The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) congratulates one of its Board Directors, Dr Tracy Sullivan, on her recent appointment to the newly established National Food Council.
As one of 11 representatives appointed via a highly competitive expression of interest process, Dr Sullivan is a widely experienced cattle veterinarian who deeply understands beef production from the paddock to the plate. Importantly, Dr Sullivan is also a proud AVA Member and Board Director, and her veterinary lens will provide a unique perspective in informing the National Food Council's work.
Dr Sullivan holds both Bachelor and Master degrees in veterinary science from Murdoch University, a PhD in veterinary science from the University of Queensland focusing on beef cattle, and a Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Studies from Notre Dame University. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a 2024 Churchill Fellow.
With Australia's agriculture, fisheries and forestry production predicted to reach a record value of more than $100 billion this financial year, the stakes have never been higher for our food supply chain. As part of her role, Dr Sullivan will provide expert advice to the Minister for Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry, The Hon Julie Collins MP, on those issues that threaten this profitability by compromising the security and sustainability of the nation's food supply.
"Critically, over 75% of new or emerging diseases in humans originate in animals, and we cannot afford to ignore the challenge this represents for our food and supply chains. Veterinarians are more important than ever in managing these direct threats to our food security, biosecurity and sustainable farming practices." said Dr Gemma Chuck, President of the AVA.
The AVA would like to acknowledge Minister Julie Collins and Senator Anthony Chisholm for appointing AVA Director, Dr Tracy Sullivan, and thank them for their continuing support of Australia's veterinary profession.
