NIC thanks former MDBA Chair for his leadership and welcomes new chair to the role
13 December 2024, Canberra ACT: National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) expressed its sincere gratitude to Sir Angus Houston, who has led the MDBA since 2020. Under Sir Angus' leadership, significant progress has been made in fostering better relationships with communities across the Basin, prioritising transparency, and restoring trust in the management of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.
"Sir Angus Houston's dedication to listening to Basin communities and his focus on repairing relationships and trust have been crucial during a period of significant uncertainty and challenge," said Zara Lowien, CEO of NIC. "His leadership has been instrumental in providing a steady hand through the complexities and misinformation, and we sincerely thank him for his tireless work and commitment to the future of the Basin environments, communities and industries."
NIC also welcomes the appointment of Daryl Quinlivan AO as the new Chair of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) and thanks, Sir Angus Houston for his leadership. Mr Quinlivan’s extensive experience, uniquely positions him at this critical time in Murray Darling Basin Plan implementation, to guide the MDBA through their important work of evaluating and reshaping the future management plan for Australia’s most vital water resource and food bowl, the Murray Darling Basin.
"We welcome someone of Daryl Quinlivan's calibre to take on this important role at this critical time," said Ms Lowien. "His deep understanding of water management, how policy can impact regional and rural communities and his experience in balancing both environmental and agricultural needs will be invaluable as the MDBA navigates the challenges ahead."
“With the Sustainable Diversion Limits now achieved, we welcome further discussions with Mr Quinlivan and the MDBA on how the next phase of management can add value to the environmental gains made so far, through complementary measures which can provide win-win solutions for all.”
NIC looks forward to continuing its collaborative work with the MDBA under the leadership and the new Board, as the myriad of challenges confronting communities, industry and the environment will require collaboration and pragmatism to continue to ensure we have a healthy working Basin and communities, with innovative and sustainable agricultural industries.
ENDS
Media Contact: Zara Lowien, CEO National Irrigators’ Council
0427521399