Dear Members and Stakeholders,
We are pleased to share this update following the Board meeting held on 3 September 2025.
Board Chair Appointment
The Board is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Ellen Buckle as the new Chair. We warmly welcome Ms Buckle into this role and look forward to their guidance and insight as we continue to grow and evolve.
Ms Buckle is a highly experienced leader with a track record in governance and strategic leadership across the not-for-profit and agricultural sectors. Her career includes senior roles with prominent member-based organisations such as the Australian Veterinary Association, AgriFutures, and currently as CEO of the Stock Feed Manufacturers Council of Australia. She brings deep expertise in governance, management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement to the role.
Strategic Planning Progress
As part of our commitment to inclusive and future-focused strategic planning, the Board was pleased to welcome the Chairs of three catchment groups—our core members—to the meeting. Their insights were invaluable as we discussed our approach to refreshing the organisation’s strategic direction.
With over 10 years since our founding, the landscape in which we operate has evolved significantly. These discussions marked an important step in shaping how we position the organisation and our members for the challenges and opportunities for the next five years.
The Board is acutely aware of the current challenges of the catchment group members, and the need to allow the new Chair the time to take ownership of the strategic planning process.
Upcoming Annual General Meeting
The Board has approved the scheduling of the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in November 2025, subject to confirmation of the new Chair’s availability.
A formal call for nominations for one vacant Board Director position will be issued shortly. We encourage all members to consider nominating or supporting candidates who are passionate about contributing to Landcare ACT’s future.
Project Highlights
- National Landcare Week (3–9 August 2025)
We are proud to report a highly successful National Landcare Week, highlighted by an event featuring Senator the Hon. Murray Watt, Minister for Environment and Water (Clth) and local representatives Ms Alicia Payne MP, Mr David Smith MP, and the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP visiting the Jerrabomberra Wetlands on 4 August. Their participation and support helped amplify the importance of landcare and community-driven environmental efforts. - ACT Environmental Volunteers Conference
The Conference held 8-9 August 2025 was an inspiring and energising event. We received powerful feedback from attendees, highlighting the value of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose within our environmental volunteering community. - Landcare and Volunteering Survey
In support of both National Landcare Week and the Conference, we conducted a community survey that reaffirmed the significant value of landcare and environmental volunteering. The findings reinforce the critical role our members and volunteers play in delivering social, environmental, and wellbeing outcomes for our communities.
We thank all members and stakeholders for their continued support and engagement. If you have any questions or feedback following this update, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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