Meet the Team - Ellie McKenna - Biolinks Alliance Relations Manager

Grab a cuppa and take a moment to spend some time with one of our dedicated team members - Ellie McKenna, Relations Manager at Biolinks Alliance.

With a heart of gold and warmth to boot, Ellie is the good natured and friendly face of Biolinks Alliance when it comes to our supporters. With a plethora of fundraising experience and a true belief in the work we do - Ellie goes above and beyond to make sure our donors know they are an integral part of our Biolinks Alliance family.

What inspires you to work with Biolinks Alliance?

Aside from firmly believing in Biolinks Alliance’s mission, I am continuously inspired by the diverse group of Biolinks Alliance supporters who share a deep commitment to environmental conservation. Their selflessness shines through their generosity, whether volunteering time and skills, advocating and being a voice for nature, making financial contributions - or, in many cases, all of the above. Knowing these remarkable individuals exist is motivating, and building personal connections with them is a privilege.

What does your job entail?

At its core, I nurture meaningful relationships and showcase the impacts of investing in Central Victoria’s environment and Biolinks Alliance. It's about listening, connecting, and working together to create positive outcomes for nature.

Is there an outcome for our environment you feel most proud of in your time with Biolinks Alliance?

The Spring Plains Watershed Repair Project takes the crown! It has been an incredible journey to be a part of since its inception.

From a fundraising perspective, the project is a testament to its initial supporters, a small group of individuals who understood its potential and trusted Biolinks Alliance to bring it to life.

Financial backing for the project has gone from 5 individual contributors to leveraging into support that includes larger philanthropic trusts, government, and the broader public, not to mention tireless support from volunteers.

I recently had the pleasure of hosting a small group of the project's pioneering supporters for a site visit, where works are now in full swing.

Seeing this ambitious plan come to life in the Box Iron-bark forest is very special to all who have been a part of the journey. It has not been an easy road, but what do they say about innovation? It’s anything but business as usual.

If you were an animal, insect, or plant – what would you be and why?

The platypus has become special to me.

Last year, I vividly dreamt of one grinning and winking at me. I kept thinking about this dream and felt compelled to head to my local river at sunrise the next day, determined to see my first one in the wild. I was not disappointed and have since declared them my icon!

Last month, I watched ABCs documentary, The Platypus Guardian (everyone should watch it). I thought they were shy creatures, but it turns out that platypus can be fearless (check out the duck-scaring bit) and are clever, loyal, determined, unassuming and can survive some pretty tough situations.

On your days off - what do you like to do?

On a single day off - I like spontaneous road trips to quirky destinations, swimming in natural bodies of water (especially at secret spots), live theater or music, and hunting for op shop treasures. On an extended break, I love a whole family, tents-only summer coastal fling in Victoria’s far east. Or, if lucky, an overseas adventure with plenty of wildlife and nature exploration. And, good food!