Farewell to our Project Director, Michelle Young
After nearly eight years as Project Director for Sustainable Farms, we bid farewell to Michelle Young whose vision and leadership have guided the project to become a leading force in conservation on farms.
Michelle joined the Sustainable Farms initiative at the Australian National University with a vision to bridge research and on-ground practice change, and she leaves behind a legacy of collaboration, innovation, and measurable change. Under her direction, the project has grown into a nationally acclaimed program that has undertaken world-class research on the integration of biodiversity conservation with agricultural production, and shared these learnings with over 13,000 participants at educational community events and forums. Her passion for facilitating collaborative partnerships, and supporting farmers with evidence-based tools for conservation and productivity, has made a significant contribution to improving conservation on farms in the critically endangered woodlands of the sheep-wheat belt.
Michelle will continue her commitment to land stewardship as she steps into the role of CEO at the National Landcare Network.
The expertise within the Sustainable Farms team ensures the program is well placed to continue its important work into the future. Professor David Lindenmayer will continue in his role as Lead Scientist, providing internationally-recognised expertise in landscape ecology and biodiversity conservation. With strong skills across research and community engagement, the Sustainable Farms team will continue grow the project’s impact.
The Sustainable Farms team thanks Michelle for her vision, passion, and tireless commitment, and wishes her every success in the next chapter of her career.