Restoring landscapes across the Mount Alexander Region

Director reflections

Posted on 2 February, 2023 by Frances

The time has come for me to hand over my role as Connecting Country’s Director. I will miss many aspects of the work, but am delighted to transition the role to an excellent new Director – Lorene (Lori) Arthur. I’m sure Lori will bring a fresh perspective and energy, while I focus on my property and other personal projects.

A huge thank you to the Connecting Country staff and committee for your friendship and help, and to our volunteers and donors for your support these last five years. Our community is blessed with some remarkably generous, dedicated and knowledgeable people. I am incredibly grateful for the chance to be part of Connecting Country, all I’ve learnt and the people I’ve met.

I’ve loved collaborating with a great team on meaningful projects, while constantly learning. Although difficult times (given declining funding and a global pandemic), it’s been extremely fulfilling and always interesting. Our team has delivered some brilliant projects, while becoming a more streamlined and adaptable organisation. Connecting Country’s ongoing funding remains uncertain, but I am confident about its capacity to keep navigating the challenges.

Connecting Country’s achievements rely on its small but passionate and hardworking staff team. During my five years as Director, we’ve developed and obtained funding for 36 new projects, spanning on-ground landscape restoration, Landcare, monitoring and community engagement. In addition to all the work of delivering the projects, that represents an awful lot of grant applications and reporting! During my time we’ve completed 26 projects, with 14 current projects ongoing for 2023.

Connecting Country is now ready to embrace some compelling new opportunities. I am keen to stay involved, where appropriate, and look forward to continuing the journey as an active volunteer and supporter.

Connecting Country’s new Director (Lori) starts on 13 February 2023. Stay tuned for an upcoming blog post introducing Lori.

Frances will still be involved with Connecting Country, including volunteering as a nest box team leader! (photo by Jess Lawton)

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