New GM for biosphere

Anna Macklin appointed new Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation GM. (Supplied)

The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation (NBRF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Anna Macklin as its new General Manager.

A long-term resident of the Noosa Shire, Anna brings more than 25 years of local knowledge and extensive leadership experience in community engagement, stakeholder collaboration and grant acquisition.

“I have a deep personal connection to the Noosa Shire and am excited by the opportunity to support the Foundation in its mission to promote sustainable living and advance conservation and sustainability education in the Noosa Biosphere Reserve,” said Ms Macklin.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with community, business and First Nations partners to advance the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Program in our Noosa Biosphere and collaboratively with our neighbouring Great Sandy and Sunshine Coast Biosphere Reserves.”

Ms Macklin will be supported by the recently appointed Treasurer, Nimish Kulkarni, and Deputy Chair and Secretary, John McCann as part of a strong volunteer Board of Directors and advisors.

Fiona Berkin, Chair of the NBRF said “We’re thrilled to have Anna join our team. Her experience in not-for-profit management, tourism, education and capacity building will be a great asset in helping us to secure vital funding and delivering impactful regional projects.”

The Foundation recently negotiated a revised partnership agreement with Noosa Council for the next four years. The revised agreement provides increased clarity on the obligations of both parties in the overall management of the UNESCO biosphere reserve program.

“The new partnership agreement with Noosa Council provides greater certainty to continue delivering on our strategic priorities and enhancing community participation in our Noosa Biosphere initiatives and projects,” said Ms Berkin.

Current projects include the Blue Biosphere and Koala Guardians research initiatives in partnership with University of the Sunshine Coast, with aspirations to expand the BioRegions schools education resource kit with the Noosa Environmental Education Hub.

In coming weeks, the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation will open its 5th Noosa Biosphere Awards for entry, celebrating exceptional contributions from both business, community and individuals toward a thriving and sustainable Noosa Shire.

For more information, visit www.noosabiosphere.org.au.