A dynamic and multi-talented group of young agricultural leaders met for the first time this week as the Young Farmers Advisory Council was revealed.
Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford addressed the eight-member council on the importance of engaging with young farmers across regional Victoria, as well as continuing discussions on dry conditions in East and Central Gippsland and what support may be needed.
The Council includes regionally-diverse representatives with a wide range of skills and expertise as leaders in the livestock and horticulture industries, community advocacy, workforce development and wellbeing.
Four new members have been selected for the Young Farmer Advisory Council including:
- Dustin Kemp, Rochester
- Sarah McLean, Purnim
- Jennifer Zappia, Mildura
- Alastair Tame, Strathbogie
Two returning members of the Young Farmers Ministerial Advisory Council – Sarah Thompson and Tom McGrath – have been reappointed to the Council. They will be joined by Pete Burgess from the Young Agribusiness Professionals and Jess Pilgrim from the Victorian Young Farmers Network.
The Council will provide advice to the Andrews Labor Government on issues affecting young farmers and delivery of programs to support young people in agriculture.
The Labor Government is supporting Victoria’s next generation of food and fibre leaders through a range of programs, including the Young Farmer Business Bootcamps and Young Farmers Upskill and Invest Scholarships.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
"Our young farmers are our future and we’re so proud to work alongside our next generation in setting policy and providing advice direct to government."
"The advice provided by the Young Farmers Advisory Council will help ensure we continue to have effective programs and initiatives to support young farmers."
"I congratulate all members of the Young Farmers Advisory Council and look forward to working with them to take our industry forward."
