The National Trust of Australia (WA) has appointed a new leadership team to its helm at its first 2011 Council meeting.

Max Kay AM CITWA recognised nationally for his contributions to the entertainment industry and charitable works has been appointed the National Trust’s new President.

Mr Kay who has served as the Premier’s Representative on the National Trust’s Council for the past twelve months, described his new role as an exciting new opportunity to bring benefits to the community by valuing Western Australia unique heritage.

“The National Trust is a unique community based organisation that works with both government and the community,” Mr Kay said.

“The Trust is committed to conserving and interpreting WA’s heritage while educating the community about the sustainable use of natural, Aboriginal and historic heritage,” he said.

Hon John Cowdell AM was appointed as the National Trust’s Chair at the February Council meeting after serving previously as President over the past three years.

Mr Cowdell has been recognised nationally for his service to the Parliament of Western Australia, to regional development and the community particularly through his contributions to history and heritage.

Mr Cowdell served as the Member for the South West Region, President of the Western Australian Legislative Council from 2001 – 2005, and Chair of both the WA Regional Development Council and the Peel Development Commission.

Mr Cowdell said the National Trust was entering a new era dedicated to heritage sustainability, awareness and education.

“Heritage and the community are central to the National Trust’s work. These new appointments also coincide with the National Trust’s new Strategic Plan 2011-2016 which demonstrates our commitment to cultural heritage for the long term social, economic and environmental present and future generations,” Mr Cowdell said.

“For more than fifty years the National Trust has provided heritage leadership in Western Australia and we look forward to delivering continued and valued service to the state and its communities,” he said.