The CRC for Developing Northern Australia welcomes a new Board member
The Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA) welcomes a new Board Director, Mr Duane Fraser, following the resignation of Mr Ronald (Ricky) Archer.
Mr Ricky Archer announced his resignation following his appointment as the first ever First Nations Director of Parks Australia.
Mr Duane Fraser is a proud Wulgurukaba and Bidjara man and brings a wealth of experience in advising Commonwealth and state governments on matters relating to Indigenous affairs and environmental policy.
Mr Fraser also serves as Chair of the Federal Minister for the Environment's Indigenous Advisory Committee and is on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Board, Director of Tourism and Events Queensland, and Deputy Chair of the National Environmental Science Program.
The CRCNA is delivering industry-led research and development that de-risks investment in Northern Australia with a focus on First Nations led business development, agriculture, aquaculture, water security and health service delivery.
The CRCNA is a key initiative of the Australian Government’s developing Northern Australia agenda and is investing $75 million of Commonwealth funds over 10 years from 2017 to 2027.
To date, the CRCNA has created over $154 million in research investments for 118 Northern Australian development projects and collaborated with more than 517 project partners.
Quotes attributed to Chair of the CRCNA, Ms Sheriden Morris
“The appointment of Mr Fraser will further enhance the capability and depth of experience of the CRCNA Board.
“Mr Fraser is highly respected for his efforts in the advancement of Indigenous peoples of the world, empowering the protection of delicate biocultural land and seascapes, heritage and cultural expressions.
“This experience is critical as we progress our Activating the Indigenous Estate program and translating science research into real-world impacts.
“Mr Fraser’s appointment is also very special to the organisation as his late mother, the great Gigari George, served as an inaugural Board member for the CRCNA. She contributed a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainably developing Northern Australia.
“On behalf of the Board we sincerely thank our fellow director and friend, Mr Ricky Archer, on his recent appointment as the Director of Parks Australia and wish him all the best on this important and exciting chapter.
“Mr Archer is a remarkable leader who has provided invaluable knowledge and experience to the CRCNA, especially in land conservation and sea management.”
Quotes attributed to Mr Duane Fraser
“Gigari was a remarkable woman who lived her life with purpose. A warrior woman - wife, mother, daughter, friend and leader. She held above all else a deep love for Country, Culture and its Peoples. A Saltwater Woman - passionate and driven.
“It’s an honour to continue her legacy in the important role of sustainably developing Northern Australia. We want to ensure there is improved social and economic prosperity for the people who live in the north.
“I’m excited to join the CRCNA Board at this important time for the organisation as the true impacts of investment into research and development is being understood.”
Quotes attributed to Mr Ricky Archer
“It’s been an honour to serve on the CRCNA Board since the organisation was established in 2017.
“Our investments into industry-led research and development have created new technologies, products and services which address industry issues, making a positive difference to those who live, work and invest in Northern Australia.
“Mr Fraser will be a terrific addition to the CRCNA Board as the organisation continues its important work of de-risking investment for the incredible region that is Northern Australia.”
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Media enquiries: enquiry@crcna.com.au
Full list of CRCNA board members: crcna.com.au
22 February 2024