- Appointments bring diverse range of knowledge and expertise to council
- Strong representation of Aboriginal, industry, conservation and recreation views
- Council advises on protecting environmental and community values of Cockburn Sound
The Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn has announced the appointment of new members to the Cockburn Sound Management Council.
Established in 2000, the council oversees the water quality monitoring program and provides advice to the Minister on the environmental management for the ongoing health and protection of the Cockburn Sound marine ecosystem.
The council's new independent chair, Associate Professor Judith Fisher, is a principal socio-ecologist who brings a wealth of experience in the environmental, marine natural resource management and social sciences fields, as well as significant expertise as a chair.
Associate Professor Fisher is joined by 18 others selected for their knowledge, experience and skills to make up the council. The members are representatives of the community, conservation interests, recreational interests, industry and all levels of government.
For the first time, council membership will include the appointment of members from Noongar Regional Corporations established through the South West Native Title Settlement, the Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation and the Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation.
This reflects the value the State Government places on stakeholder input into the environmental health of Cockburn Sound, known as Derbal Nara to local Noongar people.
The appointments are for a one-year term, with a further two-year option.
For a full list of the council membership visit Cockburn Sound Management Council | Western Australian Government .
Comments attributed to the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"I'm pleased to welcome the new and reappointed council members to the Cockburn Sound Management Council.
"The members, from Aboriginal corporations, industry, government, conservation and the community, bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and diversity of perspectives. Each has a vital role to play in ensuring a healthy future for Cockburn Sound, under the expert guidance of new chair Associate Professor Judith Fisher.
"I am excited to appoint Regional Aboriginal Corporations to the council for the first time as they provide essential knowledge about the cultural and spiritual values of the Cockburn Sound.
"I would like to acknowledge the service of the outgoing members, including chair Cliff Weeks, and in particular community representative John Polglaze, who made an outstanding contribution for over 20 years."
