The National Trust of Australia says it has made a decision about who will run Wirrimbirra Sanctuary but can’t say yet who was the succesful candidate to the Expression of Interest process.
“The Expression of Interest process has resulted in the selection of a preferred candidate for the lease, management and operation of the property,’’ says Debbie Mills, chief executive officer of the National Trust.
“We have maintained, at all times, that the property is to be managed in the spirit of the vision of its initiator Dr Thistle Stead (nee Harris) and the intent of the gift of the property to the National Trust.
“We look forward to working in partnership with the preferred candidate – who we have yet to publicly announce – to provide ongoing care and protection of this site, and to build on the natural heritage education programs,” Ms Mills said.
All applicants in the Expression of Interest process have been advised of the outcome regarding the ongoing management of 3105 Remembrance Driveway, Bargo, where Wirrimbirra Sanctuary is located.
The National Trust (NSW) says it has also advised the existing tenants.
It says the successful candidate will be announced in due course pending the completion of all contractual processes.
The Trust launched an open Expression of Interest process last year.
The property was gifted to the National Trust of Australia (NSW) in 1965 by The David G. Stead Memorial Wild Life Research Foundation of Australia (Stead Research Foundation) and over the years has been used as a field studies centre for school children and tertiary students.
“This site has great significance to the local community and the National Trust has carefully considered the long term sustainability and effective management for this special place,” Ms Mills said.
“In recognition of the environmental and cultural significance of the property we commenced a public, robust, open and equitable Expression of Interest process in July 2018, through which all applicants have been thoroughly reviewed and given due consideration in line with the selection criteria.”
For more information on the National Trust visit their website at https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/nsw/
