Mr Caica said Andrew Inglis from Crystal Brook, Kerry Colbung from Ceduna, Brian Foster from the Eyre Peninsula, Di Ashby from Tintinara and Tim Milne from Wistow will bring new skills and experience to the council.

“Each of the new members has extensive experience in the field of natural resource management and will contribute comprehensive knowledge to the NRM Council,” he said.

“The NRM Council is the state-wide peak body for natural resource management and has the expertise to advise the State Government about the management of the State’s natural resources.

“Andrew Inglis, who has been appointed the new Presiding Member, has been the chair of a number of high-level bodies such as the Biosecurity Advisory Council, Future Farm Industries Cooperative Research Centre, Plant Health Australia and the Grains Research and Development Corporation.

“His strong leadership, broad knowledge of natural resources and wealth of experience, make Andrew well equipped to take on the role.

“Tim Milne has experience with the Nature Conservation Society of SA and has skills and academic qualifications in conservation and biodiversity management.

“Kerry Colbung is the director of the Ceduna Koonibba Aboriginal Health Service and has expertise in indigenous affairs.

“Di Ashby will utilise skills as a primary producer and experience in regional engagement including previous membership on the South East NRM Board.

“Brian Foster who is a former presiding member of the Eyre Peninsula NRM Board is committed to community affairs and has broad NRM knowledge.”

The new members will join existing NRM Council members – Wendy Bell, Felicity-Ann Lewis, Roger Wickes and Joe Keynes.

Mr Inglis said he was looking forward to the opportunity to make a contribution in an important area for South Australia.

“Our principal goal should be to ensure that our natural resources are used and enjoyed in a manner that ensures long term sustainability,’’ he said.