CCMA appoints new chair, board member

THE Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) has welcomed the announcement of Cath Jenkins as its new chair and board director, as well as the appointment of Michael Watson as a board member.

Ms Jenkins is a local community member in the Corangamite region. Her family resides on their farm in South Purrumbete, where they operate a free-range egg business and livestock operation. She also works as an independent agribusiness consultant.

Previously, Ms Jenkins has worked as an agribusiness manager with ANZ and as an area manager with Fonterra, where she worked closely with farming clients in the Colac and Cobden districts.

She was previously Dairy Industry Leadership Group chair and past treasurer of Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West.

The CCMA says Ms Jenkins’ extensive experience in agricultural business paired with her passion for the Corangamite community, and environmental conservation makes her readily equipped to lead the authority into the future.

Over the past 25 years, Mr Watson has held several senior management positions within government business enterprises responsible for providing essential services for a significant part of Victoria’s community.

Following 10 years with the State Electricity Commission of Victoria/Powercor, Mr Watson joined Barwon Water, where he held senior positions as chief financial officer and company secretary for 25 years.

“Cath brings significant experience in the Agriculture business and a close connection to community which will be of immense value in guiding the Corangamite CMA,” authority chair John Riddiford said

“Along with the board and entire staff at the Corangamite CMA, I look forward to working alongside Cath to continue to deliver land, water and biodiversity initiatives for the Corangamite Region and community.

“We also warmly welcome the new appointment of board member Michael Watson; we are pleased to have him joining the authority and the extensive experience he brings focused on delivering strong governance, financial sustainability, matched with customer service and environmental management.”

Mr Riddiford expressed his deep appreciation for the contribution of the outgoing chair, Alice Knight.

“Since her appointment in 2000, Alice has drawn upon her extensive experience and passion for the community and our region to provide wise and steady stewardship for the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority,” he said.