Flowerdale’s Kate Hawkins passion for the natural environment and climate change made her a fitting recipient of the 2015 Ken Sampson Memorial Fairley Leadership Scholarship, Goulburn Broken CMA Chair Murray Chapman said at a presentation last Thursday.
The scholarship was established in 2010 to honour former Goulburn Broken CMA staff member Ken Sampson's contributions to natural resource management, community participation and leadership during a career spanning more than 30 years. Mr Sampson passed away in October 2009.
The Goulburn Broken CMA has also been a long-time supporter of the Fairley Program and the scholarship supports an individual who demonstrates passion, initiative and a strong track record in the area of environmental protection and sustainable agriculture to participate in the program.
Mr Chapman said Ms Hawkins has actively contributed to environmental projects and environmental education with the Strath Creek Landcare Group, the Upper Goulburn Landcare Network and Yea Wetlands Committee of Management.
“Kate’s work with Landcare has helped raise the profile of Landcare at a local, state and national level,” Mr Chapman said.
“Kate is passionate about the environment and climate change, and she believes natural resource management (NRM) bodies, such as the Goulburn Broken CMA, and Landcare groups are crucial to educating and supporting people to minimise and mitigate against the effects of climate change.
“Kate plans to continue to expand her involvement in Landcare, and she hopes to develop and complete NRM projects that engage the community and promote sustainable land use.”
Mr Chapman said Ms Hawkins was also very involved as a volunteer with the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
“Kate has supported the community as an active fire fighter for the past 10 years and received the National Emergency Medal for service during the 2009 bushfires,” he said.
“Kate also helped to raise the profile of the CFA by writing articles and columns for newspapers in her local area,” Mr Chapman said. “Kate is another very worthy recipient of the Ken Sampson Memorial Fairley Leadership Scholarship.”
For more information about the Fairley Leadership Program visit: http://www.fairleyleadership.com.au/