Perfect 10! MRSG’s big new committee
MRSG incoming committee Oct 2025
Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group has a new president and governance committee following its annual general meeting.
More than 40 members gathered in Gisborne for the October 18 AGM for guest speaker Professor Ruth Nettle’s inspiring and practical presentation on building communities and networks of interest and practice.
Veg Action nourished us with a colourful, plant-based afternoon tea. Outgoing president Lenka Thompson and treasurer Ralf Thesing delivered annual reports – MRSG’s members have made many valuable contributions within and beyond the Macedon Ranges in the past year, financially it is in good shape and there is so much more good work in the pipeline for the coming year.
Ten MRSG members were elected to the governance committee, several more than in recent years. The large number on the committee is a valuable injection of energy and skills and allows each of the 10 action groups to have its own designated liaison person.
Former vice president Robert Bruhn is president, new committee member Gavin Mountjoy is vice president, David Thomas is secretary and Ralf Thesing continues for another year as treasurer.
We thank retiring secretary Jenny Holliday and outgoing president Lenka Thompson for their extraordinary contribution.
MRSG governance committee is:
Robert Bruhn, president
Gavin Mountjoy, vice president
David Thomas, secretary and grants co-ordinator
Ralf Thesing, treasurer
Lenka Thompson
Stuart Grainger, wellbeing
Geoff Murray
Magnus Moglia
Lauren Tyrell, grants assistance
Donna Coutts, council liaison
A message from MRSG’s outgoing president, Lenka Thompson
It has been a pleasure to working with so many dedicated and passionate locals who want to make Macedon Ranges a more resilient and sustainable place to live, work and play.
I congratulate all the hard work of the action group leaders and every single member or supporter who helps them in their vision. MRSG has its structure right, with the governance committee connected to each of the action groups and projects, so they can continue to do good work without the administrative burden of attaining insurance or incorporation status, or organising financial accounts.
Work on MRSG’s strategy has highlighted four focus areas for the organisation and showcases MRSG’s actions. This model has also allowed the committee to create a stronger bond with Macedon Ranges Shire Council through the inaugural Changemakers Macedon Ranges, an annual week-long celebration of sustainability-focused activities for everyone. I look forward to watching this bond with MRSC strengthen into the future, for our action groups to thrive and continue to do great things for the community.
A message from MRSG’s new president, Robert Bruhn
I’m excited to support our committee, Action Group Leaders and members in a way that’s inclusive, equitable and welcoming.
I aim to grow our membership by connecting more people with our action groups and projects, strengthening relationships with our current partners and reaching out to new ones.
Together, we’ll build on the success of initiatives such as GROW, Changemakers, Edgy Veg Awards and the world-famous Woodend Community Farmers’ Market, while bringing our new MRSG strategy to life.
I’m looking forward to working with the community and council to ensure MRSG remains a trusted partner and positive force for sustainability across the Macedon Ranges.