Regional leaders invited to help shape the future of the Hills and Fleurieu

People with a passion for the Hills and Fleurieu and an interest in caring for the region's land, water and nature are encouraged to nominate for membership of the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board. 

The Board is seeking local leaders to help guide decisions on some of the region's most important challenges and opportunities, including climate resilience, water security, biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture and invasive species management. 

Appointed by the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Landscape Board members bring a diverse range of skills, experiences and perspectives to strategic decision-making. 

Applications are encouraged from women, First Nations people, young adults and people from culturally diverse backgrounds. 

Current Board member Dr Chris West said serving on the Board had been an opportunity to contribute to the future of a region he deeply values. 

"As a lifelong conservationist, veterinarian and former zoo director, I wanted to support efforts to balance the needs of humans and nature across the beautiful and precious Hills and Fleurieu region," Dr West said. 

"The decisions we make today will influence the future of our landscapes, farms, waterways and native species for generations to come." Dr West said one of the most rewarding aspects of being a Board member had been seeing the impact of collaboration across the region. 

“Community support and collaboration is vital to our success," he said. "The Stewardship Program is a great example. It grew out of the Cudlee Creek fire recovery exercise and has helped land managers adopt integrated approaches to improving the health of their properties." 

Dr West encouraged anyone considering applying to put their hand up. 

"There is a need for people with a range of skills and experiences," he said. "What's important is having a genuine passion for the region, a willingness to think strategically and a commitment to working respectfully with others." 

Nominations for Landscape Board member positions opened on 13 July and close at 5pm on 16 August 2026. Successful applicants will be appointed for terms of up to four years commencing 31 January 2027. 

While this recruitment process includes opportunities on the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board, positions are also available on the Eyre Peninsula, Kangaroo Island, Limestone Coast, Murraylands and Riverland, Northern and Yorke, and South Australia Arid Lands landscape boards. For more information or to apply, visit www.landscape.sa.gov.au/board-nominations

Members of the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board recently joined Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Emily Bourke and Member for Kavel Matt Schulz to celebrate the launch of the Hills and Fleurieu Regional Landscape Plan 2026–2031.