- Crisafulli Government appoints experienced banker Brooke Irwin as CEO of the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority.
- Appointment strengthens QRIDA's leadership ahead of Queensland's summer/wet season.
- Ms Irwin is the first female CEO of QRIDA and will lead the Authority for the next three years.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering strong leadership for Queensland's rural development agency, with experienced banking professional Brooke Irwin appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority.
Ms Irwin's appointment builds on her experience in the banking sector, as well as three years as QRIDA's Chief Lending Officer and most recently, her time as Acting CEO.
Her appointment comes ahead of Queensland's summer/wet season, with QRIDA playing a critical role providing support to farmers, businesses and non-profits to both prepare for and respond to natural disasters.
Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last said Ms Irwin brought a wealth of experience and a clear understanding of Queensland's rural communities.
"Strong leadership at QRIDA is vital to deliver timely and effective support for rural and regional Queenslanders. With Ms Irwin at the helm, QRIDA is well placed to deliver strong outcomes for the regions that keep Queensland moving," Minister Last said.
"QRIDA plays a critical role in providing support during hard times and helping to unlock new opportunities for growth, and as someone who has worked in both the banking sector and as QRIDA's Chief Lending Officer, Ms Irwin has a strong understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural and regional Queensland.
"This appointment follows a recent refresh of QRIDA's Board and positions the Authority to deliver stronger results for our rural and regional sectors.
"I sincerely thank outgoing QRIDA CEO Cameron MacMillan for his leadership over the past decade, and for his significant contribution to rural Queensland."
QRIDA Chair Caitlin McConnel said Ms Irwin would lead the Authority with a clear focus on delivering practical support to foster the development of a more productive and sustainable rural and regional sector.
"Brooke understands the crucial role that primary producers, businesses and rural communities play in Queensland's economy, and that building financial resilience to economic or climatic shocks begins with structured, proactive programs and services," Ms McConnel said.
"She has a deep and respected knowledge of QRIDA's operations, employees, and clients that will ensure continuity and stability; whilst her strategic leadership will ensure that QRIDA continues to build upon its existing financial assistance capabilities for the benefit of all stakeholders.
"On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Brooke to the role and look forward to working closely with her to deliver practical outcomes that strengthen rural and regional Queensland."
