As we wave goodbye to our Paths for All funding at the end of March 2025, we also say a fond farewell to someone who’s been at the heart of our Active Travel programme, Juliette Walsh.

For the past 18 months, Juliette has been one our Active Travel Coordinators. As well as a Health Walk Leader, bringing energy, knowledge, and a real passion for the outdoors to everything she’s done. While some of our services are being reduced as our funding ends, Juliette is heading to pastures new, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the contribution she’s made.

To celebrate her time with us, we asked Juliette a few questions about her experience:

What has been your highlight over the past year working as part of the Active Travel strand at Eco Savvy?

“I’ve really enjoyed delivering the Nature Health Walk programme and learning a lot more about Arran’s amazing geology, flora and fauna from invited experts. Their enthusiasm is infectious!”

What is the most interesting or memorable nature walk/bike buddy ride/cycle you’ve done during your time?

“The most interesting nature walk was with Sarah Cowan along Sannox where we looked at lichens close up. Everyone seemed really gripped by this new microworld! Also, I rode the adapted bike up to the castle and back with a colleague to check out the route and how the bike coped. It was really fun!”

What’s the biggest lesson or take-away from your role at Eco Savvy?

“I think it’s taken me a while to figure out how the different project strands work, and I’ve noticed that the best engagement happens when all the strands come together – like at our open days, which now attract upwards of 50 people!”

If you could sum up your experience in three words, what would they be?

“Healthy, sustainable, worthwhile.”

What piece of advice would you give to someone beginning their Active Travel journey on Arran?

“Don’t be afraid of e-bikes – they’re a doddle! And don’t walk in a hurry. Take binoculars and a magnifying glass on your walks so you can spend time wondering at the natural world. ‘All those that wander (or wonder) are not lost!’”

We’ll miss Juliette greatly, but we’re excited for her next chapter and all the positive impact she’ll bring in her new role. Thank you, Juliette, for your passion, and your inspiring work encouraging us all to walk, cycle, and explore Arran more sustainably.

Although our health walk programme has come to an end, there is still Stroll With It and Nordic Walking. You can find out when the walks are here.

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