This decision directly reflects the urgency that Directors feel towards mitigating climate change and protecting the environment for future generations. Through the wind-up, the Foundation has intentionally focused its resources towards environmental projects.

While we’re sad to say farewell, the Foundation leaves such a wonderful legacy of good philanthropic practice and many strong organisations that it has supported, it’s a celebration!

The more I’ve got to know the Limb Family Foundation and especially Janet, Julia and Ali, the more I have respected the way they have applied a strategic lens to their grantmaking, especially combining their knowledge of the NGO sector and their professional and personal skills, interests and background to back organisations that have led to significant change.

Of course, this is best illustrated by the Foundation’s funding of The Guardian and its environment reporting. Since 2019, the Foundation’s funding has allowed Guardian Australia to undertake forensic, deep environmental investigations that go beyond what’s possible in the everyday news cycle. I’m so pleased that this was recognised by the AEGN/Philanthropy Australia 2021 Environmental Philanthropy Award.

The Foundation has supported 134 organisations with grants totalling just over $17 million. This includes a regular yearly donation to the AEGN and in particular a grant of $100,000 to the AEGN’s Sustaining Fund, giving the AEGN a sound financial footing over uncertain times.

Janet, Julia and Ali have been an integral part of the AEGN for many years and it has been a pleasure seeing them at events and on field trips. As a recent former board member, Julia has left the AEGN with an ambitious and impactful new strategic plan, and for this we will always be grateful. We thank them for all they have done and for being honest, thoughtful, respectful, strategic and passionate.

The AEGN will shortly write a story on the Limb Family Foundation and the decision to spend it down. In the meantime, I hope that Janet, Julia and Ali will remain involved with the AEGN, so watch this space!