South Australian, Victorian and Tasmanian grain growers will be represented by a new-look Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Southern Panel which has been appointed for the next two years from 1 September 2025.
The panel was announced by the GRDC Board and comprises four new and six returning members, who together will help guide priorities for research, development and extension (RD&E) investments to deliver enduring profitability to grain growers.
Appointed to the Southern Panel for the first time are Victorian grain grower Wayne Burton, Yorke Peninsula grain grower Max Young, grains research and extension specialist Greta Duff, and South Australian agronomist Adam Hancock.
GRDC welcomes the new members of the GRDC Southern Panel: Victorian grain grower Wayne Burton (top left), Yorke Peninsula grain grower Max Young (top right), grains research and extension specialist Greta Duff (bottom left), and South Australian agronomist Adam Hancock (bottom right). Photos supplied.
GRDC Chair Sharon Starick said that the incoming panel members will contribute a wide range of skills and expertise that will complement the experience of existing members.
"The GRDC Board was extremely impressed with the quality of applicants, underscoring the significant industry value and respect associated with the GRDC regional panels," Mrs Starick said.
Our objective was to achieve a balance of expertise and experience, ensuring a geographic representation reflective of the grains industry and capable of providing thoughtful and informed guidance on industry needs, priorities and proposed GRDC investments.
Mrs Starick said the GRDC regional panels played a critical role identifying and prioritising local, regional and national grains industry issues informed by their industry networks and firsthand understanding.
"We are confident this panel will support GRDC to continue making innovative, targeted, strategic and transformational RD&E investments," she said.
GRDC Southern Panel Chair Andrew Russell welcomed the arrival of new members and acknowledged the four panel members stepping down after serving as representatives for their industry.
"We say farewell to Eyre Peninsula grain grower Michael Treloar, scientific researcher and strategic leader Neil Fisher, Tasmanian grain grower Peter Damen, and grower and farming systems researcher Dr Patricia Flynn, who have all made outstanding contributions to the grains industry through their involvement with the GRDC Southern Panel," Mr Russell said.
"Their insight, expertise and comprehensive understanding of the challenges and constraints encountered by southern region grain growers have been instrumental in guiding GRDC RD&E investments.
"These efforts ensured that initiatives were tailored to meet the practical needs of growers while also addressing broader industry challenges.
On behalf of both the Southern Panel and the wider GRDC organisation, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for their dedication.
The returning panellists are extension specialist Pru Cook, Birchip grain grower Tim McClelland, South Australian agro-ecologist and grower Ruth Sommerville, Port Lincoln research agronomist Andrew Ware, and scientific leader Dr Kathy Ophal-Keller. Mr Russell will remain Southern Panel Chair.
The new Panel's first task will be the annual GRDC spring tour, visiting regional growers, advisers and researchers to assess opportunities and challenges in the southern region.
