New board announcements for Western Australia’s Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority

Western Australia’s Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, which oversees the operation of Kings Park and Bold Park has appointed public sector leader Gail McGowan as Chairperson; current board member Sheila McHale has been elevated to the role of Deputy Chairperson; and Professor Stephen van Leeuwen, a respected Boojarah Wardandi Noongar leader, has been appointed to the board for a three-year term.

The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority as part of the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, manages Kings Park and Botanic Garden, and Bold Park.

McGowan brings a wealth of experience in public sector governance and management. Recently retired from her role as the Director General of the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, McGowan has been a member of the Infrastructure WA Board and has held other senior positions across government including WorkSafe and the former Department of State Development.

Sheila McHale has been elevated to the role of Deputy Chairperson following her role as Chief Executive of Palmerston Association Inc for more than nine years and a Member of Parliament in Western Australia for 12 years, being a Minister for seven of those 12 years in Parliament.

Professor Stephen van Leeuwen is a respected Boojarah Wardandi Noongar leader and has been appointed to the board for a three-year term.

Professor van Leeuwen is a well-regarded botanical ecologist, research scientist and senior manager. Professor van Leeuwen has a diverse professional research background in flora and fauna ecology, taxonomy and management across WA.

Western Australian Environment Minister Reece Whitby advised "this is a really exciting time for both Kings Park and Bold Park with a number of exciting projects on the horizon, and I congratulate Ms McGowan, Ms McHale and Professor van Leeuwen on their appointments.

"The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority Board will undoubtedly benefit from new expertise in planning, cultural heritage and conservation which complement the extensive existing skills and knowledge already present on the board.

"My sincere thanks also go out to former Chairperson Richard Simpson, who stepped down in 2021 after nearly two decades in the position."

Image: Kings Park. Courtesy Destination Perth Credit: Jason Thomas