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Gippsland Water strengthens first nations representation with aboriginal board delegates

Gippsland Water has welcomed Glenn Pellegrin as an Independent Aboriginal Delegate and Laurie Marks as Board Committee Independent Aboriginal Delegate, enhancing First Nations representation and strengthening partnerships with Traditional Owners.

By news@gippsland - 17th February 2025 - Back to News

Gippsland Water has welcomed Glenn Pellegrin to its Board as an Independent Aboriginal Delegate and Laurie Marks as Board Committee independent Aboriginal delegate. Managing director Sarah Cumming said Mr Pellegrin's appointment would further strengthen the recognition and inclusion of First Nations perspectives as part of Gippsland Water's decision-making processes.

Gippsland Water Board Chair Tom Mollenkopf AO, independent Aboriginal Board delegate Glenn Pellegrin and Managing Director Sarah Cumming

First nations advocacy

Ms Cumming said, "Glenn's insights will broaden our understanding of the priorities of First Nations people and help to reflect those in our projects and initiatives. We're thrilled to have him joining us. Having a diverse range of viewpoints ensures our Board's decisions align with what our customers and local communities' want," Ms Cumming said.

Mr Pellegrin, a proud Ngarrindjeri/Narungga man, said he was passionate about advocating for local First Nations communities. "The Board Delegate position is an opportunity for me to follow in the footsteps of Elders who care for all Mob, help address systemic issues and achieve positive outcomes."

"My previous experience has included multiple roles at Melbourne University, Aboriginal Housing Victoria and the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation. I look forward to working alongside the Gippsland Water Board, and continuing to draw on my strategic mindset, passion, and experience," Mr Pellegrin said.

Aboriginal leadership strengthened

Laurie Marks will sit alongside Gippsland Water's Board subcommittees as Board committee independent Aboriginal delegate. Mr Marks lives in West Gippsland and has worked in the Latrobe Valley. He said the new role would add to his existing experiences as a member of local Boards and organisations.

"Serving on local Boards has deepened my connection to the community and its diverse needs, and I look forward to adding to my journey with this new role. My experiences include chairing Boards with a focus on sports partnerships and hubs, and I'm passionate about critical issues like men's health," Mr Marks said.

Honoring first nations

Ms Cumming said Gippsland Water was proud of its ongoing partnership with the Gunaikurnai and Bunurong people, the Traditional Owners of the land it operates on. "We recognise the Traditional Owners strong cultural connection to the land waterways and the importance of collaboration."

Gippsland Water is one of several Victorian water corporations to appoint an independent Aboriginal Board delegate. For information about Gippsland Water's work with First Nations communities, visit Gippsland Water website.

Pictures from Gippsland Water website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com