It was a bird that helped me see the true importance of my new role as the incoming chair of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Australia.
I had already understood – intellectually at least – the critical role of TNC.
But standing in the quiet grasslands near Echuca, watching the elusive Plains-wanderer, one of the rarest birds on Earth, move delicately through the native vegetation, something shifted. That moment, surrounded by landowners and donors equally awed by this fragile creature, was transformational. This work wasn’t just about the bird. It was about the land, the legacy, and the urgency.
I grew up in rural Victoria an hour out of Melbourne until I was 15, on a farm. My father was deeply connected to nature. His values, though never preached, shaped me. I didn’t come from a scientific or conservation background, but I’ve always understood the sacredness of land. That night in Echuca, it all clicked
Joining TNC at this pivotal moment is both a privilege and a responsibility. We are at an inflection point not just as an organisation, but as a society. The climate and biodiversity crises are no longer distant threats. They are here, now, and they demand action rooted in evidence, collaboration, and hope.
Transformation has featured throughout my career. As the first female President of the State Library of Victoria, I led a cultural institution through reform and renewal. I am conscious that a Public Library must reflect the community it represents, and as Victoria has grown and modernised so too has this institution. We navigated complex social issues, adopted new technology to broaden our accessibility, upheld our duty of care, and emerged stronger, more inclusive, and more connected to our community. That experience taught me the power of bringing diverse voices together to solve hard problems – something I intend to carry into my role at TNC.
I’ve seen firsthand how philanthropy can transform institutions. At the State Library, we raised millions to create spaces that inspire and educate future generations. At TNC, I see similar potential. Across Australia, farmers are recognising the limits of traditional practices and embracing regenerative approaches. Young people are passionately committed to protecting the planet. Philanthropists are seeing the important work that needs to be done and getting behind it. These are not isolated efforts; they are part of a growing movement.
And yet, we must do more. We must tell stories that resonate, not just with the head but with the heart. We must show that solutions exist and that they work. We must be clear, consistent, and courageous in our message: nature is not a luxury. It is the foundation of life, and its protection is our shared responsibility.
As Chair, my role is to help guide TNC Australia through this next chapter. I bring a commercial lens, a collaborative spirit, and a deep belief in the power of emotionally engaged leadership. I may not be a scientist, but I know how to take people on a journey. And this journey toward a healthier, more resilient planet is one we must all take together.
The Plains-wanderer reminded me that even the smallest creature can inspire the biggest change. Let’s make sure we leave a legacy worthy of future generations.