It is my pleasure and indeed a great honour to present the President’s report for the year ending 2024 highlighting some of the key activities, achievements and challenges of the Society.
I extend my sincere thanks to Council for their dedication throughout the year. As per usual Bob Shepherd was extremely efficient and steadfast in the Director and Secretary role, but while he was overseas for the second part of the year Matt Fletcher shouldered many secretarial responsibilities in addition to his demanding membership portfolio. John Brisbane continued to be a pillar of strength in his role as Director and Finance/Audit. We thank Chris Obst for his contributions before stepping down due to work commitments, and we welcome Jaidyn Eastaughffe, who was elected in his place. I would also like to acknowledge Gay Crowley for her tireless efforts in promoting the ARS as a strong advocate for responsible land stewardship during her tenure on Council.
The Publication Committee (PC) oversees all Society publications, including The Rangeland Journal, the Range Management Newsletter, the website, and social media. We are grateful for the exceptional contributions of Bradd Witt (Chair), Paul Novelly (Editor-in-Chief), Noelene Duckett (Newsletter Editor), and Jayne Cuddihy (Website Editor). A short-term contract to assist with social media has been arranged in the lead-up to the IRC, while we continue the search for a long-term Social Media Editor.
One of the year’s highlights was the finalisation of a Collection (Special Edition) of The Rangeland Journal focused on Carbon and Ecosystem Services in Rangelands. This edition generated considerable interest. Similarly, an article in the Range Management Newsletter on mega projects and renewable energy infrastructure in rangelands initiated important discussions on these topical issues. The Society remains committed to being a safe platform for open, science-based discussion and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists, land managers, policymakers, and communities.
Preparations for the XII International Rangeland Congress (IRC), to be held in Adelaide from 2–6 June 2025, have progressed significantly. Our members are actively involved on the Organising Committee and Subcommittees. Planning is well underway for the ARS 50th Anniversary celebration, to be held on the first night of Congress, which will include the announcement of our newest Fellow.
We also continue to support preparations for the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) in 2026. Dana Kelly, Chair of the Australasian Committee, and her team are working tirelessly to promote the value of rangelands and pastoralists, and we look forward to collaborative events throughout 2026.
Website challenges have persisted this year, and we sincerely apologise for the disruptions and loss of information that some members experienced. We have worked closely with a new provider to resolve both historical and technical issues. The website has been completely rebuilt with improved membership management and a more streamlined design. While some functions are still being restored, historical materials from the past 50 years will be securely archived on Google Drive and linked to the website for access. A special word of thanks to Jayne Cuddihy who has been putting in a big effort to get the website fully functional again.
The strength of the ARS lies in its members. Council has focused on growing our membership, especially by supporting early career practitioners. We introduced a 50 percent discount in membership fees for early career professionals in the rangeland sector, which has already attracted new members who now benefit from the Society’s resources, networks, and shared knowledge.
Planning is also underway for the 2026 ARS Conference in the Northern Territory. An Organising Committee has been established, co-chaired by Jaidyn Eastaughffe and Jack Farthing. We are excited about the opportunity to bring a dynamic and engaging event to Darwin next year.
In closing, I thank Council, the Publication Committee, and all members for your dedication to this great Society. We are looking ahead to an exciting year.
The 2024 Annual Report was also presented at the meeting – this report includes further details relating to the Society’s membership, finances, publications and other matters. It can be accessed here.