On 1 September, Bill Perrottet stepped down after 25 years as Group Representative for the Guyra Landcare Network (GLN), a sub-group of Southern New England Landcare Ltd, formerly known as the Malpas Catchment Group.
The GLN and SNEL would like to sincerely thank Bill for his outstanding contribution and dedicated volunteer service to Landcare over the past quarter of a century.
His commitment has helped shape both the local Landcare movement and the broader landscape of natural resource management across the region.
In addition to his role with GLN, Bill served for 12 years on the SNEL Board, culminating in his appointment as Chairperson in 2023.
Throughout his tenure, he has been a respected leader, advocate and mentor, supporting both volunteers and Landcare staff in the delivery of numerous projects and initiatives.
Bill played a key role in a range of significant projects, including the High Country Urban Biodiversity Project (2009-2012) and the Landscape Rehydration in the Malpas Catchment Project delivered in partnership with the Mulloon Institute (2022-2023).
During the 2019 drought, he worked closely with the Malpas Catchment Coordinator to deliver workshops focused on landscape rehydration and drought resilience.
Over the years, Bill has generously shared his knowledge and practical experience through field days, workshops, farm tours, presentations and numerous written and video case studies.
He has always been willing to open his property to fellow landholders and demonstrate the outcomes of sustainable land management practices.
A passionate advocate for healthy waterways, productive pastures and resilient farming systems, Bill has championed the protection of riparian areas and the benefits they provide to both livestock and the environment.
His innovative approaches to controlling Chilean Needle Grass have attracted wider attention, with his methods being featured by the New Zealand Landcare Trust as an example for landholders facing similar challenges.
Bill has also been a strong supporter of whole-farm planning and was instrumental in developing the Malpas Catchment Group's five-year action plan, helping to guide strategic priorities and on-ground works across the catchment.
While stepping down from the Group Representative role, Bill will continue to play an active part within the Guyra Landcare Network.
He is succeeded by Michael Colvin, who takes on the role of Group Representative.
Southern New England Landcare and the Guyra Landcare Network extend their heartfelt thanks to Bill for his 25 years of leadership, service and dedication.
His contribution has left a lasting legacy for the region's landscapes, waterways, farming communities and the many people involved in Landcare.
