Gascoyne/Murchison Strategy board reappointed

27/12/01
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance today announced the reappointment of a board to oversee the next stage of the acclaimed Gascoyne/Murchison Strategy (GMS).
Mr Chance commended the previous board on completing its first three-year term and guiding the strategy to deliver significant benefits to the region.
"A shift away from a reliance on wool to other grazing production systems and the wide-scale introduction of improved grazing management for domestic and feral animals have been among the achievements across the region," he said.
"Another GMS success story has been an initiative to plug uncontrolled artesian water bores, which are now being used more sustainably for stock water supplies. As a result the Carnarvon Artesian Basin is also now able to maintain sustainable yields."
Mr Chance said the strategy's on-ground success was the result of an integrated whole-of-government approach and strong support from the pastoral community.
"The region is to be congratulated on pulling together to meet and deal with its challenges," he said.
The new board retains the previous chairman, Ian Laurance; pastoral representatives Tom Morrissey and Ken Baston; Rural Business Development Corporation chairman Ross Donald; environmental representative Kelly Gillen; and Mark Lewis as director and Government representative.
Mr Chance acknowledged former members Murchison representative Kim Keogh, agricultural consultant Clint Lester and Gary Chappell of RSM Bird Cameron for their efforts.
"The next phase of the Gascoyne/Murchison Strategy will be just as challenging as we try to build on the success of the initial phase and tackle some of the major impediments still facing the rangelands," he said.
"I am keen for the strategy to examine future models of land use that will meet the needs of everyone living in the pastoral and wider rangeland communities.
"The State Government is committed to fostering economic and social development in these vast areas and I encourage the board to maintain its enthusiasm and dedication to achieving these goals."
Mr Chance will visit the region in early March to discuss the progress of the strategy and a range of issues facing the rangelands.
He said grass roots contact was essential to maintain the partnerships between industry, Government and the wider community to meet regional needs.
Minister's office 9213 6700