National Trust presents vision for Currumbin partnership

In response to calls within the local community to review governance relationships, the National Trust of Queensland and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary have proposed a new cooperative partnership model which will help guide the future of the Sanctuary.

At a recent public meeting, National Trust of Queensland President, Dr John Jackson said, "although the two bodies would not split under the arrangement, the new partnership model would greatly improve the autonomy of Currumbin, while also continuing to ensure the protection of its natural and cultural heritage. Under the National Trust of Queensland, Currumbin’s heritage assets have been maintained for more than 32 years. I would like to see that the vision of Alex Griffiths can continue to be maintained for more than 100 years.”

“This arrangement can be achieved without changing legislation or the current governance – any changes would have been costly and time-consuming,” Dr Jackson said.

“Under the cooperative partnership, Currumbin will conclude the work of its Advisory Committee and seek a professional Board that can totally manage Currumbin and provide advice to the National Trust of Qld on finance and management.

“The Board will comprise of three National Trust representatives and four independent board members, this move recognises the unique status of Currumbin amongst the NTQ properties,” Dr Jackson said.

The CEO of Currumbin will be directly responsible to the Board and manage Currumbin completely, without reference to the NTQ Council. The NTQ Council will deal with the traditional heritage activities statewide.

“This partnership model addresses a number of concerns within the community – no land sales are planned or approved and the compliance with the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary Act also prevents any profit transfers.

“The next steps will include further meetings with local community members and elected representatives to develop the criteria for independent board member appointments,” Dr Jackson said.

“This option significantly improves current arrangements between the National Trust of Qld and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

“Most importantly, it will assist Currumbin in combining Alex Griffith’s vision with a strategic plan to be Australia’s most sustainable, conservation-based, coastal rainforest and native wildlife experience.”

19/06/2008