The Isle of Man recently played host to an annual conference for Chairs of The Wildlife Trusts movement.
Tony Juniper, author of “What has nature ever done for us?” and Iona Joy, Head of Charity Effectiveness, New Philanthropy Capital contributed to key debates during the conference, which took place at the Villa Marina in Douglas. Delegates were joined by Rene Olivieri, Chair of The Wildlife Trusts and the movement’s Chief Executive, Stephanie Hilborne OBE.
Field trips were run by staff from the Manx Wildlife Trust which saw visits to the Ayres National Nature Reserve and Scarlett as well as an early morning wildlife-watching walk along Marine Drive, from where participants caught a glimpse of harbour porpoise.
The conference dinner took place at the Sound Cafe where guests included H.E. Mr Adam Wood, Lieutenant Governor and Edmund Southworth, Director of Manx National Heritage.
Stephanie Hilborne OBE, said:
“On behalf of everyone, I would like to thank all of the local businesses, organisations, government departments and staff and volunteers of the Manx Wildlife Trust who helped to make this conference such a success. The Isle of Man is a very special place for wildlife and we have all thoroughly enjoyed experiencing its unique natural heritage. Everyone who cares about the beautiful rich landscapes of the Island and its extraordinary marine life should join Manx Wildlife Trust.”
Photo - front row, L-R - Stephanie Hilborne OBE and Tony Juniper with conference delegates at the Sound.
