QUEENSLAND farmer Brent Finlay has been re-elected unopposed as the president of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) for a third term.
He was re-elected at the NFF Members’ Council meeting and AGM in Canberra yesterday afternoon.
NSW mixed farmer and grazier, Fiona Simson was also returned to the role of vice-president at the AGM.
All five directors from the previous Board were reappointed to their positions: ricegrower, Les Gordon; mixed farmer and grazier, Peter Tuohey; beef producer, Grant Maudsley; mixed farmer and grazier, David Jochinke; and beef producer, Mark Horan.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr Finlay said he was humbled to continue at the helm at such an important time for Australian agriculture.
“This is an exciting time for Australian farmers. We’re forecast this year to reach a record $57.1 billion in farmgate earnings, and we have every expectation that agriculture may be Australia’s next $100 billion industry,” Mr Finlay said.
“Over the past year we’ve made significant progress in brokering new trade deals to access key Asian markets, hungry for safe, clean and sustainable Aussie produce.
“From market access through to long-term drought policy, tax reform, trade, land and water management, there are some major issues in the public domain which have a major bearing on the livelihood of farmers.
“The NFF will continue to play a pivotal role on these issues and more in the year ahead. At the same time, the NFF as an organisation continues to go through a process of renewal,” Mr Finlay said.
