The Rainforest Information Centre Inc

The Rainforest Information Centre Inc is an Australian grassroots, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the protection of the Earth's remaining rainforests in partnership with Indigenous peoples and local communities who depend on them. Established in 1980, the organisation has played a pivotal role in numerous rainforest conservation campaigns across Australia and internationally. Registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC), it holds the Australian Business Number (ABN) 64 589 855 262 and is recognised as a Deductible Gift Recipient, enabling tax-deductible donations to support its work.

History and Background

The Rainforest Information Centre (RIC) originated from the successful campaign to save the sub-tropical rainforests of New South Wales between 1979 and 1981, an area now designated as a World Heritage Site. Inspired by early conservation efforts at Terania Creek, John Seed founded and led the organisation, extending its efforts to protect the temperate rainforests of Tasmania during the Franklin River Blockade in 1982 and the tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland in the Daintree Blockade of 1983–84. Over more than four decades, RIC has been involved in hundreds of campaigns, supporting frontline activists and working alongside Indigenous communities to foster sustainable alternatives to rainforest destruction[1][3][5].

Mission and Activities

RIC’s mission centers on rainforest protection through collaborative partnerships with Indigenous peoples and local communities, recognising their rights and aspirations. The organisation coordinates campaigns, provides information dissemination, and conducts deep ecology workshops aiming to raise awareness about the intrinsic value of rainforests and the urgent need for their conservation. Its projects extend beyond Australia, including conservation efforts in Ecuador and India, highlighting the global scope of its commitment[1][3][5].

Governance and Structure

The Rainforest Information Centre is an incorporated association registered in 1980. As of 2022, its office bearers include Patrick Anderson as President, Liz Downes as Secretary, Gregory Hall as Treasurer, Susie Russell on the Management Committee, and John Seed serving as an Honorary Board Member. The organisation operates primarily on a volunteer basis, ensuring that donations directly support conservation projects and campaigns rather than administrative overheads[3][5].

Partnerships and Advocacy

RIC collaborates with like-minded organisations such as the North East Forest Alliance (NEFA) in New South Wales and supports initiatives like the documentary Marrow of the Mountain. It actively acknowledges the Indigenous Custodians of the lands and supports Indigenous sovereignty and representation, including endorsing the movement for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in Australia. The organisation’s advocacy work addresses both environmental conservation and social justice issues linked to rainforest protection[1][3].

Legacy and Impact

The Rainforest Information Centre has been a significant actor in the radical environmental movement in Australia since its inception. Its early campaigns contributed to landmark conservation successes such as the protection of World Heritage-listed rainforests in New South Wales. By integrating ecological preservation with Indigenous rights, RIC has helped foster a more holistic approach to environmental activism, serving as a model for similar grassroots initiatives worldwide[1][3][5].

This summary encapsulates the organisation’s purpose, history, mission, governance, partnerships, and impact based on available information.

[1] https://www.rainforestinformationcentre.org [2] https://www.rainforestinfo.org.au [3] https://www.rainforestinformationcentre.org/about [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/a079c226-38af-e811-a960-000d3ad24282/profile [5] http://www.rainforestinfo.org.au/aboutthe.htm