Simon Gould ‘The Regeneration of Australia’s Landscape Imperative’

Australia has some 770 million hectares of land, with around 470 million hectares of this being farmed or grazed at various intensities. Simon will discuss the fact that, despite good practices of a number of land managers and farmers allied to some good science, the realities of an increasingly arid and degraded landscape are being experienced across the country.

The current state of the Australian natural landscape is further challenged by stresses from our changing climate, unsustainable management practices, increased mining activity and urban expansion. Population growth is resulting in concerns for water security, future energy options and is increasing demands on resources. The interrelated character of these challenges can be best met through a comprehensive coordinated approach with regenerative landscape management practices being key to that approach. The presentation will describe how the Soils for Life program is playing a leading role in encouraging change in how are agricultural landscapes are being managed.

Simon Gould is a former Army Officer of 31 years’ service. His military career included commanding an infantry battalion in East Timor, the Deputy for Operations with the Multi-National Force in Iraq and an appointment as Director General of Defence Force Recruiting. He brings his planning, coordination and communications skills to the Soils for Life program, where he has been assisting the Chairman, former Governor General Michael Jeffery, since October 2009. With much work ahead of the team, Simon is particularly interested in the human dimension that will be pivotal in realising the Program’s objective.