Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) has announced the appointment of Ms. Fiona Best as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ms. Best, who replaces former CEO Chris Sounness, will commence her new role at BCG immediately.
John Ferrier, Chairman of the BCG Board, says that Ms. Best’s appointment will ensure BCG maintains its position at the forefront of agricultural research, development and extension while retaining a razor-sharp focus on the needs of local growers.
“Fiona brings a strong agricultural background and understanding of the region to BCG. We look forward to her leading the organisation into the future and delivering practical, innovative solutions to help ensure the enduring profitability of our members and Australia’s broadacre farming sector.”
Ms. Best says that broadacre farming remains a cornerstone of the local and national economy and new developments in the industry provide exciting opportunities for farms, businesses and residents across the Wimmera and Mallee regions.
“For more than 27 years BCG has provided growers in the Wimmera and Mallee access to locally relevant, science-based independent research. I look forward to continuing that direction and doing what I can to support and inspire the current and next generation of farming families.”
“I also recognise the importance of the relationships that BCG has established with project partners and collaborators. I am committed to ensuring these connections continue and will actively pursue new opportunities to help our members stay abreast of developments in the ever-changing agriculture sector.”
Ms. Best has a Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hon) and Bachelor Commerce through University of Melbourne and a Graduate Diploma Education (Secondary). Her qualifications led her to BCG as the Farming Systems Economist in 2001.
Ms. Best was formerly a leading teacher developing and delivering the agricultural component for VCE students at Tyrrell College, Sea Lake.
