FAR Australia appoints two distinguished Non-Executive Directors to its board and acknowledges departing Director
Australian based field applied researcher, developer and extension provider is pleased to announce the appointments of two accomplished Non-Executive Directors to its board, whilst bidding farewell to a valued Non-Executive Director with thanks for his dedicated service.
New Non-Executive Director Andrew Fowler is Esperance (WA) based and owns and manages Chilwell Farms with his family. The large-scale farm produces wheat, canola and pasture legumes, wool, lamb & beef. Mr Fowler is very focused on continuous improvement, and continues to learn from research, and adopt profitable and sustainable farming systems suited to the higher rainfall environment. Over time his industry knowledge has grown enormously from roles with SEPWA, the local grower group, Nuffield Australia and Nuffield International, where he has been exposed to leading ideas and concepts and has experienced firsthand best practice in action.
Based in Swan Hill, Victoria, new Non-Executive Director Dr Leigh Vial is an experienced agricultural producer, researcher and leader, with both national and international research and development experience. Demonstrating leadership and change, Dr Vial has sat on a number of research and agribusiness boards and committees. In 2006, he was awarded a Nuffield Scholarship where he focused on aerobic rice which provided him with the skills to play a part in refreshing the Australian rice industry’s R&D strategy to put greater focus on water productivity. He led the International Rice Research Institute’s (IRRI) Experiment Station through a reform and modernisation process.
“These distinguished individuals bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a fresh perspective that will be invaluable in guiding our organisation as it continues to push the boundaries of field applied research within the Australian grains industry,” says Andrew Rice, FAR Australia Board Chairman.
“We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr Anthony Gregson who has been an instrumental part of our board for seven years. His dedication, vision, and unwavering support has played a pivotal role in FAR Australia’s growth and success.
“Dr Gregson has been an invaluable member of the board and his contributions have left an enduring mark on the organisation. On behalf of the FAR Australia board and staff, I would like to extend our sincere thanks and wish Dr Gregson the very best in all his future endeavours.”
These new appointments were effective 25th September with their first meeting due to be held on 2nd November.