By Jolene Ogle
THE Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation has released their first quarterly report to the Noosa Council, outlining their mission statement, money spent on projects and the plans for the future of the foundation.
The report covers the three months to 30 September 2016 and is the first “all-encompassing financial and descriptive account of (the foundation’s) activities”.
Foundation chairman Campbell Corfe described the report as a “notable foundation milestone”.
In his introduction, Mr Corfe explained the foundation had entered the world of policy debate and advocacy by “registering its views” on the State Government’s Green Paper on fisheries policy and an expert panel seeking views on koala conservation.
The report also stated the foundation’s mission statement was to “support projects and ideas that enhance biodiversity conservation and promote sustainable living in Noosa”.
Councillor Ingrid Jackson said she was delighted the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation had overcome the difficulties experienced in its first year and was now proceeding well as an organisation.
“During my election campaign, I was critical of certain aspects of the foundation’s operations, especially about its governance and lack of transparency,” she said.
“I’m pleased that, under this year’s chairmanship by Campbell Corfe, these matters are being addressed.”
Cr Jackson said she believed the community could look forward to 2017 being a year of “significant achievement” for the foundation.
“I also believe the community can feel that the Biosphere Reserve – this important component of Noosa’s environment, economy and community – is in good hands,” she said.
The full report is available for anyone who would like to access it on Noosa Council’s website. Visit www.noosa.qld.gov.au and search meeting minutes for the attachment.
