The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is seeking applications from community members to nominate for membership of one of eight NSW Regional Advisory Committees.
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The advisory committees provide independent advice to the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) chief executive, NPWS directors and to the National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council.
NPWS executive director Robert Quirk said this is an excellent opportunity for community members with a strategic interest in caring for and protecting our environment and heritage to be involved in the management of national parks and reserves into the future.
“Advisory committees provide a vital link between NPWS and the broader community, with members contributing their expert knowledge and experience to inform park management and achieve conservation outcomes across NSW,” Mr Quirk said.
“The advisory committees are highly valued for their advice about NPWS policies, plans and activities, and for their input into draft plans of management under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
“We are seeking Aboriginal persons and community members with experience and expertise in one or more of the following areas: local government, conservation, Aboriginal cultural heritage, rural or regional issues, agriculture, ecotourism or ecologically sustainable visitor use, environmental education and non-Aboriginal cultural heritage conservation, or science qualifications in conservation biology, wildlife management or related disciplines,” Mr Quirk said.
The eight advisory committees cover every corner of New South Wales – the Blue Mountains, Hunter Central Coast (which includes the MidCoast Council area), South Coast, West, Greater Sydney, North Coast, Northern Inland and the Southern Ranges.
Members are appointed by the Minister for the Environment in a voluntary capacity for terms of up to four years.
Sitting fees are not paid, but approved expenses incurred in attending meetings or conducting regional advisory committee business are reimbursed by NPWS.
Applicants are merit selected based on their relevant expertise and experience, with nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people of non-English speaking background, and young people (aged between 18 and 25) highly valued for government boards and committees.
Applications close on Tuesday, May 1, 2018. Applications forms and more information can be obtained from the OEH website at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/NPWS/AdvisoryCommittees.htm. For more information email rac@environment.nsw.gov.au