MEDIA RELEASE ­ Nelson's Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Trust announces appointment of its first general manager

Trust Chair David Butler has announced that Hudson Dodd would take up the new position, having been appointed from a ‘very strong field’ of over 60 candidates. Mr Dodd has worked for many years in the not-for-profit conservation sector in the Northwest United States.

Mr Butler said the general manager’s role would be to oversee the completion of the sanctuary’s development phase, culminating in the building of the pest-proof fence, removal of all introduced pests so native birds can flourish, and the development of facilities for visitors.

“The trust board considers the appointment of a full-time general manager as a strong signal that the Sanctuary is getting close to achieving its vision to become New Zealand's richest conservation environment for visitors,education and research,” he said. “We have strong support from key organisations in the region and from the grass roots, with over 500 members and 200 active volunteers.”

Mr Butler said he was very excited at Hudson’s appointment: “He is a committed conservationist, he is very familiar with the challenges of working within a community organisation and he brings considerable experience in marketing and fund-raising - just what we need as we develop our final campaign.”

Hudson Dodd said he was honoured to be part of the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary, which he described as a nationally and internationally significant conservation effort, both for rare wildlife protection and visitor enjoyment.

“It has huge potential for tourism in the Nelson Tasman region, and is ideally situated for local enjoyment on the doorstep of Nelson,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to getting stuck into this important community initiative.”

Rick Field, Project Coordinator for the Sanctuary, was also enthusiastic about the appointment.

“We are thrilled with the background that Hudson brings, as we take the project to the next level,” he said. “This year we will be firmly focused on raising funds, and will be promoting our successes, starting with a Sanctuary Open Day where we would love to see you and your family to celebrate progress so far and look forward to the culmination of our vision.”

The open day is at the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary in upper Brook Street on February 19, from 11- 4pm. Entry free.

ENDS

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