About

The WAMA Vision

OUR VISION: TO CREATE AUSTRALIA'S FIRST ART AND ENVIRONMENTAL PRECINCT THAT PROVIDES MOMENTS OF INSPIRATION, BRILLIANCE, OPTIMISM, HAPPINESS, AND CONNECTION TO NATURE THROUGH EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES AND PROGRAMS RICH IN CULTURAL CONTEXT.

Created to inspire and enrich people’s appreciation of nature, WAMA explores the deep interconnection between art, science and nature.  The centrepiece – a world-class art gallery – dedicated to environmental art and surrounded by indigenous wildlife, native botanic gardens, and bushlands. 

We believe that, by engaging people to better understand, appreciate and stimulate their connection with nature, we can work together to achieve a happier more sustainable future.

ROADMAP: Vision to Creation

SCROLL THE TIMELINE TO VIEW THE WAMA PROJECT'S MILESTONES AND OBJECTIVES.

Patron's Message

I HAVE LONG BEEN PASSIONATE ABOUT THE NATURAL HISTORY OF OUR ANCIENT LAND.

From my childhood, I have maintained a sense of curiosity and respect for the connectedness between art and nature. This connection allows a time for reflection, learning and observation of the intricacies and roots of our sense of place in this world.

As Australia becomes more populated, urbanised and sanitized, and our world more technological, the timing is perfect for an art gallery that focuses on a rediscovery of the relationship between man and his natural surroundings, raising awareness of our environment and deepening people’s understanding and appreciation of nature.

My hope is that this website will stimulate your curiosity about the project and explain how we plan to realize this vision of creating a museum that harnesses the beauty and uniqueness of Australia’s flora and fauna and its relation to art.

I extend a warm invitation to you, to “get involved”, through membership, volunteering in our many projects, events and activities, purchasing our beautiful Australian Geographic calendars or through donating to support WAMA.

Our success relies on your generosity and commitment to this imaginative, original, exciting initiative.

WAMA ORGAINISATION

Returning home to the Grampians after living in Europe for 20 years, Glenda’s love of the region and passion for education led to the creation of the Grampians Wildlife Arts Society, which she chaired for three years. Having successfully established and supported not-for-profit organisations here and abroad, Glenda has brought together like-minded artists and lovers of the region’s unique flora and fauna who are instrumental in bringing the WAMA vision to life.

Glenda Lewin

PATRON
BEd (Early Child)

As an engineer of international standing, Greg returned to the Grampians after a long and distinguished career overseas and is passionate about making WAMA a place that complements and enhances the region as a tourism destination.

Greg Lewin AM

CHAIRMAN
BE (Chem), MBA, FREng, FIChemE, FIEAust

 

GLENDA LEWIN

PATRON
BEd (Early Child)

Returning home to the Grampians after living in Europe for 20 years, Glenda’s love of the region and passion for education led to the creation of the Grampians Wildlife Arts Society, which she chaired for three years. Having successfully established and supported not-for-profit organisations here and abroad, Glenda has brought together like-minded artists and lovers of the region’s unique flora and fauna who are instrumental in bringing the WAMA vision to life.

GREG LEWIN AM

CHAIRMAN
BE (Chem), MBA, FREng, FIChemE, FIEAust

As an engineer of international standing, Greg returned to the Grampians after a long and distinguished career overseas and is passionate about making WAMA a place that complements and enhances the region as a tourism destination.

Ayesha Burdett

DIRECTOR, DESIGN LEAD PhD (Env Sci), BArts/BScience

A freshwater ecologist with more than 20 years’ experience in scientific research and museums, Ayesha is passionate about connecting people to the natural world and is excited for WAMA to introduce a new generation to the wonders of nature.

Jill Burness

DIRECTOR, NATIVE GARDENS LEAD

Jill recently retired after 27 years at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Cranbourne Gardens, where she worked on the design and development of award-winning Australia Garden. She believes WAMA provides a much-needed opportunity to showcase the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grampians region through native flora.

John Hawkins

DIRECTOR, CONSTRUCTION LEAD

With more than 45 years’ experience in civil engineering specialising in major land developments including wetlands, John is charged with bringing the gallery to life. John believes WAMA will provide a leading example of how to rehabilitate degraded farm and woodlands to conserve our unique flora and fauna for future generations.

Jacqueline Healy

DIRECTOR, ART LEAD

With a decorated and distinguished career in public art institutions, including the National Gallery of Victoria and National Gallery of the Northern Territory, Jacqui believes WAMA provides a unique opportunity to engage and excite new audiences through the intersection of art and science.

Glen Holland

DIRECTOR, WILDLIFE LEAD

Having spent most of his career running large-scale wildlife tourism destinations in New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia (including Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo) Glen brings his passion for indigenous cultures, wildlife, and conservation to WAMA to create a truly unique experience.

Lynn Jensz

FINANCE DIRECTOR

Having spent most of her life in Stawell and being actively involved in the project from the beginning, Lynn believes WAMA will be a tourist destination project like no other, appealing to art, nature, and science lovers alike.

Peter Weston

DIRECTOR, LEGAL LEAD

An experienced company director, Peter is a strong supporter of the role WAMA plays in reconnecting people to nature and is committed to ensuring that the development of WAMA progresses responsibly.

Ange Turrell

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMPANY SECRETARY

Ange has more than 30 years’ experience in marketing and advertising and is now focused on bringing economic and environmental development into the Grampians region, which WAMA will do.