End of Year Message from the President

Geography Victoria
End of Year Message from the President

It was only a year ago that Geography Victoria was officially launched, and what an exciting year it has been. In that short time, we have achieved many important milestones. Your support has made progress possible across a wide range of areas, and it is with great enthusiasm that we now look ahead to 2026.

1. Our growing community

We now have nearly 100 members - many of whom have never formally studied geography or worked in the field. What unites us all is a shared passion for exploring and understanding the world around us.

Our goal is to grow our membership to 150 by the end of 2026.
 

2. Strong foundations and governance

Our Board brings together members from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of skills and experience. Together, they have developed a five-year strategic plan focused on supporting geographers and engaging members, ensuring Geography Victoria is sustainable for the long term.

A special thank you goes to our inaugural Secretary, Garry Moore for his diligent work in establishing sound governance foundations and securing tax donation status for Geography Victoria. Geography Victoria also values the support of our Patron Rob Gell AM and The Royal Society of Victoria, of which we are an affiliate.

3. National Connections

Geography Victoria is proud to be recognised as a key contributor to the national geography community, with a seat on the National Committee for Geographical Sciences. We look forward to strengthening these connections and learning from Australia’s long - established geographical societies.

4. Staying connected with our community

We are committed to keeping our members informed about all things geographical in Victoria through our website, newsletter and social media channels. Our sincere thanks go to the volunteers on the Communications team who have worked so hard on this throughout the year.

5. Aiming high in 2026

We are delighted to have successfully navigated the final hurdle to achieve DGR status, enabling Geography Victoria to accept tax-deductible donations. This important milestone will allow us to support early career geographers and further promote geography.

6. Expanding horizons through events

From Walking the Greenline and learning the skills of rogaining, to boating on the harbour and watching families with young children scooting through the Carlton Gardens, Geography Victoria has delivered a diverse range of events to suit many interests.

Highlights included two StoryWalk®s in Flagstaff and Carlton Gardens, enjoyed by just under 1,000 participants - each with a map in hand.

You make a difference

We have come a long way in securing the future of our state-based geographical society. Every time you renew your membership, register for an event, volunteer, share an idea, or make a contribution, you help Geography Victoria strengthen its commitment to the future of our discipline.

Please help us spread the word about Geography Victoria - encourage family and friends to become members and continue to suggest events and activities.

Finally, I would like to thank all the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Wishing you a safe and geographically enriching Christmas and New Year. We look forward to coming together again in 2026.

Warm regards,

Prof. Ian Rutherfurd – President Geography Victoria 2025