New chair appointed to Australia’s only all-Aboriginal Landscape Board
Australia’s only all-Aboriginal landscape board, the Alinytjara Wiluṟara Landscape Board (AWLB), is welcoming Mr Brenz Saunders as its new Presiding Member, following an announcement of the appointment by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, the Honourable Dr Susan Close MP.
Covering more than 250,000km2in the north-west third of the state, the AWLB region stretches from the Northern Territory and Western Australian border to the Great Australian Bight. This vast region is predominantly dedicated to conservation and traditional Aboriginal use and occupation.
Mr Saunders has strong connections to the Far West Coast of South Australia, growing up on Country near Ceduna, with Wirangu, Kokatha, and Mirning ancestry.
He brings a strong history of governance experience, including as current chair of Taoundi Aboriginal College and Far West Coast Investments, co-chair of the Reconciliation Action Plan Committee at Nova Systems, advisory panel member of the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and board member at the Adelaide Crows Foundation, Minya Bunhii Childcare Centre and Country Arts SA.
“I’m drawn to the Alinytjara Wiluṟara Landscape Board because of its crucial role in preserving and managing the natural environment of the region in which my hometown and cultural connection exists,” Mr Saunders says. ”I have a deep passion for environmental management and Aboriginal intelligence integration, and I believe that my appointment will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the objectives and future goals of the board whilst also ensuring each respective member and their connection to country is supported and uplifted to generate positive outcomes for their people. Additionally, I am inspired by the board's collaborative approach, working closely with communities and other stakeholders to achieve common goals. By becoming the Presiding Member of the board, I hope to actively participate in shaping policies and initiatives that will ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the unique and diverse landscape we call home.”
“We’re delighted with the appointment of Mr Saunders,” says General Manager Kim Krebs. “He is a tremendous addition to the board, bringing a wealth of governance experience, combined with strong connections to Country and determination to be an advocate for positive change in the region.”
