ABOUT US
ABOUT DESERT CHANNELS GROUP
The Desert Channels Group is comprised of three entities: Desert Channels Queensland; DC Solutions and The Desert Channels Foundation.
Desert Channels Queensland, along with 56 regional bodies Australia-wide, was founded on a Commonwealth initiative that established community groups to deliver natural resource management regionally.
Since its inception in 2002, the DCQ team has delivered projects through a range of funding programs with landholders, local government schools, Landcare groups, catchment groups, traditional owners and NGOs.
As an incorporated group DCQ operates under a constitution. It is supported by our commercial arm DC Solutions and The Desert Channels Foundation.
MISSION STATEMENT
Igniting the passion for the Outback; conserving its natural wonders.
VISION STATEMENT
Future generations value and improve our unique landscape.
OUR ETHOS
Working as a team, thinking as an organisation, acting as a community business.
STRATEGIC PLAN
Our Strategy focuses on ensuring we have what is required to fulfil our Mission and Vision within the framework of our Ethos.
THE BOARD
The DCQ Board consists of four Directors and a Chair elected by members of the Association. They meet regularly to provide strategic direction to the organisation, and to ensure that available funding is used in line with community priorities for the sustainable management of the natural resources of the region.
Board members are voted in for a three year term through a members’ secret ballot. The Board determines what specific qualifications and experience are required in light of the needs and aims of the Association at the time. The rules governing the operation of the Association are set out in the Constitution.
The Board holds regular teleconferences and meets face to face four times a year. It complies with all legal requirements regarding conflicts of interest and related party transactions, and undergoes independent reviews and biennial organisational reviews.
The Directors are happy to discuss related matters or community issues at any time.
ANDREW DRYSDALE
Chair of the board
A former Charleville district grazier, immediate past CEO of NRM Regions Queensland, current Chair of the Lake Eyre Basin Ministerial Forum Community Advisory Committee, Andrew stepped into the DCQ Chair role in November 2018.
Read more Equally at home in the corridors of Parliament House or around the back of a mob of sheep, Andrew is acutely aware of the challenges facing small, remote NRM organisations like DCQ. Show less
MIKE PRATT
Vice Chair
Mike and his wife Sue own and manage a cattle trading operation SW of Longreach where they run Merino sheep, commercial goats, a small Angus stud. They have 40,000 hectares across three properties – Waroona, Bellfield and Ban Ban. Read more Mike is passionate about the environmental welfare and sustainability of the DCQ region and strongly supports the efforts of all involved to rein in and contain the spread of all Weeds of National Significance. Show less
John Ogg
Director of the Board
John Ogg is a man deeply rooted in the pastoral landscapes of Western Queensland. He has recently been appointed as the new director of the Desert Channels Group, filling the vacancy left by the late Vaughan Johnson. With a life steeped in the traditions and challenges of rural Australia, John brings a blend of hands-on experience and a strong sense of commitment to the organisation.
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Through his new role, John Ogg hopes to give back to the community and landscape that have shaped him, saying, “All I want to see is the DCQ teams continue on doing what they’re doing. It’s a breath of fresh air to all that country out there.” With a lifetime spent in Western Queensland, John Ogg is a steward of the land in the truest sense. And as he steps into this new role at DCG, he not only brings his practical experience but also a heartfelt desire to contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for the Desert Channels Region.
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GEORGE GORRINGE
Board Member
Born in Innamincka, George then moved to Windorah where he went to school. After leaving school, he went droving. He then gained experience managing different properties around the region and worked as head stockman.
Read more George was a founding member of the Cooper Creek advisory committee which consisted of graziers, conservation representatives, oil and gas and irrigators. He also sat on the Cooper Creek Catchment Committee and the LEB Advisory Committee. As a Mithaka elder, George was instrumental in setting up the Lake Eyre Basin Traditional Owner Alliance with 13 different TO groups and is still involved. Show less
ROD WILLIAMS
Treasurer
Rod grew up on sheep properties in the Longreach district before commencing a career as a land valuer with the (then) Department of Lands. During this time he developed expertise in land valuation, Crown land management, rural and regional recovery programs and natural resource management initiatives.
Read more Rod brings the knowledge of the social, economic and natural resource management challenges facing the region, and a strategic understanding of the dynamics and requirements of natural resource management organisations at the local, State and Commonwealth government levels. Show less
THE STAFF
The staff members provide administrative, coordination, project management, mapping, information management, publications and communications support across all areas of Desert Channels Queensland, DC Solutions and the Desert Channels Foundation work.
For general enquiries phone (07) 4658 0600.
