established; and the Python Rock Lookout and wheel-chair accessible track there-to were achieved. Peter worked tirelessly to engage people of all ages. His passion for Lamington’s unique ecosystems was contagious, inspiring countless individuals to learn more about their environment and take action to protect it.
His vision for Bird Week was born from this passion—a week dedicated to celebrating the beauty and diversity of birdlife, fostering appreciation and understanding among all participants. Through this initiative, for many years hosted by the GMNHA and first conducted in 1977, Peter educated many about the delicate balance of nature, inspiring a sense of stewardship in everyone involved. Bird Week is Australia’s longest-running bird-watching event, with usually over 200 bird species recorded.
So many of us fondly remember the laughter and joy that resonated during Bird Week; the enthusiasm in Peter’s voice as he led workshops, guided walks, and engaged with attendees. His dedication to promoting awareness of the natural world was infectious, and he created a community bound together by love for the ornithological wonders that surrounded us.
Peter was also a man of great character and integrity. His unwavering commitment to the GMNHA, and to O’Reilly’s exemplified the kind of selflessness that we should all aspire to embody. He taught us the importance of giving back to our community and caring for our environment. His legacy will continue to inspire others to do the same. It was for all this that he was awarded his Order of Australia in 2002.
As we reflect upon Peter’s life, let us remember him not only for what he accomplished but for who he was — a beloved husband to Karma and to Annette, a loving father to Shane, Danny, Peter, Tim, and Woo (Karleen), a dear friend, and a compassionate soul who inspired us all to be better, to love more deeply, and to embrace the beauty of the world around us.
Though he can no longer walk among us, Peter O’Reilly’s spirit lives on in our hearts, in the members of the GMNHA, in the laughter of friends gathered at O’Reilly’s Guesthouse, and in the joy of birdwatching he fostered within our community. Let us honour his memory by embodying the kindness he showed us and continuing his mission of celebrating our natural world together.
The GMNHA continues to thrive, thanks to Peter’s tireless efforts and the foundation he built. Through our collective efforts, we can keep Peter’s spirit alive and continue the important work he began over four decades ago.
Thank you, Peter, for everything you have given us. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will forever remain in our hearts.