Former Cross Border Commissioner Appointed Chair of the North East CMA Board
The North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has welcomed four new board members with the recently announced round of appointments to the boards of Water Corporations and CMAs.
Former Victorian Cross Border Commissioner, Luke Wilson has been appointed Chair.
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at such a critical time for our region,” Mr Wilson said. “The North East CMA plays a vital role in protecting and enhancing our natural resources, and I look forward to working with the Board, staff, and community to build resilience and deliver meaningful outcomes for our landscapes and waterways. Each of these new members have significant relevant expertise and experience that will be of great benefit to our organisation and our work. Importantly, they all live and work in the region and bring both on-ground and strategic insight to the table.”
The four new Board Members bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the board. They are:
Luke Wilson (Chair)- Luke is an experienced public sector leader and advocate, with a long career shaping primary industries and natural resources policy and regulation in the Victorian, South Australian and Commonwealth public sectors. Luke was also Victoria’s first Cross Border Commissioner, from 2018 to 2024, advocating for communities and businesses along each of Victoria’s state borders. In 2025 Luke was awarded the Public Service Medal for his contribution to regional communities. Luke is based in Wodonga.
Thomas Giltrap- Thomas is a Wagyu cattle producer based in Mitta Mitta, Victoria, where he operates Giltrap Pastoral alongside his family. With a strong focus on sustainable grazing systems and feed efficiency, Thomas has introduced innovative forage solutions to improve livestock performance and land management outcomes.
Thomas is a current member of the Young Farmers Advisory Council for Agriculture Victoria, contributing to strategic discussions around the future of farming and rural leadership. He brings practical experience in livestock production, pasture management, and agribusiness, along with a commitment to supporting young people in agriculture.
Annaleigh Nash- Annaleigh is a lawyer with experience working in community legal work and government litigation.
She is deeply involved in local Landcare, having led projects focused on biodiversity conservation, sustainable land use and waterway health. Annaleigh is passionate about grass-roots environmental stewardship and working with First Nations people to honour cultural values and improve land and water outcomes.
Annaleigh is based in North East Victoria, where she is raising a young family and has a farm.
She holds qualifications in law, public policy and governance.
Cassandra Schefe- Cassandra is a soil scientist with over two decades of experience in agricultural research and innovation. She began her career with the Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries and holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons) from the University of Melbourne and a PhD from Monash University.
Dr Schefe is the founder of a soil science and agronomic support business, where she works with government, industry and research partners to address soil constraints, develop fertiliser technologies, and reduce emissions in cropping systems. She is a Certified Professional Soil Scientist and has contributed to national initiatives supporting regenerative agriculture and climate-smart farming. Cassandra is based in Rutherglen.
The three continuing Board members are Dr Ashlen Francisco, Jennifer Wolcott and Dr Elisa Raulings.
The North East CMA Board oversees the strategic management of land, water, and biodiversity resources across the region, working in partnership with Traditional Owners, community groups, government agencies, and landholders.
New North East CMA Board. From L-R: Luke Wilson (Chair), Dr Cassandra Schefe, Jennifer Wolcott, Thomas Giltrap, Annaleigh Nash. Photo: Nat Ord
Absent from photo: Dr Elisa Raulings, Dr Ashlen Francisco