New NSW Farmers president Rebecca Reardon. Photo: NSW Farmers Facebook.

• Reardon elected as NSW Farmers president
• Changing of guard at GPA
• Hood named Wingara CEO
• Bayer Crop Science leadership changes
• RBA announces interim CEO
• Murray goes solo
• NSW Farmers Scholarship recipients
• New Pacific Seeds territory manager
• Bounds joins RAGT Australia
• Crawford joins Terragen
• Leadership changes at Bentleys
• New valuation path for Knight
• New Port Authority chair
• Rabobank award recipients named

Reardon elected as NSW Farmers president

Moree farmer Rebecca Reardon has been elected as the new president of the NSW Farmers Association, after serving in the role of vice president for the past four years.

Ms Reardon is actively involved, with her husband Dan, in their mixed grain and livestock farming business, and brings extensive commercial sector experience to the role.

NSW Farmers vice president Justin Everitt

She has over 20 years in leadership roles for agribusiness companies, specialising in supply chain management and international and domestic commodity marketing in grains and fertilisers.

“My inspiration for stepping into this role is to get agriculture in NSW and NSW Farmers Association in a stronger place for the next generation,” Ms Reardon said.

“If farmers and rural communities don’t have a voice, they’ll be dealt a poorer hand.”

Brocklesby grain grower and livestock producer Justin Everitt was elected as incoming NSW vice president.

Mr Everitt and wife Kate produce wheat, canola, barley, lupins, wool and prime lambs and trade cattle on a generational family farm.

He is recognised as a leader in the grains industry, serving as chair of the NSW Farmers Grains Committee since 2021.

Changing of guard at GPA

Grain Producers Australia has elected Northern Region director Matthew Madden as its new chair following the organisation’s annual general meeting today.

A cereals, chickpea, and sorghum grower from Moree, NSW, Mr Madden has been deputy chair since 2023, and succeeds WA grower Barry Large after five years as chair and 16 years on the GPA Board, including as one of the organisation’s founding directors.

Southern Region director and Yorke Peninsula grower Mark Schilling has been elected as deputy chair.

Mr Schilling is a volume lentil producer, and a partner and manager of a vertically integrated grain and fodder supply chain agribusiness AG Schilling & Co.

Today’s AGM also marked the departure of independent director Mitch Hooke, one of the most influential figures in Australian agricultural policy of the past four decades, who retires from the GPA Board after 11 years of service.

Hood named Wingara CEO

Wingara AG Limited has appointed Chris Hood as its chief executive officer, effective July 17.

The appointment is a key step in executing the growth strategy described in Wingara’s 2026 Annual Report.

This is based around rebuilding activity through domestic hay trading, storage coordination and agricultural logistics by applying the company’s existing grower and customer relationships, trading capability, and supply-chain knowledge.

Chris Hood.

Mr Hood is a Queensland-based business executive with experience across agricultural production, grain and fodder storage and road and rail logistics.

His experience includes co-founding Grainx Australia and developing a large-scale grain storage, handling and export containerisation business, and advancing the development of East West Road and Rail’s intermodal terminal network.

He has also founded Welcome River Capital, which has established, acquired and grown businesses across agriculture and other sectors.

Mr Hood holds a Bachelor of Business and has corporate governance experience, having served two terms as a director of the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority.

“I am grateful for the board’s confidence and excited by the opportunity to lead Wingara at such a pivotal stage in the Company’s development,” Mr Hood said.

“I look forward to working closely with the board, shareholders, growers, customers and logistics partners to advance Wingara’s existing business initiatives and shape an updated operating vision that supports sustainable growth in agricultural trading and logistics.”

Bayer Crop Science leadership changes

Bayer has announced changes to its crop Science leadership in Australia and New Zealand, alongside the planned retirement of long standing local agriculture leader Warren Inwood later in 2026.

After more than three decades with Bayer, including four years as Country Division Head of Crop Science ANZ, Mr Inwood will retire later this year.

He will remain with the business over the coming months to support a smooth and orderly transition.

Tony May

As part of this transition and in line with the scale, complexity and future growth ambitions of the Crop Science business, Bayer has confirmed a change in its leadership model for the integrated Crop Science ANZ organisation, effective July 1.

Under this model:

• Tony May will commence as head of crop protection, Bayer Crop Science ANZ; and,
• Kyle Gross will commence as head of seeds & traits, Bayer Crop Science ANZ.

Both leaders will work together as part of the Crop Science ANZ leadership team, with field teams continuing to support customers across both Crop Protection and Seeds & Traits.

Throughout his career, Mr Inwood has held senior leadership roles across global, regional and local markets and is widely respected for his people focused leadership, deep passion for agriculture and commitment to customers and industry partners.

“I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Warren for many years, and his leadership, integrity and deep commitment to agriculture have left a lasting mark on our business and our industry,” Mr May said.

