Introducing Robert McKenzie as Landcare NT’s New Operations Manager

Robert McKenzie joins Landcare NT as our new Operations Manager, bringing long-standing personal ties to Landcare and a commitment to its future.

Robert’s diverse background includes 25 years in the Royal Australian Air Force and Defence industry, followed by two years supporting veteran welfare. His connection to Landcare, however, runs far deeper. Growing up on a farm in North-east Victoria, Robert was immersed in the Landcare ethos from a young age—his father was a vocal advocate and committed volunteer in the early days of the movement. That foundation shaped Robert’s enduring appreciation for community-led environmental stewardship.

This new chapter brings Robert’s early connection to Landcare into a professional focus. Having spent recent years volunteering in the environment space, he now sees his role with Landcare NT as a way to deepen that contribution—supporting land, wildlife, and sustainability initiatives across the Northern Territory.

“I am very excited by the opportunity to share my experiences and use my skills to promote and grow Landcare NT,” he says. “I am seeking a new challenge, and this role appeals to me due to the positive impact it can have on not just the land, but the wildlife and sustainability of the Northern Territory.”

Through his artistic lens, Robert explores the intricacies of insects and bushland ecology. He is an avid photographer, sketcher, and painter, and contributes regularly to iNaturalist’s growing flora and fauna database. This creative practice has deepened his appreciation for the critical role insects play in the life cycle of the bush.

Robert says he loves everywhere he goes in the NT, whether it’s driving across the Barkly Tablelands or visiting Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge) in Kakadu, the Territory’s landscapes always leave an impression. These days, his family’s own patch of bushland just south of Darwin is a favourite, where their kids can run free and connect with nature just outside their back door.

We’re excited to have Robert on board and look forward to the perspective and energy he brings to the Landcare NT team.