The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation has appointed Fiona Berkin as Chair to lead its Board of Directors.
Ms Berkin has been a Special Advisor to the Board since November 2021 providing expertise in strategy and charity fundraising.
With a successful corporate career in organisational transformation, Ms Berkin brings recent experience in the not-for-profit sector with her last role as chief executive officer for the international non-government organisation, Destiny Rescue Australia.
Ms Berkin says she joined the NBRF to help keep Noosa a special place.
“I love Noosa and all it represents. I’m excited about the opportunity to enrich collaboration with the many community groups that are all working, ultimately, towards a united cause. I want to map common purpose and vision, reduce double up, and combine our strengths to multiply our efforts in enhancing the Noosa Biosphere Reserve as one amazing entity,” said Ms Berkin.
Berkin succeeds former Chair, Rowan Rafferty and thanked him for his service.
“I would like to thank Rowan for his dedication to the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation during his tenure as Chair. Rowan was instrumental in working with stakeholders to progress the recommendations of the Rural Enterprise Plan to stimulate food and agriculture enterprise in the Noosa Hinterland, with the outcome a series of community meetings and stakeholder symposium held in recent months,” said Ms Berkin.
“The NBRF is looking forward to continuing this important dialogue about our region’s food resilience at the upcoming Noosa Biosphere Gala in November.”
With several of the Foundation’s Directors nearing the end of their term later this year, the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation is calling for expressions of interest to join its Board.
“We’re seeking highly-motivated individuals with an interest in helping to guide the strategic direction of the organisation and support our projects,” said Ms Berkin.
“We have some exciting projects underway, including progressing koala conservation, marine life protection and research, and sustainable agriculture.”
Directorships are voluntary. Candidates with a willingness to commit their time and a demonstrated interest in social, economic and environmental sustainability or experience in finance or governance should apply.
Expressions of interest for Directors of the Board close 31 August. More information is available at www.noosabiosphere.org.au.
