We are delighted to have appointed Jackson Chatfield as our first independent Aboriginal board delegate.
This new delegate role is a 12-month position designed to provide insights and connections to Aboriginal and Traditional Owner perspectives about water and Country.
“This is vital as we continue to deliver on the Water is Life roadmap through the return of water to Registered Aboriginal Parties via the provision of cultural water licences,” said Elisa Hunter, General Manager Strategy, People and Culture.
“It also supports our continued efforts to influence policy direction in this space to ensure clarity for all water users.”
Our new delegate Jackson is a proud Gunditjmara-Kirrae Whurrong man, guided by a deep connection to his heritage. Born and raised on Country in Warrnambool, South-West Victoria, he moved to Melbourne in 2016 seeking broader opportunities.
Now back on Country, and based in Port Fairy, Jackson is committed to advancing cultural and environmental goals. He’s currently an Executive Officer for the Birrarung Council, which advises government on protecting and improving the Birrarung/Yarra River.
Jackson is interested in managing water security and sustainability because getting this right will positively impact our communities in a changing climate.
"Southern Rural Water has a vital role to play,” Jackson said. “Caring for Country needs us to broadly consider how biodiversity, cultural heritage, land and water care and management are all interconnected.”
Water has been an intrinsic interest in Jackson’s career, who started his working life as a plumber.
“I guess I started at the end of the pipeline and worked my way up to strategic consideration of how we best manage water in southern Victorian regions,” Jackson said.
He has also gained practical experience in environmental leadership as the Statewide Aboriginal Landcare Facilitator with the Victorian Landcare Program.
"This journey has highlighted the importance of Traditional Owners' roles in water management and the opportunities to make real changes in the sector,” Jackson said.
To learn more about Jackson, his connection to his Country and his thoughts on Australia’s cultural heritage click here.