Our leadership team
The Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board boasts a proficient team of experts in natural resource management, sustainability, business, communication and administration. Our adaptable and dedicated approach ensures we work towards optimal outcomes for the environment, our partners and the community.
Michael Garrod - General Manager
Michael has over 20 years’ experience in environmental and natural resource management. Building on skills and knowledge gained as an NRM practitioner, he has held various leadership roles and led teams to engage with the community to plan and deliver environmental outcomes.
Ben Della Torre - Manager, Landscape Operations
As Operations Manager at Hills and Fleurieu, Ben oversees the Board’s flagship landholder support program – the Stewardship program. He also holds a number of regional responsibilities relating to threatened species recovery, agricultural, coastal and regional grazing programs. Ben is well known for his pragmatism and knowledge of legal process relating to environmental protection and has spent the past ten years leading local programs with NRM and Landscape Boards relating to biodiversity restoration and pest plant and animal management. His broad ranging experience includes past roles working for the Pastoral Board as an Environmental Consultant and leading the Department of Environment and Water’s Native Vegetation Unit.
Cathy Lewis - Manager, Business and Governance
Cathy brings over 30 years of diverse experience to her role as Manager of Business and Governance. She has a robust background in accounting, education, and various corporate roles. Cathy possesses comprehensive knowledge and expertise across Finance, IT, HR, Payroll, WHS, and records management. She is dedicated to implementing and maintaining efficient systems and operations to support the work of Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu. Known for her service-oriented approach, Cathy is committed to making a positive impact in every aspect of her role.
Dr Wendy Telfer - Manager Planning, Engagement & Partnerships
Wendy oversees landscape and water planning, communications and regional engagement for Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu. After a PhD and delivering ecological and land management projects, she found her passion for policy and planning working at the Indigenous Land & Sea Corporation. Since then she has loved working for the last 12 years with NRM and Landscape Boards. Wendy is optimistic that working together we can reverse the declining trends in biodiversity and manage landscapes sustainably.