Catchment authority chair, board members stepping down

CORANGAMITE Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) chair Cath Jenkins is one of four long-term board members stepping down from their roles.

The CCMA announced the departures of Ms Jenkins and Fiona Cumming, Ken Latta and Lia Sarto last week.

They have collectively contributed more than 20 years of service to the Corangamite region environment.

Ms Jenkins has chaired the CCMA board since 2021 and has held a similar position with Vic Catchments, the peak body representing the state’s 10 catchment management authorities.

BOTTOM: Cath Jenkins, Fiona Cumming, Lia Sarto, Amber Clarke and Ken Latta.

In a statement announcing the departures, the CCMA said Ms Jenkins’s tenure had been marked by strategic vision, strong governance, and a deep commitment to community, sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.

“Cath’s leadership has ensured the CMA remains deeply connected to its regional community, championing innovative approaches to natural resource management and actively supporting Landcare and rural women’s networks,” said CEO Dr Amber Clarke.

“Her presence and care for staff have made a lasting impact.”

TOP: Cath Jenkins accepts the Nature Positive Award won by Vic Catchments at last year’s Banksia sustainability awards.

The statement said that as chair of Vic Catchments, Ms Jenkins played a key role in fostering sector-wide collaboration and elevating the profile of catchment management authorities at state and national levels.

It said Dr Cumming, Ms Sarto and Mr Latta had each brought “unique expertise and passion” to the organisation.

Ms Sarto contributed commercial acumen and a strong commitment to Ramsar wetland protection, while Mr Latta offered deep public sector experience and insightful governance direction – particularly as chair of the audit and risk committee, it said.

Dr Cumming contributed governance and health sector leadership while driving improvements in board processes and championing Landcare and sustainable agriculture, the statement added.

“On behalf of our staff, partners and stakeholders, I sincerely thank ourt chair and all of our outgoing members for their incredible contribution,” Dr Clarke said.

“Each has helped shape our strategic direction and strengthen our governance.”

New board members are appointed by the State Government’s Minister for Water following a public application process.