AU: New appointments to help lead citrus industry
The new additions to the IAC are the result of an ongoing research and development (R&D) review that Citrus Australia initiated over 18 months ago; a new five year R&D plan; and the changing landscape of the industry’s regional and national structure.
The new members are AgriExchange Manager Richie Roberts; Queensland grower & nurseryman Wayne Parr; Manassen Foods Group Executive Director Richard Findlay and extension specialist Gavin Foord.
Citrus Australia CEO Judith Damiani says the new members were appointed after an open and rigorous process and are well-equipped to complement the existing committee.
“Richie, Wayne, Richard and Gavin bring significant exporting, agribusiness, research and development and citrus growing experience. Having them on board gives me great confidence that the IAC is now in the best position possible to oversee the plan and the improvements in our industry,” she said.
The IAC is tasked with overseeing the delivery of the industry’s new five-year R&D plan, developed by growers and industry during the previous 12 months of Citrus Australia-led consultation.
To help the IAC, Citrus Australia and Horticulture Australia are also enhancing their operation teams and their links with regional and national committees. “We are now at the most exciting part of our restructure - the move to streamline the industry representative plans and structures is almost complete, giving growers more efficient and effective use of their levies,” says Judith.
At the next meeting of the IAC on 20 September, the committee will review the current levy programs against the new R&D plan and identify investment priorities for 2013-14.
The new members join existing committee representatives: Riverina grower Michael Crook (chair); Citrus Australia Chair Tania Chapman; Murray Valley grower Kevin Cock; Favco Group CEO Greg Dhnaram; and Apple & Pear Australia Chair John Lawrenson.
For more information:
Citrus Australia
Tel: +61 03-5023 6333
www.citrusaustralia.com.au