Leanne Kohler
Chief Executive Officer
Geoff Penton
Program Manager
Doug Allpass
Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator
Roxane Blackley
Research and Development Manager
Bethany Murphy
Contract and Project Support Officer
Jacob Gack
NRM Project Officer
Jesse Watson
NRM Project Officer
Roshan Karki
GIS and Information Management Officer
Janet Woodfield
Contract and Project Support Officer
Jana Sykorova
Monitoring and Evaluation Officer
Phillip Jackson
Field Technician
Peter Spence
Senior Project Coordinator
Jason Smith
Field Supervisor
WORK WITH US
Desert Channels works with community, industry and government to promote sustainable practices, minimise negative impacts on the environment and protect our region’s unique values. We offer a rewarding career and a supportive work environment that makes a difference.
There are many and varied roles across our organisation such as Geographical Information System, project work, administrative an on-ground work. Every position is different and no two days are alike. Why not contact us today to have a chat.
VACANT POSITIONS
Please contact us on 07 4658 0600 to find out more.
OUTBACK LIVING
Regional living offers a rewarding and interesting life. Check out some of the benefits.
INCENTIVE PROGRAM
We have an excellent incentive program and a history of staff retention.
VACANT POSITION
Applications close 15th December 2024
Research opportunity for Waddi Tree (Acacia peuce)
Desert Channels Queensland, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Government, aims to support a HDR student in conducting a research project to aid in the conservation and management of the Waddi Trees within Queensland. These trees are currently listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999 and endangered in Queensland and the Northern Territory, making its conservation critical.
The project is aimed to commence in early 2025 and DCQ has funds to offer up to $20,000 in financial support for suitable applicant(s), along with accommodation, professional support from DCQ staff, and possibilities of other arrangements.
The project will focus on filling some significant knowledge gaps regarding Acacia peuce, including potentially some of these, Please see attached flyer:
- Population Dynamics and Regeneration Challenges – Evaluating population status and recruitment rates.
- Phylogenetics of Acacia peuce Populations – Investigating genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships.
- Ethnobotany of Acacia peuce – Exploring traditional uses and cultural significance among Indigenous communities.
- Seed Dormancy and Germination Cues – Identifying conditions for successful seedling establishment.
- Reproductive Biology and Seed Ecology – Understanding reproductive strategies and seed dispersal mechanisms.
We are looking for candidates with a background in ecological research and/or botanical surveys, strong teamwork skills, and experience in engaging with land managers and Indigenous corporations. Experience with 4WD operations and adherence to work health and safety policies is also desirable. Please communicate this to any students and researchers who may wish to contribute to this project.
How to apply:
Please see the Position Description & submit:
- Cover letter with brief outline response to your potential contribution to key focus areas.
- Resume including two referees (no more than five pages).
Applications should be addressed to:
Ms Leanne Kohler
Chief Executive Officer
PO Box 601
Longreach Q 4730.
(email address included on the pdf attachment).
VACANT POSITION
Applications close 11th November 2024
NRM Officer
We are seeking a Communications Officer.
The Communications Officer leads the delivery of communications activities across the Desert Channels Region. This activity focuses on developing and implementing strategic communication and engagement plans for the organisation.
This position plays a key role in maintaining the positive reputation and brand of Desert Channels Queensland, ensuring that the organisation is engaging with the target audience at any given time.
This is an exciting opportunity to work for a not-for-profit organisation delivering real outcomes that impact the environment and people of outback Queensland.
Based in Longreach, this position offers a unique and rewarding lifestyle. Living in Central West Queensland is ideal for those who enjoy being part of a close-knit, safe, friendly and inclusive community. Our staff enjoy the relaxed and safe lifestyle, and the opportunity to get involved and make a difference in the region. For more insight on living in Longreach visit FarOut!
Desert Channels Queensland is an independent not for profit organisation working to improve our unique landscapes to enhance sustainability, productivity and biodiversity across the Lake Eyre Basin.
We offer:
- $60,000 – $90,000 Salary negotiated with successful applicant.
- 12.75% superannuation
- Remote Area Benefits for travel, mobile phone, rent and electricity.
- Rental subsidy for 1 year (if recruited external to the region)
- Relocation costs covered.
- Retention bonus
How to apply:
Please see the Position Description & submit:
- Cover letter with brief response to the Selection Criteria (no more than two pages).
- Resume including two professional referees (no more than five pages).
Applications should be addressed to:
Ms Leanne Kohler
Chief Executive Officer
PO Box 601
Longreach Q 4730.
Desert Channels Queensland is supported by the Australian Government's National Landcare Programme and the Queensland Government
