Meet the Board
Meet our esteemed board of directors at The Wetlands Centre Cockburn, each of whom plays a pivotal role in steering our mission forward. Each of our Board members contribute their diverse expertise and unwavering commitment to the Centre, collectively championing our mission towards wetlands and environmental education and conservation.
Prof Treena Burgess
Chair
Prof Treena Burgess, serving as our Chair, is the Research Director at the Harry Butler Institute. She brings with her a distinguished expertise in plant pathology and biosecurity, having contributing significantly to Murdoch University’s research efforts.
Gina Pickering
Deputy Chair
Gina Pickering is a consultant who has led cultural heritage planning in Western Australia for registered sites including wetlands and rivers since 2006. She has a deep interest in water and co-cultural values. Gina is PhD candidate researching the agency of water at Walliabup Bibra Lake.
Bart Houwen
Board Member
Bart Houwen actively engages with the community, driving forward the Centre’s vision and outreach programs. He is a veteran Cockburn councillor and loves working with the community—he volunteers on the boards of other Community-run organisations.
Paul Hansen
Treasurer
Paul is a retired senior public servant who has undertaken the Australian Institute of Company Directors course. His experience provides valuable input to management of the Centre. Paul places strong importance on governance and compliance. As Treasurer, he is focussed on our financial health and sustainable funding practices that facilitate long-term planning.
Felicity Bairstow
Secretary
Felicity is a dedicated environmental advocate with over 20 years of experience conserving bushland and wetlands in Perth. She has played a pivotal role in the Save Beeliar Wetlands campaign and continues to work on various conservation and community projects.
Paul Neville
Board Member
Paul is a Senior Lecturer and molecular ecologist at Curtin University, with research expertise focussed on helping threatened species and improving restoration outcomes. Paul is an environmental policy expert with extensive experience in strategic conservation planning.
Michael Coote
Board Member
Michael, with a PhD in aquatic ecology, has been coordinating wetland conservation efforts and advising on environmental impacts for over 20 years at DBCA. He is also our Conference convenor. His expertise is crucial in our wetlands education efforts.
Peter Rattigan
Board Member
Peter has extensive experience in land management, focusing on sustainable practices. His expertise strengthens our restoration projects and is helping us pursue effective landcare projects.
Lakshmi Kanchi
Board Member
Lakshmi, known by her pen name SoulReserve, is an award-winning poet and environmental advocate. She was the inaugural Poet-in-Residence at The Wetlands Centre. Laksh enriches our educational programs with her artistic vision and dedication to cultural inclusivity.
Cr. Philip Eva
Co-opted Board Member
Cr Philip Eva, from the City of Cockburn, has been a steadfast member of The Wetlands Centre Cockburn board for many years. His extensive experience in local government and unwavering dedication to community service provide invaluable insights into local policy and governance. Philip’s long-standing commitment ensures continuity and stability, fostering strong community connections and effective strategic planning for the centre’s initiatives and conservation efforts. His presence on the board significantly enhances our ability to advocate for and strengthen environmental education, community engagement, and sustainability practices, but elavates the Centre's role as a significant asset to the City's environmental and sustainibility vision.
Advancing Wetlands Education and Conservation for a Sustainable Future
At The Wetlands Centre Cockburn, our board members' diverse expertise and unwavering dedication form the backbone of our mission to conserve and restore vital wetland ecosystems. With their collective leadership, we continue to foster community engagement, implement innovative conservation practices, and advocate for sustainable environmental ideas. Together, we strive to protect and enhance the natural beauty, native flora footprint and ecological health of our wetlands for future generations. Join us in our efforts to make a lasting impact on the environment and our community.
