Queensland and New South Wales grain growers will be represented by a new-look Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Northern Panel which has been appointed for the next two years.
The panel was announced by the GRDC Board and comprises three new and seven returning members, who together will help guide priorities for research, development and extension (RD&E) investments to deliver enduring profitability to grain growers.
Parkes grain grower Mark Swift. Photo supplied
Appointed to the Northern Panel for the first time are crop agronomy and physiology expert Felicity Harris, Parkes grain grower Mark Swift and grain grower and Lawson Grains Regional Manager Nick Ennis.
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.
GRDC Northern Panel Chair Arthur Gearon welcomed the arrival of new members and acknowledged the three panel members stepping down after serving as representatives for their industry.
Grain grower and Lawson Grains Regional Manager Nick Ennis. Photo supplied
"We say farewell to Parkes grain grower Bruce Watson, grains researcher and Rice Breeding Australia CEO Georgina Pengilley and NSW Riverina grain grower Roy Hamilton, who have all made outstanding contributions to the grains industry through their involvement with the GRDC Northern Panel," Mr Gearon said.
"Their insight, expertise and comprehensive understanding of the challenges and constraints encountered by northern 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 Northern Panel and the wider GRDC organisation, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for their dedication."
The returning panellists are West Wyalong grain grower Roger Bolte; agronomy engineer Fernanda Dreccer; Mungindi agronomist Jo Weier; Emerald agronomist Belinda Chase; Albury grain grower Murray Scholz; and Blackville agronomist and consultant Sarah Ball. Mr Gearon will remain Northern 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 northern region.
