Goodbye Mr Greg Bourne

  • Category
    Science
  • Published
    28 April 2010
  • Read time
    2 minutes

After nearly six years as the CEO of WWF, Mr Greg Bourne is leaving.

One day when I was about 10 years old I was at the head office of WWF in Sydney. I was there to interview a staff member about the work WWF does. Everyone that knows me knows how much I love WWF and the amazing work they do. I wanted to share with other kids about the role WWF plays in helping our planet and how they can help too.

While I was conducting the interview a big bald man burst into the conference room and said “who is the kid that wants to know so much about my organisation?” At first I didn’t know what to say or do but I just stood up and said it was me and my name is Parrys Raines. He introduced himself to me and we shook hands. He asked me lots of questions and I told him how much the environment meant to me and how I was trying to share information about WWF and the environment with other kids. He congratulated me for what I was trying to achieve and gave me couple of gifts which I still have today and will always treasure.

Over the next few years my relationship with WWF, Greg and the team grew stronger. Greg was the first adult other than my parents who supported and encouraged me. Greg has always been there to answer questions and share information. One thing people may not know about Greg is that he can be really funny. We have shared some great moments and the ones that stand out the most is when we walked with Sarah Bishop on her last leg from Brisbane over the harbour bridge and into Martin Place. Also the Earth Hour functions have special memories for me too.

Greg has been a big player in the climate change debate. On behalf of my generation I thank you Greg for all your contribution on helping the planet regarding climate change and the other fantastic work WWF does. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being my friend, mentor but most of all thank you for believing in me.

I wish you, Katie and baby Felix all the best.

Just one last point – you knew I was after your job but I haven’t even finished school yet so you could have stayed a bit longer!!

Remember “Habits made today will help life tomorrow.”