RDA Orana Welcomes New Board Members

Regional Development Australia Orana (RDA Orana) CEO, Justine Campbell has welcomed the appointment of two new members to the Orana region board, both with strong ties within the communities they live in and advocates for social and economic development in the region.

Ms Campbell said after receiving a large number of nominations and conducting a thorough recruitment and interview process, Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager, David Kirby and Bourke Administrative Services business owner, Lisa Crothers had been appointed.

“The level of interest and the calibre of nominations that we received was incredibly encouraging, and the new board reflects the high degree of business acumen and community connection which can be found across the Orana region,” she said.

“Our two new board members are replacing outgoing members - Taronga Western Plains Zoo Director, Steve Hinks and Dubbo entrepreneur, Kerrieanne Nichols. I thank them both for the value and experience they brought to the Board over the many years they served.

“Our new board members bring diverse skills and networks to our independent organisation, which has a strong history of advocating for projects to grow and diversify the Orana region.”

David is the General Manager of Brewarrina Shire Council. He is a proud First Nation Ngemba and Maraurra traditional owner and grazier. Born and raised in Brewarrina, David’s life has revolved around water with a deep spiritual connection as a custodian of the oldest man-made structure on earth, Baiame Ngunnghu (Brewarrina Fish Traps). 

David has a passion for the community and the town of Brewarrina. In the community space he has led volunteer positions such as Chair and Board Member of the Brewarrina Local Aboriginal Land Council was named Reconciliation Australia's National Governance Award winner, President of Brewarrina Local Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, President of Brewarrina School Reference Group and is involved in many other sporting clubs and groups.

Lisa Crothers is the owner of Bourke Administrative Services, she is a fifth-generation Bourke resident. In 1996 Lisa established her own business providing financial/administrative and management support to a diverse group of local businesses, primary producers, trades and local government. During this time, Lisa has undertaken the management function of a residential aged care facility; a disability employment service and a number of indigenous NGOs – all based in western NSW.

Outside of her paid employment, Lisa has been actively involved with local organisations for the betterment of Bourke and the district including being part of Back O Bourke Ltd which instigated the building of the Back O Bourke Exhibition Centre, 20+ years on the Board of Bourke Rural Financial Counselling Service, Bourke Rotary Club and various sporting clubs such as the local race, rugby and pony clubs.

Ms Campbell welcomed David and Lisa to the team and said it was wonderful to have board members from across the region representing their communities.

For more information contact:
RDA Orana CEO, Justine Campbell
ceo@rdaorana.org.au or 0409 851 488