New chair for Nature Conservation Margaret River

Dr Cresswell, a retired education researcher, will succeed Dr Boyd Wykes, who has chaired the environmental group for four years.

Dr Wykes will continue as a Board member, and as Deputy Chair of Nature Conservation Margaret River.

Dr Cresswell offered his thanks to Dr Wykes for his leadership and said he looked forward to the many challenges ahead.

"I believe that the combined talent of the Board, the staff and community membership means that the organisation is well-placed to provide a focus for nature conservation issues in the region," he said.

Dr Wykes said he planned to continue efforts within a range of NCMR programs.

"After four years at the helm, I am absolutely delighted that we have achieved a smooth transition of leadership that will ensure continued focus on ensuring that the special environment of our region is sustained and nurtured," Dr Wykes said.

"My time with Nature Conservation has been a 'career' highlight, irrespective of its voluntary basis.

"I look forward to greater capacity to participate in Nature Conservation's citizen science programs while continuing as a member of the Board, and as it's Deputy Chair."

Dr Cresswell completed a PhD at Curtin University in 1998 and from 2000 to 2009 managed OECD education assessment and monitoring projects both in Australia and in Paris.

He moved to Margaret River in 2013, and has worked most recently with the Australian Council for Educational Research.