NSW
The NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust has welcomed two new board members to support its work to expand private land conservation in the state.
“I am very pleased to welcome Professor Leslie ‘Phil’ Duncan and Ms Fiona Simson to the Board,” said Environment Minister, Penny Sharpe.
“Ms Simson and Professor Duncan bring a wealth of expertise and knowledge and are a strong addition to a team which guides the Biodiversity Conservation Trust in its innovative and science-based programs.
“Professor Duncan’s natural resource management expertise and experience working with Aboriginal people and government will help the Trust continue to expand Indigenous participation in their programs.
“Ms Simson brings a strong background in agricultural policy advocacy to the board, particularly in relation to environmental sustainability, biodiversity and climate change on farms,” the Minister said.
Professor Leslie ‘Phil’ Duncan (pictured, left) is a member of the Gomeroi / Gamilaroi Nation with a strong connection to the Wiradjuri Nation. Professor Duncan has a background in natural resource management and community engagement with extensive experience providing policy and leadership advice to Indigenous organisations and government agencies.
Fiona Simson (pictured, right) is a farmer and experienced policy, governance and strategy non-executive director, with a career in agricultural advocacy and policy development. Ms Simson has a focus on good policy, governance and strategy to support rural and regional communities. Ms Simson was also the first female Chair of the National Farmers’ Federation.
In addition to the two new members, Dr David Freudenberger has been reappointed to the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust board. Dr Freudenberger has extensive experience in environmental research and remains a senior sessional academic at the Australian National University.
They join continuing board members the Hon. Niall Blair (Chairperson), Ms Christine Covington (Deputy Chair), Mr Tim King CFA, Mr John Maher, Mr John Pierce AO and Dr Jane Weatherley.
“We thank Káren Zirkler for her service and support to conserve biodiversity in NSW over the past four years,” said Minister Sharpe.
The NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust is the NSW Government agency tasked with protecting and enhancing biodiversity on private land across the state.
