Lands Minister Tony Buti today announced the reappointment of Tim Shackleton as Chairperson to the Pastoral Lands Board (PLB) and welcomed Lawford Benning as the new Aboriginal Interest Member.
The appointments ensure the PLB can continue to provide expert advice to the Minister.
The PLB has a broad membership that represents the growing diversity of the pastoral industry and regional Western Australia.
Mr Shackleton has served as chairperson for the past four years, and has been instrumental in progressing legislative changes to support pastoral lands reform and in the development of an improved pastoral rent system.
In addition to his PLB role, Mr Shackleton is Chief Executive Officer of Rural Health West and has previously worked as a Regional Director within the WA Country Health Service.
The PLB also welcomes Mr Benning who brings a wealth of professional pastoral and business experience to the Board.
Mr Benning has worked closely with the pastoral industry in a professional capacity as executive chairperson of the Yawoorroong Miriuwung Gajerrong Yirrgeb Noong Dawang (MG) Corporation, and chair of MG Corporation’s associated companies and entities.
He comes from a family with a strong pastoral background and has facilitated training and workforce placements for young Aboriginal people entering the pastoral industry across the Pilbara and Kimberley regions.
As stated by Lands Minister Tony Buti:
“I congratulate both Mr Shackleton and Mr Benning on their appointments and look forward to working together to ensure a sustainable and prosperous pastoral industry for WA.
“Tim Shackleton has served the pastoral industry well in his four years as chairperson, ensuring the PLB provides effective guidance for the administration of pastoral land and leading important work to progress the Government’s reform program.
“He has a strong connection with the pastoral industry and remote communities, and his reappointment as chairperson will ensure continuity in the board’s work.
“Lawford Benning will bring a wealth of knowledge to the PLB in relation to issues affecting and opportunities for the growing Aboriginal pastoral industry and regional Western Australia.
“We are still seeking expressions of interest for two pastoral interest members, with expressions of interest closing tomorrow, Friday June 25.
“I encourage anyone who holds or has held an interest in a pastoral lease, or anyone with current or past shareholder interests in a company with beneficial interests in a pastoral lease, to apply.”
