Our Management Committee

Ben commenced as Tamar NRM’s President after the 2021 AGM. Ben is a third-generation farmer on a property at Beaconsfield, focused on lamb production and maximising grazing efficiency. He holds a Master of Business Administration - Agricultural Innovation and a Graduate Certificate in Management as well as an Agribusiness and an Advanced Diploma of Farm Business Management. Ben is the current Chair of the Tamar Valley Branch of TFGA and offers tutor support to Exeter High School. Ben passionately believes in education and self-improvement for everyone in the community, especially in areas of NRM and agriculture. His previous industry roles include; Board Selection Committee for Meat and Livestock Australia; Member and Chair of TFGA Meat Council; and State Representative to the Sheep Meat Council of Australia.

Brigid has undertaken roles as an industry investigator for adaptive water resources management with Sense-T, Environmental Policy advisor and has four years' experience as an associate Lecturer at UTAS. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc. Hons), Plant Biology and Geography (Aquaculture minor) and worked as a research assistant at the Centre for Phytophthora Science and Management at Murdoch University.

Leigh is the Manager of Asset Operations at West Tamar Council. 

Andrew McCarthy is the Director of Infrastructure & Development at George Town Council. He is responsible for infrastructure, projects, planning and development, and the outdoor workforce. Andrew was previously the Manager of Business Enterprises with the City of Launceston. His portfolio included UTAS Stadium, the Launceston Leisure and Aquatic Centre, Carr Villa cemetery and Building Surveying Services. Andrew has several tertiary qualifications, including a Master of Business Administration. Andrew is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and served on the board as Director of New Horizons from 2013-2021. Andrew became the George Town Council representative in March 2023.

Toni Furlonge is the Senior Advisor Environment at Tas Ports.

​Matthew Jordan is the Manager of Open Spaces and Sustainability at City of Launceston.

Ruth is a dedicated community advocate and accomplished professional with over 27 years of distinguished service in public safety, investigation, and governance. Rising to the rank of Inspector with Tasmania Police, Ruth led teams of up to 75 staff and managed critical operations, including the Northern Policing response to Covid-19. Ruth holds a Bachelor of Arts Professional Honours in Public Sector Leadership and Management and a Graduate Certificate in Police Studies from the University of Tasmania.

Renowned for integrity, adaptability, and exceptional interpersonal skills, Ruth is passionate about volunteering and actively supports a range of community groups, including East Tamar Landcare and the Lulworth Community Association. As a Director on the Board of Lifeline Tasmania and Northern Vice President of the Retired Police Association, Ruth is also committed to supporting individuals facing life’s challenges with a particular focus on mental health.

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