Kate Lundy has been elected as the Geospatial Council of Australia’s (GCA) new Chair/President, taking over from Paul Digney who had served as Acting Chair/President since the organisation’s incorporation in March 2023.

Lundy, a former federal senator and experienced board director, and who had been appointed Independent Non-Executive Director on the GCA board earlier this year, was elected Chair/President at the GCA’s board meeting on 5 December.

Lundy served for more than 19 years as a federal senator for the Australian Capital Territory, followed by a long career in corporate leadership. She currently serves on the boards of several other significant organisations, including the Australian Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre, the Canberra Institute of Technology, Electro Optical Systems, NRMA and the National Youth Science Forum.

“I’m honoured to take on the role of Board Chair/President at GCA,” said Lundy. “Our vision is to build on our strong foundations: serving members and the nation through creativity, innovation, collaboration, growth, recognition, and inclusivity within the geospatial community.”

“Together, we’ll propel GCA to new horizons, staying at the forefront of geospatial technology advancements and helping to promote and build the skilled workforce needed for the future.

At the GCA’s annual general meeting on 23 November, a unanimous vote extended the Directorships of Paul Digney and Jacinta Burns for a further 12 months, ensuring the continuity of experienced leadership and benefiting from their unwavering commitment to GCA’s vision.

At the same time, Mary-Ellen Feeney, a geospatial professional with expertise in organisational and stakeholder capacity building, was elected as a Member Director. Her appointment followed a rigorous selection process which matched her high qualifications with GCA’s goals. Feeney already contributes through her position on GCA’s Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee.

As of the AGM and board meeting, the GCA’s board comprises:

• Kate Lundy – Chair/President
• Alistair Byrom – Deputy Chair
• Paul Digney
• Roshni Sharma
• Jacinta Burns
• Kate Ramsay
• Darren Mottolini
• Mary-Ellen Feeney
• Stewart Dunne (starting 1 February 2024)

“In the 21st century, Geospatial technologies impact all facets of our society and economy,” said Lundy. “The GCA is looking forward to leading the national conversation on its importance to both the strategic, and everyday practical relevance to Australia and Australians.”