The 2022 BCG Annual General Meeting was held on Monday October 24 at the BCG office in Birchip.
Chairman, John Ferrier, noted in his report that the COVID pandemic continued to add additional layers of complexity but it did not thwart the efforts or adaptability of staff who continued to deliver quality research and extension outcomes for the benefit of our members and industry.
“Our research team delivered trials and while opportunities for face-to-face events were limited, the extension and communications teams adapted with online teleconferences and outdoor activities wherever possible. The finance and administration team has delivered a strong set of figures this year that have put BCG in the strongest position it has been in for some years.
“I am proud of BCG’s efforts, and I thank the staff team, ably led by CEO Fiona Best, for not only staying the course, but identifying and capitalising on the opportunities that have presented themselves. I am particularly excited about our involvement in the Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub.
“BCG remains a grassroots organisation with a commitment to independent and innovative research at its core. Challenges such as the pandemic and droughts remind us that the future is not certain, and organisations must be flexible and ready for what lies ahead.”
CEO report
BCG CEO, Fiona Best, highlighted the adoption of the new BCG Strategic Plan and the key areas of consideration;
- Enhanced Farming Systems—Research and Extension
- Collaborative delivery
- Great people
- Farm, community and environmental wellbeing; and
- Sustainable resources and infrastructure
The CEO also highlighted the significant investment over the last twelve months in the development of BCG Nexus—a bold and exciting accommodation and conference facility project. Initially as a concept, which then evolved into the development of concept plans and the publication of an investment prospectus. BCG will work hard over the next twelve months to progress activity on this impactful project.
The proactive decision by the Board to invest in the BCG Young Farmer Network was of note for the year. Recognition that BCG has a vital role to play in the development of the next generation of farmers, in not only skills and knowledge but in providing opportunities for developing a lifelong network with those around them with similar challenges and aspirations.
Future Drought Fund—BCG’s role in the Victorian Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub continues to provide opportunities for the region to ensure farmers and communities are better placed to manage through periods of drought into the future. BCG is keen to hear from all those in the region who have ideas to share regarding what the agricultural industry and communities could be doing better to build resilience. Ms Best said she has been pleased to hold the role of Deputy Director for the Victorian Hub.
Treasurer’s report
BCG Treasurer, Greg Kuchel, reported that for the fourth consecutive year, BCG recorded an operating surplus.
As a result, BCG is now operating on a more secure, financial footing. The strengthened financial position of recent years provides the Board with increased financial comfort and added confidence and flexibility with investment decisions.
It was noted that the introduction of internal systems to support the Accounting Standards requirements for recognising income has also been important. These systems have provided greater transparency with BCG obligations and entitlements with project payments.
It was also reported that the number of BCG members increased for the second year running.
BCG Board composition
The BCG Board remains unchanged following the AGM. Ian McClelland renominated for a three-year term. No other nominations were received.
David Hudson, one of four co-opted Board members, was reappointed for a three-year term.
Office bearer positions are determined by the Board at the first meeting following the AGM, usually held in early February.
Change to the BCG Rules of Association
Members were asked to consider an adjustment to the composition of the Board, as set out in the BCG Rules of Association.
The amendment provides the capacity for the outgoing Chairperson to continue on the Board for 12 months if that Chairperson’s current term is expiring, and they are not seeking a further full three-year term of office.
The additional clause was developed by Landers & Rogers Lawyers following instruction from BCG. Landers & Rogers reviewed the implications of the addition as a broader review of the BCG Rules of Association.
The AGM supported the addition of the proposed clause to be added to the BCG Rules of Association:
- Election of Outgoing Chairperson as Board Member for a Further Term
(a) A Chairperson who is at the conclusion of their officeholding and is not seeking a further full Term of Office may be elected to remain on the Board at the annual general meeting of the Association.
(b) A Member of the Board elected pursuant to subrule 36(a) is to be elected for a term not exceeding 12 months, ending on the first annual general meeting following their reappointment.
(c) A Member of the Board elected pursuant to subrule 36(a) shall remain in office as Chairperson from the date of the annual general meeting until the first Board meeting after the annual general meeting, at which the Board shall elect a new Chairperson pursuant to subrule 35(c).
