THE COBWA COMMITTEE
 BARB HOWARD CHAIRPERSON Barb Howard is a co-founder of the Institute of Regenerative Leadership, based in Perth, Western Australia. With a deep passion for leadership development, Barb combines her expertise in holistic management and coaching to inspire individuals and teams to create lasting, positive change. Drawing on her experience in agriculture and community development, she empowers leaders to embrace regenerative practices that enhance resilience, collaboration, and sustainability. Known for her engaging facilitation style, Barb helps participants align their values with actionable goals, fostering both personal and professional growth. Her work is a testament to her dedication to cultivating leadership that regenerates landscapes and communities alike. |
GARRY PAGE VICE CHAIRPERSON Garry Page is a committed farmer and advocate for sustainable agriculture from Pingelly, Western Australia. With decades of experience managing his mixed enterprise farm, Garry has embraced regenerative practices to improve soil health, water efficiency, and biodiversity. A strong believer in community collaboration, he actively participates in local agricultural groups and workshops, sharing his knowledge and supporting others in transitioning to sustainable farming systems. Garry is particularly passionate about fostering resilience in rural areas and mentoring the next generation of farmers. His dedication to both environmental stewardship and community development makes him a valued leader in the Pingelly region. |
KARLEE BERTOLA SECRETARY Karlee Bertola, based in Albany, Western Australia, is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and community engagement. With deep roots in the Great Southern region, Karlee has dedicated her career to supporting local farmers and fostering environmentally responsible farming practices. She is known for her innovative approach to land management, emphasising soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative techniques to ensure long-term productivity and sustainability. Active in her community, Karlee participates in initiatives that strengthen rural connections and promote the importance of locally sourced food. Her commitment to sustainable agriculture inspires others and contributes to the resilience of the Albany farming community. |
SARAH TAYLOR TREASURER Sarah and her husband Dean are first-generation beef farmers in the Great Southern region, managing their farm with their two young children using holistic farming principles. Although Sarah is a qualified accountant, her true passion lies in supporting the sustainability of everyday farming families who are privileged to care for and nurture the land. In 2022, Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer, which led her to closely examine the current food production model. She has since been exploring how food is produced and the impacts of modern food systems on human health, driven by a desire to understand and promote healthier practices. |
JASON JARVIS Jason Jarvis is the founder and operator of Prime Organics in Donnybrook, Western Australia, where he grows premium organic produce using regenerative farming practices. With a deep commitment to sustainability, Jason has transformed his farm into a model of ecological balance, prioritising soil health, biodiversity, and environmentally friendly techniques. His produce is sought after for its exceptional quality and flavor, reflecting his passion for nurturing the land. A strong advocate for local food systems, Jason works closely with the community to promote organic farming and educate others about sustainable agriculture. His dedication is helping shape a healthier, more sustainable future. |
DR LUKE NEIL Luke Neill, based in Balingup, Western Australia, is a dedicated farmer and advocate for regenerative agriculture. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Luke integrates innovative practices to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation on his family farm. His passion for fostering resilient ecosystems and sustainable food systems has made him a respected figure in the local farming community. Beyond the farm, Luke actively engages in mentoring and knowledge-sharing initiatives, supporting fellow farmers in adopting sustainable practices. Known for his community spirit and forward-thinking approach, Luke continues to champion a vision for environmentally and economically sustainable farming in the South West. |
JOC DWYER Joc Dwyer is a respected agriculturalist from Bindoon, Western Australia, known for his dedication to sustainable farming and community engagement. At Bindoon Ranges Farm, he specialises in chemical-free pastured beef and composting earthworm products. Having semi-retired from his work with Bindoon Hill Gravel Supply, Joc now focuses on enhancing soil health and sustainable practices, such as integrating livestock with tree cropping systems. Actively involved in community initiatives, he collaborates with the Shire of Chittering on land management and rehabilitation efforts. Joc’s commitment to innovation and sustainability makes him a key contributor to agriculture and the Bindoon community’s development. |
RAQUEL JOHNSON Raquel Johnson and her husband Murray own Galloway Springs Regenerative Farm near Bridgetown, Western Australia. In 2016, they transformed a neglected 1950s property into a thriving 200-acre regenerative farm, enhancing soil health and biodiversity. The farm supports diverse livestock, including cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, alpacas, bees, and marron, and leases facilities to entrepreneurs involved in horticulture and sustainable practices. Raquel, the “heart” of Galloway Springs, has been instrumental in its success through her commitment to holistic management and community engagement. The farm also offers agritourism accommodation, providing guests with a unique, immersive experience in sustainable farming practices. |
DAVINA GOSSAGE Davina Gossage is a respected leader in Western Australia’s agricultural community, with over 35 years of experience managing her family’s farm near Dumbleyung. Transitioning the farm to a lease and share-farming model, she continues to explore diverse aspects of agriculture. Passionate about health and well-being in rural areas, Davina holds a Bachelor of Health Science and is a trained naturopath. She serves as Vice President of Women in Farming, fostering connections and mentoring future agriculturalists. Active in governance, community engagement, and strategic planning, Davina balances her professional pursuits with hobbies like yoga and water sports, while supporting her family. |
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