Landcare NSW has acknowledged the invaluable contribution retiring NSW Local Land Services Board Chair Richard Bull made to sustainable agriculture and the state’s natural resources sector during his eight years with the organisation. Rick became Chair of the Board of Local Land Services (LLS) in 2017 and worked alongside Landcare NSW former Chair Rob Dulhunty and then current Chair Steph Cameron during a period of major expansion and development for Landcare. Landcare NSW Chair, Stephanie Cameron thanked Rick for the critical role he has played during his time as Chair of LLS. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as Chair of Landcare NSW has been to work alongside Richard Bull to build a harmonious and productive relationship between LLS and Landcare for the benefit of landholders, industry and the Landcare community. Rick brought experience, intelligence and wisdom to every interaction. I valued his wise counsel and guidance and the quiet way he steered a path through sometimes difficult waters to reach a resolution. “Rick saw the potential of harnessing the passion and skills of the Landcare community. Under his leadership, we saw a period of renewal, collaboration, trust and joint planning which brought government and the Landcare community together,” Ms Cameron said. Landcarers across NSW will continue to benefit from the thriving partnership between LLS and Landcare NSW, after the two organisations refreshed and re-signed their Memorandum of Understanding in January earlier this year. Rick played a critical role in Co-Chairing the Joint Management Committee that oversees the four-year, $22.4 million NSW Landcare Program which continues to underpin the partnership. A sheep producer at Holbrook and agricultural consultant, Rick has lived his entire life on the land and has been committed to advancing the state’s agricultural sector throughout his career. He was the inaugural Chair of the Murray LLS Board from 2013. “He was very familiar with Landcare from his contacts in the Murray region and brought that understanding to the state level,” said Landcare NSW CEO, Dr Adrian Zammit. “He had a genuine commitment to support the growth and development of Landcare. He understood the importance of the relationship between Government and Landcare at all levels. “Rick attended every Landcare Council meeting and would listen carefully to each of the reports provided by Councillors. This ensured he got information directly from grassroots representatives. He took time out of his busy schedule to attend Landcare conferences and events where he spent time with the volunteer committee members, Landcare coordinators and volunteers. There is nothing he liked better than getting out of the office and out into the field to talk to people on the ground. “The esteem in which Rick is held by the Landcare community is enormous. We thank him for his contribution and hope he will continue to play a role in our community,” said Dr Zammit.