Forestry Australia has recognised the significant contributions of retiring President Dr Michelle Freeman, as well as retiring Vice-President Dr Bill Jackson, whilst also welcoming two newly elected directors, Louise Bourke and Dr Phil Lacy, after the Annual General Meeting in Canberra yesterday.

Dr Freeman and Dr Jackson have concluded their terms on the Forestry Australia Board after many years of leadership and service to the organisation, its members and the broader forestry profession.

Forestry Australia Chief Executive Officer Jacquie Martin said both had played important roles during a period of significant growth, renewal and increased professional standing for the organisation. “Michelle and Bill have each made an extraordinary contribution to Forestry Australia, and it is difficult to adequately capture the impact of their leadership over many years,” Ms Martin said.

“Michelle has led Forestry Australia with enormous energy, commitment as well as a deep belief in the value of forest scientists, forestry professionals and the role that our association can play in strengthening the profession’s voice and standing.”

“Michelle will leave a legacy on Forestry Australia, not only through her leadership but through the energy, generosity and passion she has brought to the role. She has helped create an organisation that is confident in its purpose and ambition for our future.”

“Bill has brought an exceptional depth of experience to the Board. His national and international perspective, strategic insight, considered approach and strong governance leadership have been enormously valuable as Forestry Australia has continued to mature as an organisation.”

“I have personally valued Michelle and Bill’s counsel, support and friendship enormously. On behalf of our members, staff and Board, I sincerely thank them both for their years of service to Forestry Australia and to the profession.”

“It has been a genuine privilege to serve as President and to work on behalf of our many thoughtful, passionate and experienced members and dedicated volunteers,” Dr Michelle Freeman said. “I’m proud of what we have achieved together, and particularly of the way Forestry Australia has continued to strengthen its voice as a constructive and trusted contributor to important conversations about forests and their future.”

“I step down with enormous gratitude for the people who make this organisation what it is, and with great confidence in those who will carry its work forward.”

On his retirement, Dr Bill Jackson reflected the increasingly important role Forestry Australia plays in supporting forest growers, scientists and professionals to restore, conserve and sustainably manage Australia’s forests and woodlands.

“The willingness of its members to use credible evidence to promote active and adaptive forest management underpins their commitment to ensuring Australia’s natural and planted forests continue to provide the full range of ecosystem services for the benefit of every Australian.”

At the AGM, Forestry Australia members elected Louise Bourke and Dr Phil Lacy as Directors. “We are delighted to welcome our two new Directors and look forward to the experience, perspectives and ideas they will bring to the Board,” Ms Martin said.

Following the AGM, Forestry Australia’s Board comprises Dr Lyndall Bull, Leon Holt, Professor Rod Keenan, Matt de Jongh, Louise Bourke and Phil Lacy with Emily Post and Dr Sam Van Holsbeeck continuing as Board Observers.

Ms Martin said Forestry Australia was fortunate to benefit from Directors who contribute significantly beyond their formal governance responsibilities. “Our Directors are volunteers, and their contribution extends considerably beyond attending Board meetings. They provide strategic and governance leadership while also contributing substantial time and expertise through committees, working groups, projects, stakeholder engagement and the many issues and opportunities that arise throughout the year.”

“Forestry Australia has benefited enormously from the calibre and commitment of the people who have served on its Board. As we farewell Michelle and Bill and welcome our new Directors, we do so from a position of strength and with great appreciation for those who have helped build the organisation we have today.”

The new Board will meet following the AGM to elect Forestry Australia’s President and Vice-Presidents.

For further information: Jason Ross, Marketing & Communications Manager, M: 0448 190 055

ABOUT FORESTRY AUSTRALIA

Forestry Australia is a not-for-profit professional association representing more than 1,100 forest scientists, managers, professionals and growers. Operating across native forests, plantations, farm forestry and environmental services, our members bring deep scientific knowledge and practical experience in forest, fire, carbon, tree-growing and landscape management. Through their work, they study, manage and care for Australia’s forests and are committed to delivering positive environmental, social, cultural and economic outcomes across all forest types and land tenures.