Agricultural scientist Dr Sara Hely and grains industry consultant David ‘Rock’ Hudson have been appointed to the Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) Board of Management following the departure of new GRDC managing director Steve Jefferies, OAM.
At the recent Future Farmers Expo, BCG Board Chair Caroline Welsh introduced the two new board members.
“Sara and Rock bring with them grains industry, research and business experience,” she said.
“We feel very fortunate to have them joining the BCG Board.”
Dr Hely is currently managing strategic projects for DEDJTR’s agriculture and rural secretary’s office.
She has over 15 years’ experience in grains and agriculture research, including working with the State Government and with the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) managing projects examining climate change and plant varieties.
Dr Hely gained a PhD from the University of NSW studying the impacts of climate change and higher atmospheric carbon dioxide on wheat. She is also on the Crawford Fund Victoria committee member.
Mr Hudson, who is managing director of his own consulting business SGA solutions, has been involved in the grains industry for over 30 years.
He is highly regarded for his innovative work on developing pathways to market and the uptake of GM technologies, and over his career has developed extensive networks across the grains and research sectors.
Mr Hudson has also held a number of board positions including seven years with the Kondinin Group.
Ms Welsh said Dr Hely and Mr Hudson had a lot to offer BCG and their skills and experience would complement BCG’s existing board of management.
“With Sara’s strong research background and skills in strategic planning, data technology, digital channels and innovative extension models, and Rock’s extensive experience on boards and as CEO and executive officer within the private and public sector, the BCG Board is very excited to welcome them,” she said.
