Connecting with people, and connecting with the land

There’s not much Professor Kingsley Dixon doesn’t know about West Australian plants and landscapes, so it was quite a treat today to have him join the Governor, Mrs Dawson and staff representatives on a walk around the Government House Gardens.

His expertise in plant evolution, seed biology and ecological restoration have earned him international acclaim, and today provided a chance to tap into his vast wealth of knowledge and experience.

He was the founding Director of Science at Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, and as a current John Curtin Distinguished Professor at Curtin University he leads a research team focused on conservation and restoration.

Professor Dixon was able to provide some wonderful insight into the synergies within our 3.2 hectares of gardens and their importance botanically and culturally.

Connecting with ‘Ember Connect’

The Governor and Mrs Dawson welcomed Ember Connect to Government House today, represented by Board Chair Eve Howell, Board Member Dr Michelle Ellis and General Manager Narelle Henry.

It was a chance to learn more about this WA-led digital program aimed at better connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from all around Australia, and helping to grow their social capital.

Launched in WA in July, Ember Connect has already drawn great interest from around the country, with the team recently meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and other key Federal Ministers in Canberra.

Their online platform, Ember Connect Live is a ‘live’ meeting place aimed at helping women to make the most of the power of connection.

A meeting of Executive Council

The Governor presided over a meeting of the Executive Council at Government House.

In attendance was the Hon Don Punch MLA, as well as the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC who attended via a video link.

They were joined by Clerk of the Executive Council, Mr Nick Hagley.

The Governor also presided over a private investiture for the Special Air Service Regiment at Government House today.

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