By TIM JACKSON
Almonds Australia chief executive
THE almond industry’s new leadership program is officially underway.
The first intake includes representatives from three states and all of the major growing regions: Jo-Anne Bond (Almondco), Matt Clearwater (Customised Farm Management), Thomas Douglas (Outback Almonds), Ben Hayward (GO.FARM), Gemma Jealous (Century Orchards), Melina Mueller (Walker Flat Almonds),
Bryce Victor (CMV Farms Loxton), Thuy Vu (Almondco).
There are many opportunities for people to have a leadership role in our industry, so it’s critical the future generations are supported and encouraged to take on these positions.
In addition to the eight grower and four marketer positions on the Almond Board of Australia, we also have several subcommittees which meet regularly to discuss market development, processing, production, plant improvement, pollination, water, chemicals and the Almond Centre of Excellence.
This leadership program also ensures we are continually upskilling people who are passionate about our industry and want to see it thrive.
Throughout the almond supply chain we need great leaders who inspire others, who are motivated to address challenges and seize opportunities as they arise.
The Growing Almond Leaders Program is funded by Hort Innovation using grower levies and contributions from the Federal Government.
Jeanette Gellard from Innovative Influences, Susie Green from Susie Green Consulting and former Almond Board of Australia chief executive Ross Skinner are delivering the program and participants met in person for a two-day workshop in Mildura in late January.
The group of eight actively engaged in the course, enthusiastically participating in activities and group discussions and they will continue to meet online and in person in the coming months, for personal and professional development, while also getting a deeper insight into the industry by participating in field trips and other activities.
Each participant has also been matched with a mentor who will provide valuable insights and guidance.
I am very grateful to the mentors who have agreed to support the leadership participants and I’m certain they’ll add great value to the program in the months ahead.
The course is due to conclude in October and all participants will be presenting their industry assignment to the wider industry at the biennial Australian Almonds R&D.
I look forward to seeing what topics the leadership group identifies and works on as part of this program.
The almond industry leadership program will be run annually and the feedback provided by this inaugural group of participants will play an important role in shaping the content and structure for future years.
Applications for the next round will be called for by the ABA later this year.
