Chair update, Autumn 2024
We presume most, if not all, readers are aware now of the change in structure and composition of the Board that occurred recently because of Gary Nairn’s illness.
In brief, I have accepted the role of Chair with Gary remaining on the Board as director. We also welcome Wilfred Finn as a new director. Statements from Gary and myself in relation to the change can be read here and here.
The Board meets approximately 10 times a year to set strategy and vision, oversee and take care of the assets of the Institute and assist Carolyn and her team in fulfilling our strategy and vision. Our priorities this year are to:
provide funds to Carolyn and our excellent research, education and media teams so we can continue to conduct scientific research, improve our techniques and educate schools, communities, government and other organisations on our solutions;
lobby governments across Australia to make significant regulatory change to facilitate the rapid implementation of our interventions into Australia’s waterways;
support Mulloon Consulting in their work with landholders across Australia;
support Mulloon Creek Natural Farms as it provides first-rate nutritious eggs and beef to the public;
finalise our strategic plan for the next five years; and
grow our membership, corporate sponsorship and philanthropy programs.
The change in Board provides an opportunity for the new Board to review, reset and rethink as we build on our solid foundations. It’s always good to periodically test your assumptions, challenge your methods and be creative in considering new strategies (as long as you don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater). In my experience, an energised, informed, collaborative group (with a balance of optimism and scepticism) makes better decisions overall than individuals.
It’s time to bank that water into our landscapes to create healthy, vibrant ecosystems.
Matt