Adams’ election follows a decision by Tasmanian grower, David Addison, to stand down as Deputy Chair after three years in the role. Addison will continue to serve on the AUSVEG Board.

“During his time as AUSVEG Deputy Chair, David has worked tirelessly to ensure vegetable and potato growers all around the country have been represented on important industry issues,” said AUSVEG CEO, Simon Bolles. “The AUSVEG Board thanks David for his hard work and dedication to the industry during his time in the role, and I am confident that Belinda will utilise her extensive experience across many sectors of our industry to be a hugely valuable contributor as Deputy Chair.”

“AUSVEG continues to be one of the most respected and influential agricultural representative bodies in the country, and the organisation’s success is driven by the depth of industry and business knowledge represented in its Board, which delivers strong leadership and direction for the company.”

The meeting coincided with the AUSVEG AGM, which was attended by representatives from all of the state grower organisations.

“2016 has been a hugely successful year for AUSVEG, with our organisation continuing to forge a strong position in all aspects of its business and in our representation of the interests of vegetable and potato growers to all levels of government,” Bolles said. “Given the current economic climate of increasing production costs and tighter margins hurting our growers, it is vital that AUSVEG continues to fight for the interests of vegetable and potato growers in Canberra and in the media.”

“AUSVEG looks forward to continuing its success in representing Australian vegetable and potato growers in the year ahead.”