The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation has appointed a new executive coordinator to lead its programs and fundraising initiatives and support the volunteer Board of Directors.
Noosa local Sharon Wright was recently appointed to the role bringing with her 15 years’ experience in management roles across the social enterprise, tertiary education and tourism sectors.
As a member of the previous Noosa Biosphere Ltd Education, Research and Development Sector Board and Co-presenter of the Voices of the Biosphere radio program, Sharon has in-depth knowledge of the Noosa Biosphere Reserve status – an accolade given by UNESCO to Noosa in 2007 for its commitment to sustainable development.
“Noosa is a truly special place. I put my hand up for this role as I want to play my part in shaping our future through championing innovation, building economic resilience and protecting our natural habitats and biodiversity,” Ms Wright said.
“Maintaining the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere status is a fine balancing act of sustainable development and conservation, but one that we as a community have achieved over many years. It is something we can be proud to present to the world,” she said.
The new Executive Coordinator role will support the Foundation’s administration and governance, as well as take a lead role in developing and progressing key projects and fundraising.
Ms Wright said she plans to undertake a number of community engagement activities to inform the Noosa community about the Foundation’s current projects and to look for emerging projects to support.
“Alongside my colleagues we want to be more accessible to the community,” she said.
“We are currently running an initiative with local community groups to help protect the iconic and threatened Glossy Black-Cockatoo population.
“The Noosa Biosphere Reserve is a significant habitat of the Glossy Black-Cockatoo. NBRF is hosting a forum in November with community conservation groups, researchers and local government representatives to identify opportunities for future management and conservation of their habitat. We have had a great response from stakeholders, and we look forward to sharing outcomes of the forum later this year.
“We’re also very excited to announce the launch of our inaugural gala fundraising luncheon “Black and Glossy” on Tuesday 3 November. It happens to be the International Day for Biosphere Reserves, so what better day to bring the community together to celebrate our Noosa Biosphere Reserve and raise funds and awareness for the Glossy Black-Cockatoo. All monies raised at the event will go to seed funding outcomes of the November forum.
“I am looking forward to working with the NBRF Board, Noosa Council and our wonderful community to showcase Noosa as a world class destination to live, work and play.”
