North East Water has announced the appointment of Taungurung man Shayne Rodgers as an independent Aboriginal delegate of the Board of Directors, commencing July 2024.
Mr Rodgers is North East Water’s third Aboriginal delegate to be engaged since 2019.
North East Water Chair, Stephen Brown, said Mr Rodgers has an extensive background in project management at the Taungurung Land and Waters Council and involvement in community-based initiatives focused on gambling harm prevention and policy creation.
“Mr Rodgers also has more than two decades of expertise in water, sewage and recycled water systems.
“Shayne will be able to provide insight into matters relating to urban water management and its connection to Traditional Owners.
“Not only does the delegate role provide greater perspectives in the Board’s strategic discussions, but it also continues to strengthen our relationships with First Nations communities,” Mr Brown said.
Mr Rodgers said, “I’m honoured to serve as an Independent Aboriginal Delegate, bringing my skills in community engagement and water management alongside the expertise gained from North East Water.
“This experience will enhance my ability to advocate for culturally sensitive and sustainable water practices.
“In this role, I will deepen my connection to water, drawing from my Aboriginal cultural heritage to inform decision making processes, ensuring that Aboriginal values and knowledge are central to water management strategies.
“I aim to represent Aboriginal perspectives and contribute to the well-being and progress of our entire community through inclusive and collaborative approaches,” Mr Rodgers said.
North East Water was the first water corporation in Victoria to introduce the Independent Aboriginal Board Delegate Program, which is now being introduced by other water corporations and catchment management authorities.
The program supports the Victorian Government’s Water for Victoria policy of increasing opportunities for participation, decision-making and resources for Traditional Owners in water management.
Mr Brown said, “We are excited about the program’s success to date, with our most recent independent delegate, Yorta Yorta Duduroa Dhargal man Johnny Murray, appointed by the Minister to a full directorship to North East Water’s board in October 2023.
“I am extremely excited that Shayne is joining the team and I’m looking forward to his first Board meeting in July.”
Featured image: North East Water’s Aboriginal delegate, Shayne Rodgers. Courtesy of North East Water.
