The Australian Sheep Breeders’ Association has appointed Margot Falconer as chief executive and secretary for the association and the annual Australian Sheep & Wool Show.
Ms Falconer will take the reins for the planning and running of the show – the largest event of its type in the world – held in the regional centre of Bendigo each July.
The show brings together the country’s top sheep breeders to benchmark the industry’s innovation and excellence, from major competition arenas, to showcases for the best in woolcraft, fashion, food and associated industries.
Ms Falconer was the general manager for the Bendigo Advertiser and brings strong business and community-building skills to the role.
She has been involved across all areas of the community as a sponsor and partner – including with the ASBA – and also with local, state and federal governments, not-for-profit organisations and businesses.
Ms Falconer has been actively involved with the Bendigo Jockey Club for the past 11 years – currently holding the position of Vice-Chair – and is also on the board of the Salvation Army Advisory; Bendigo Trust Foundation and; past board positions have included Future Employment Opportunities, Regional One Community Grant committee, Bendigo Inventor Awards, and Chair of the Sport Star of the Year Awards committee.
ASBA president Malcolm Starritt said that with an exciting year ahead for the event, the association was looking forward to working with Mrs Falconer to build on the record attendances and important industry platforming required to grow the sheep breeding industry and showcase its achievements.
“We are also looking forward to continuing strong links with the Bendigo community and its large agricultural industry,” Mr Starritt said.
“It is the ease of access to this location that has seen not only competitor numbers grow, but increasing numbers of urban visitors discovering where the best of food and fibre comes from.”
