In 2025, WACMN is working with a Regional Reference Group (RRG) to build a deeper understanding of coastal and marine stewardship across Western Australia.
The group meets monthly to explore the future needs of regional coastal and marine communities, while also engaging locally to identify on-the-ground priorities.
The group includes:
• GASCOYNE: Grace Keast, Sea Shepherd, Exmouth
• PILBARA: Kelly Howlett, Care for Hedland
• MIDWEST: Josh Burney, NACC Geraldton
• SOUTH WEST: Mandy Polley, Nature Conservation Margaret River Region
• SOUTH COAST: Peter Barnes, Torbay Catchment Group
Still in its early stages, the group aims to act as a conduit for shared agenda-setting—grounded in regionally driven priorities—for stewardship in WA.
The purpose of the RRG is to build common ground through integrated stewardship by:
• Fostering collaboration across regions statewide
• Initiating cross-sector partnerships
• Strengthening connections across the state
• Sharing knowledge and best practices
The RRG will present at WACMN’s Coastal Forum in October 2025.
We plan to broaden representation to include more sub-regional voices over time, so if you’re interested in getting involved, we’d love to hear from you.