NABO is keen that boaters and other people with relevant skills should consider applying to fill one of seven positions on each of the new trial local Waterway Partnerships’ advisory bodies. Could that be you?

Members of the Advisory Bodies will have a unique opportunity to work with and advise local waterway managers and to champion the interests of the canal network in the West Midlands and North West until the new waterways charity becomes fully operational in 2012.

The chairman for each of the new trial Partnerships has been appointed. Now the Waterways Trust is looking recruit at least seven members to each of these Partnerships.

Members will have a range of knowledge, skills and experience relevant to the development of waterways for the widest public benefit. Relevant interests and expertise will include:

• Boaters
• Waterway users – including walkers, anglers, cyclists
• Fundraising
• Volunteering
• Finance
• Commerce
• Planning and regeneration
• Environment and heritage
• Engineering and asset management
• Community engagement
• Working with partners in local government, commercial and charitable sectors.

You will be locally based, approachable, a team player, credible, knowledgeable and willing to take a lead in one or more of the relevant areas of expertise. You must also be able to commit adequate time to ensure the success of the trial Partnership.

The duty of all members of the Partnership will be to act in the best interests of the waterway rather than to represent any particular interests or causes. The aim is to have each of the new Partnerships operational by the end of May 2011.

The deadline for applications to fill the remaining positions on each of the trial Partnerships is 3 May 2011. Interviews will be held in the two weeks beginning 9 and 16 May 2011. All positions will be unpaid, but agreed expenses will be reimbursed.