Our team and board are experienced practitioners who volunteer their time to guide the organisation’s strategy and systems so local leaders can succeed.
Jo Abbot
Chair
Senior finance executive with extensive experience across government and the private sector. Jo provides disciplined financial oversight and ensures strong, community-centred governance.
Jo is also the project lead of the Broulee Microforest.
Irene Zhen
Deputy Chair
Program manager and innovation strategist with a background in law and finance. Irene supports organisational growth, investment readiness and long-term governance foundations.
Mitch Porteous
CEO / Director
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.
Mitch was also the Project Co-lead on the Queanbeyan Microforest.
Edwina Robinson
Director & Spokesperson
Landscape architect and early pioneer of community-led microforests in Australia. Edwina brings deep experience in urban greening, community engagement and site design.
She led the Downer and Moruya microforests and has provided design expertise across the first six microforests.
Jason Perelson
Director
Creative strategist with 25+ years shaping behaviour-led campaigns, brands and social impact projects. Jason brings strong capability in communications, partnerships and movement-building.
Leisa Quinn
Director
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.
Liz Adcock
Director
Digital strategist and designer focusing on biodiversity, conservation and community connection. Liz brings strong environmental design and user-centred expertise.
Liz was also the Project Co-lead of the Watson Microforest.
Purdie Bowden
Director
Sustainability professional working across finance and climate policy. Purdie combines policy expertise with a passion for community and nature play.
Purdie was also the Project Co-lead of the Watson Microforest.
Rebecca Gredley-Porteous
Advisor
Strategic communications and media specialist with a background in journalism and a decade of experience shaping narratives across environment, climate and politics.
Bec was also the Project Co-lead on the Queanbeyan Microforest.
Cassady Mann
Advisor
Strategic marketer and creative problem-solver with a sharp instinct for understanding people - what motivates them, how to reach them, and what makes them act.
Cass provides insight on leader attraction strategy, bringing expertise across campaign design, employer brand, digital content and organisational storytelling.
