Dr Darren Fielder is a nationally respected environmental scientist and strategic advisor with over 30 years of experience spanning ecological assessment, conservation planning, environmental regulation, and cultural heritage. As Director and General Manager of Redleaf Group, Darren leads the company’s multi-disciplinary team, overseeing the integration of environmental, cultural heritage, and Indigenous engagement services across diverse government and private sector projects throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Darren is recognised for his leadership in delivering complex environmental approvals under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, Nature Conservation Act, and Vegetation Management Act. He is equally adept at managing cultural heritage and native title assessments, having led collaborative engagement with Traditional Owner groups and Councils to ensure culturally respectful and legislatively compliant outcomes.

Prior to establishing Redleaf Group, Darren held senior roles in the Queensland Government where he was instrumental in the development of the state’s core biodiversity planning frameworks. He led the Biodiversity Planning Assessments (BPAs/BAMM) and co-authored the Aquatic Conservation Assessments (ACAs/AquaBAMM), which continue to underpin Queensland’s wetland conservation policy and broader legislative instruments for environmental protection.

In the private sector, Darren has led strategic environmental and cultural heritage inputs into major infrastructure projects, including the Cressbrook Dam Safety Improvement Project, securing approvals for Matters of State and National Environmental Significance (MSES/MNES) and guiding stakeholder engagement in partnership with Toowoomba Regional Council.

Darren’s vision and strategic insight have positioned Redleaf Group as a trusted partner to clients seeking practical, science-based, and culturally informed solutions. He continues to mentor emerging professionals and deliver industry-leading training on environmental compliance, protected flora and fauna, and cultural heritage assessment practices.

ASSOCIATIONS

• Australian Society of Herpetology