What an incredible event! Our Annual General Meeting was one of our best yet, with a huge crowd of both familiar and new faces joining us to celebrate the year that’s been. The energy in the room was wonderful – positive, uplifting, and deeply connected to the landscapes, wildlife and waterways of southern Tasmania.
Led by CEO Nepelle Crane and Chair Bob Rutherford, the afternoon was an opportunity to share our achievements and vision, and to reflect on the role NRM South plays in shaping a thriving future for our region.
The response from attendees was overwhelming. We were touched to hear a chorus of praise for the AGM – countless people told us how moved they felt by the stories we shared, with some saying the event gave them a sense of hope and peace they didn’t know they needed when they walked in. Others spoke of how impressed they were by the scope of our projects, the clarity of our strategy, and the strength of our vision for the future. It was heart-warming to know that our work resonated so deeply, sparking inspiration and connection.
In her address, Nepelle highlighted that NRM South’s work is about more than just delivering projects – it’s about connecting ecology, economy and culture so that nature’s voice is heard alongside people’s. She celebrated the team’s achievements in delivering over 18 major projects across our Land, Water and Biodiversity programs, from restoring habitats and supporting threatened species with innovative technologies, to building resilience in farming communities.
A highlight was the Blue Carbon wetland restoration project, which is not only restoring biodiversity but also tackling climate change and creating sustainable economic opportunities. This big-picture approach is reflected in our evolving 2030 NRM Strategy, which we are building on to include a new Sustainable Futures domain focused on climate resilience, circularity and enabling conditions for long-term regional change.
A highlight was the Blue Carbon wetland restoration project, which is not only restoring biodiversity but also tackling climate change and creating sustainable economic opportunities. This big-picture approach is reflected in our evolving 2030 NRM Strategy, which we are building on to include a new Sustainable Futures domain focused on climate resilience, circularity and enabling conditions for long-term regional change.
Jennifer Hemer, Program Manager for Water and Marine, brought this vision to life with a presentation on restoration work at Pitt Water–Orielton Lagoon and the surrounding catchment area. This project beautifully demonstrates how our Land, Water and Biodiversity programs work together to amplify outcomes across catchments.
We also premiered three feature videos showcasing our recently completed Soil Extension Program, the Blue Carbon restoration project, and our work with landholders to protect Swift Parrot habitat through conservation covenants. A big thank you to our staff and partners who featured in these stories.
The evening also celebrated our people. Congratulations to Tim Ackroyd, Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, who received this year’s Scanlon Scholarship. Tim will undertake international study tours exploring landscape-scale restoration, community engagement and farmer partnerships, bringing home valuable insights to strengthen restoration efforts across Tasmania.
Most importantly, the AGM was a reminder of the power of partnerships – with landholders, Aboriginal communities, industry, volunteers and collaborators. Together, we are creating meaningful, on-ground impact: from improving soil health and sustainable pest management, to supporting cultural practices and knowledge.
Finally, we are thrilled to launch our Annual Report 2024/25, which highlights the breadth and impact of our work. You can read it here.
And for all those who asked how you can help NRM South do more, here are some ways to get involved and support our work:
- Donate directly via our new donation portal (additional webpage updates coming soon)
- Support us through One Percent for the Planet
- Join our Recycle Rewards program – including our project to help protect Bruny Island’s Little Penguins.
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us. Your encouragement and connection give us strength, and together we are building a resilient, thriving future for southern Tasmania.