“As we look ahead, our focus remains firmly on supporting farmers across Australia and New Zealand with innovative solutions and trusted partnerships that help drive productive and sustainable farming into the future.”

RBA announces interim CEO

Rice Breeding Australia chair Steve Jefferies has confirmed that Dr Chris Proud will act as interim CEO for the organisation while the role is being recruited, following the resignation of current CEO Dr Georgina Pengilley.

Dr Chris Proud.

“We are sad to see Georgie go, but we wish her all the very best in her new role,” Dr Jefferies said.

“It was always her plan to establish a strong foundation for RBA, before moving on to the next stage of her career. She has achieved this goal admirably.

“Thanks to the diligent work of Georgie and the RBA team, we now have the right people, processes and capacity in place to deliver the urgent water productivity gains the industry needs.

“A key part of this was delivering a new state-of-the-art research facility at Leeton, thanks to investment of rice growers levies through AgriFutures.

“Construction is now almost complete, setting up rice research and breeding, and in turn the Australian rice industry, for the long-term.

“It means RBA is very well placed to continue to deliver for Australian rice growers.”

The RBA Board will be going to market for a replacement CEO immediately.

Murray goes solo

After 22 years as a rural property real estate agent with a national agriculture supply company, Dalby-based Ross Murray has taken the opportunity to branch out on his own, establishing Ross Murray Rural.

Ross Murray.

Mr Murray will continue to service Dalby and the surrounding areas, as well as Queensland’s Western Downs region.

Having specialised in both farming and grazing property sales, Mr Murray said he has gained a thorough knowledge of the requirements involved in purchasing and selling a range of rural enterprises.

“More recently, I have developed a thorough understanding of the marketing of timbered grazing country and its limitations since the introduction of land clearing requirements in relation to Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation legislation.”

Mr Murray said he is ready to discuss the implications and consequences of purchasing grazing country with standing timber, along with the associated risks and rewards.

“I am looking forward to extending existing relationships and fostering new ones through my continued involvement in rural property, farm clearing sales and associated interests.”

NSW Farmers Scholarship recipients

Five young rural leaders have been named successful recipients of the NSW Farmers Tertiary Scholarships at its Annual Conference..

NSW Farmers awards five tertiary scholarships annually to members or their children with the objective of supporting their university or vocational qualification in a field relevant to agriculture, or to regional and rural Australia.

“As the state’s peak farming body, we have made a commitment to help the next generation access the wealth of opportunities and careers that exist in rural Australia – and this scholarship program is one way we can assist with that,” NSW Young Farmers chair Jess Ryan said.

“Investing in skill development and building capacity is essential if we want our future leaders to find their passion and get the head start they need to achieve their goals.”

The scholarships are valued at $4000 each to assist students pursuing further study and careers that contribute to agriculture and regional communities.

Scholarship recipients present at the conference were Mack Johnston, Blainey Heath and Olivia Twyford, pictured with NSW Premier Chris Minns and NSW Young Farmers chair Jess Ryan.

The 2026 NSW Farmers Tertiary Scholarship recipients were:

• Blainey Heath of Crudine was awarded the L O’Brien Scholarship (Agriculture). He is studying Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Laws at University of New England.
• Phoebe Lenehan of Harden was awarded the John White Memorial Scholarship. She is studying a Bachelor of Clinical Science and Doctor of Medicine at Charles Sturt University.
• Ruby Tighe of Pallamallawa was awarded the Alan Chapman Memorial Scholarship. She is studying Bachelor of Education (K-6) at the University of New England.
• Mack Johnston of Coonamble was awarded the Graham Blatch Memorial Goobang Scholarship. He is studying a combined Mechatronic Engineering and Commerce degree at University of Sydney.
• Olivia Twyford of Bumbaldry was awarded the Paul Lockyer Memorial Scholarship. She is studying a Double Bachelor of Laws/Liberal Arts at Australian Catholic University.

New Pacific Seeds territory manager

Pacific Seeds is pleased to announce the appointment of Angela Herbison as territory manager for Lockyer and Fassifern Valley, Wide Bay, Burnett and Northern Rivers NSW, strengthening the company’s commitment to supporting customers with trusted advice and reliable service.

Angela Herbison.

Ms Herbison brings experience in customer service, warehouse and logistics and having previously worked closely with Pacific Seeds customers across the region to ensure they have the products they need, when and where there need them.

Her understanding of the seed industry and the importance of timely delivery means she appreciates the critical role territory managers plays in a successful season.

Ms Herbison’s experience and customer-first approach made her a valuable addition to the territory sales team.

Her appointment reinforces Pacific Seeds’ ongoing investment in delivering exceptional service and support to customers across Australia.

Steven Bounds.

Bounds joins RAGT Australia

Steven Bounds has been appointed as RAGT Australia’s new territory business manager for Western Victoria and South Australia.

