From the CEO
Stronger water future to address environmental
imperative
As I’ve been watching the news of the devasting fires in the US in the last week, I’ve been transported back to the burnt Australian skylines early this year. Remember that? Back when bushfires were our focus.
This reminder of a permanent change to our environment confirms the importance of our focus on biodiversity conservation and one of the largest commitments the Ross Trust has made.
This month we have signed off on a commitment of $1 million over five years, to be amongst the philanthropic organisations committing to a non-partisan, neutral national policy body to guide the future management of our fresh water resources in this country.
There could scarcely be a more important policy issue in Australia right now.
The plan is for the National Independent Water and Catchment Policy Centre to transform water and catchment policymaking.
While we are all still in lockdown in Victoria it is sometimes hard to look more than a few weeks ahead, but I believe this initiative will take us forward in great strides.
I would like to acknowledge the leadership of The Myer, Ian Potter and Colonial Foundations for creating a vision for this Centre of the future, which was so clear and compelling, resulting in other philanthropy organisations also committing funds to get it off the ground. If you want to know more, please read the story below.
Speaking of leadership, I was thrilled to learn SANE Australia CEO Jack Heath will be the new CEO of Philanthropy Australia from early next year. Congratulations Jack. Outgoing CEO Sarah Davies has shown incredible strength, tenacity and clarity and led PA into a new era with a particular focus on more and better philanthropy. I thank her for her grounded leadership over the past five years and look forward to working with Jack.
This edition of the update also showcases our latest impact investment; an inspiring education model created by the Melbourne City Mission, and a timely commitment to a program strengthening school and community connections to protect some of the most vulnerable students in the City of Hume.
Sarah Hardy
CEO, the Ross Trust
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