Insights Forum 24: Celebrating progress, working together

Held at the Australian Academy of Science in Canberra’s Shine Dome, the event brought together our advisory groups to collaborate and engage in strategic discussions to support and advance Watertrust’s mission and initiatives.

There was an excited energy in the room and the day began with an address from Watertrust CEO Karen Hutchinson who spoke about rejuvenating the forum to better leverage the significant expertise of our two advisory bodies, and to tap into the renewed energy and capability of the Watertrust team moving forward.

From here, the advisory groups moved into their respective sessions. The Expert Advisory Panel examined early research underpinning Watertrust’s Equity, Fairness and Justice in Water Policy Project. The session was led by Watertrust’s Kane Aldridge and supported by Rod Marsh, who originally led the initiative while at Watertrust and still retains a lead role in the project team.

Members of the project team joined the session to present a summary of their research findings. The wide-ranging perspectives and specialised skills of the participants sparked lively discussion and proved invaluable. Their insights are set to inform the development of a policy paper, which will be put forward to help inform policy makers – particularly as key milestones for the Basin Plan and National Water Agreement are looming.

Meanwhile, the Influence Advisory Committee came together to re-examine the evolving and emerging stakeholder landscape in all its complexities. The Committee held a robust discussion on key areas where they can best provide support in identifying new initiatives and connecting the Watertrust team with key stakeholders. Led by Watertrust’s Peter Horne and Kate Peake, the committee stepped through current initiatives such as those in Upper Murrumbidgee and Northern Australia. Together, they addressed challenges within the projects and gave strategic advice for future engagement.

Reflecting on the event, it is clear that the networks and experience the committee members bring is invaluable to ongoing project success across geographical and political landscapes.

When providing feedback, one attendee highlighted the importance of remaining engaged with Watertrust's mission.

“The workshop was a great chance to stay connected with national thought leaders and to be able to support an important policy agenda,” said the attendee.

The event was also an opportunity to welcome three new staff members to Watertrust, including our newest Principal Chris Cumming, who brings 30 years of experience in connecting government policy, community values, science, and a systems-based resilience approach to improving catchment health. Her extensive knowledge and well-established networks span the agriculture, water, and natural resource management sectors.

Policy Analyst Leila Noble is also new to the Watertrust team, beginning with a focus on the Upper Murrumbidgee initiative in the lead up to a Decision Sketch Workshop in November. Leila is currently completing a PhD on adaptive approaches to water security for regional towns in Australia facing climate change and other pressures. She has been involved as a researcher on government and academic projects and has been exposed to diverse perspectives on water management. Also joining the team, Executive and Communications Officer Sophie Eickelman has broadened Watertrust’s capacity, providing a strong background in administration and strategic communications.

The Insights Forum was brief but powerful, fostering deeper connections across our technical and advisory experts and the Watertrust team, setting the stage for continued growth and impact. As we look towards 2025, Watertrust remains committed to helping Australians work together to achieve better and fairer water outcomes.