Mr Bounds joins RAGT with 17 years of experience across rural merchandise, agricultural sales, crop protection and fertiliser, backed by a family farming background that has given him a genuine understanding of Australian agriculture and the needs of growers.

His passion for the industry, practical knowledge and commitment to supporting customers make him a valuable addition to the team.

When he’s not working with growers and agronomists, Mr Bounds enjoys spending time with his family, getting outdoors, camping, following Australian motorsport and perfecting smoked meats on the barbecue.

Crawford joins Terragen

Biological products company Terragen has appointed Maree Crawford in its new role as manager innovation and adoption.

Maree Crawford.

Ms Crawford has extensive experience across agronomy, fertiliser innovation, crop and livestock production, and the commercial adoption of emerging agricultural technologies.

She was most recently senior manager agronomy and innovation with Mort & Co, and since 2017 has been a director of the Tosari Crop Research Centre on Qld’s Darling downs.

With Terragen, she will be working with producers, advisers, retailers and industry partners to help translate Terragen’s microbial science and product development into on-farm application.

Ms Crawford is the Terragen’s first dedicated on-ground representative in Qld, and means Terragen’s team now spans every state of Australia.

“Maree brings a rare combination of technical knowledge, commercial understanding and on-farm credibility,” Terragen CEO Richard Norton said.

“She understands the pressure producers and advisers are under, and she knows how to help turn innovation into something that can be used confidently in the paddock.”

Leadership changes at Bentleys

Ben Cameron

After 17 years as managing partner with Brisbane’s bush accountants, Bentleys Queensland, Ben Cameron will step back from the role and hand the baton on to the next generation of leaders.

Stepping into the managing partners’ roles will be Tina Kiernan and Andrew Keily.

Both began their careers with Bentleys as graduates.

Since first taking on the role in 2009, Mr Cameron has led the firm through a period of significant growth, change and investment.

He will continue as a partner in Bentleys Business Services team.

New valuation path for Knight

Doug Knight.

Well-known rural property valuer Doug Knight is transitioning into a new role this month as quality director – agribusiness with Herron Todd White.

The role will broadly involve a combination of quality assurance of rural valuation reports together with guidance and support to the younger staff within the HTW agri-group.

A 40-year veteran of the property valuations field, he had worked for the past eight years with JLL as director, agribusiness valuations and advisory.

New Port Authority chair

Port Authority of New South Wales is pleased to announce the appointment of board director Justine Jarvinen as its new chair.

Port Authority of NSW CEO John McKenna said Ms Jarvinen’s appointment comes at an important time for the organisation as it continues to deliver on its vision under Strategy 2030.

“Ms Jarvinen…has served on the Port Authority Board since April 2022 and brings a wealth of experience in governance, sustainability, infrastructure and strategic leadership,” Mr McKenna said.

Justine Jarvinen.

“Her appointment as chair reflects her strong contribution to Port Authority over recent years and I look forward to working closely with her as we continue to deliver safe, sustainable and efficient port and maritime services for New South Wales.”

Mr McKenna also acknowledged outgoing chair David Marchant for his significant contribution to the organisation.

“David’s leadership, expertise and commitment have helped guide Port Authority through a period of significant progress.”

Ms Jarvinen has held executive, advisory and governance roles with organisations including Exxon, Shell, Caltex, JBWere and AGL Energy, and is currently principal of Finncorn Consulting and a director of the UNSW Foundation.

Rabobank award recipients named

Two progressive Australian farm operators receive inaugural Rabobank Land Stewardship Award Queensland pastoralist Ardie Lord and New South Wales mixed farmer Danny Flanery have each been named a recipient of the inaugural Rabobank Land Stewardship Award.

Danny Flanery.

Announcing the 2026 award recipients, Rabobank Australia group executive Country Banking Marcel van Doremaele said both inaugural winners had distinguished themselves with “their progressive approach to caring for their land while contributing to a strong, productive and sustainable agricultural sector”.

“Both Danny and Ardie have successfully demonstrated they have put in place very practical actions that strengthen the long-term performance of their businesses and the health of the land they manage,” Mr van Doremaele said.

Mr van Doremaele said across Australia, farmers were “investing in healthy soils, biodiversity, water management and more resilient production systems, with a shared belief that healthy land is the foundation of a successful business and a resilient, future ready agricultural sector”.

“This award is an opportunity to recognise and share those stories and to showcase what land stewardship looks like in practice across different regions, sectors and farming systems.”

Mr Flanery, who runs a third-generation mixed grazing and cropping operation, Boorowa Flats, at Galong in southern New South Wales, has focused on long-term landscape repair through tree planting, creek protection and adaptive grazing management.

This followed a chance helicopter joy flight above his family farming property in 1990s, where he saw first-hand the impacts of many years of overgrazing on the land quality.

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