Team & Board

Our team and board are experienced practitioners who volunteer their time to guide the organisation’s strategy and systems so local leaders can succeed.

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Jo Abbot
Chair

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Senior finance executive with extensive experience across government and the private sector. Jo provides disciplined financial oversight and ensures strong, community-centred governance.

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Irene Zhene
Deputy Chair

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Program manager and innovation strategist with a background in law and finance. Irene supports organisational growth, investment readiness and long-term governance foundations.

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Mitch Porteous 
CEO / Director

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Urban strategist working across property, planning and community development. Mitch focuses on system design, infill delivery and the practical structures that help people shape their built and natural environments.

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Edwina Robinson
Director & Spokesperson

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Landscape architect and early pioneer of community-led microforests in Australia. Edwina brings deep experience in urban greening, community engagement and site design.

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Jason Perelson
Director

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Creative strategist with 25+ years shaping behaviour-led campaigns, brands and social impact projects. Jason brings strong capability in communications, partnerships and movement-building.

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Leisa Quinn
Director

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Fundraising and communications specialist with over a decade delivering high-impact campaigns across the not-for-profit sector. Leisa leads work across supporter growth and donor engagement.

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Liz Adcock
Director

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Digital strategist and designer focusing on biodiversity, conservation and community connection. Liz brings strong environmental design and user-centred expertise.

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Purdie Bowden
Director

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Sustainability professional working across finance and climate policy. Purdie combines subject expertise with a passion for community and nature play.

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Rebecca Gredley-Porteous
Advisor

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Strategic communications and media specialist with a background in journalism and a decade of experience shaping narratives across environment, climate and politics.