The Kokatha Aboriginal Corporation Board is pleased to announce it has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer. David Whitelaw will join the KAC RNTBC team on Monday 27 November, after a comprehensive recruitment process.
David has previously been employed as CEO of Wirrimanu Aboriginal Corporation, in the East Kimberley desert region of Western Australia. He has also worked as an Executive Manager of Bush Heritage and is a Founding Director of the social enterprise Conservation Management Pty Ltd.
David says he’s looking forward to starting in his new role and working with the Kokatha community. ‘Kokatha has a great reputation, grounded by country and culture, and the community working together to grow the enterprises and partnerships for a better future for all.’
One of David’s priorities will be to meet with Kokatha community members and to listen, learn and deepen partnerships that accelerate efforts to protect Kokatha values. ‘The ongoing station work, the BHP partnership and future ranger opportunities, as well as working with Arid Recovery are strong interests of mine that will be keenly pursued.’
Dave and his partner Kirsti Melville will be based in Port Augusta and the couple is looking forward to exploring outback South Australia. ‘I have a deep appreciation of remote environments and respect for First Nations People and cultures,’ Dave says.
KAC Chairperson Carly Chamberlain says David’s passion lifelong passion for environmental protection and his commitment to supporting Native Title rights and interests make him an ideal fit for the position of Kokatha Chief Executive.
‘We are so happy to have David join the KAC team and we’re confident he will lead the Corporation through this exciting growth period, which will ultimately create significant benefit for all members of the Kokatha community.’
Carly also thanked Interim Chief Executive Glen Wingfield for his tireless efforts and achievements throughout the year.