April 5, 2013
National Farmers’ Federation president Jock Laurie announced today he is stepping down as head of the nation’s peak farm body to run for pre-selection for the National Party in the NSW seat of Northern Tablelands.
Mr Laurie, a grazier from Walcha in the New England district, was elected the 10th President of the NFF in November 2010.
Vice-President Duncan Fraser will take over the role until the next election is held at the NFF Members’ Council AGM in November.
Mr Fraser, who has served as NFF Vice-President since November 2010, owns and runs a wool, sheepmeat, rice and wheat property near Hay in the western Riverina district of NSW with his family, wife Louise and children Hugo and Catriona.
Mr Fraser paid tribute to Mr Laurie for his outstanding service as NFF President.
“Jock has advocated tirelessly for the advancement of Australian farmers over his two and a half years as President, presiding over a period of major challenges – and opportunities – for the agricultural sector,” Mr Fraser said.
“Jock has walked the halls of Federal Parliament on the major issues facing the agricultural sector during this time – everything from the carbon tax to the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, foreign investment, livestock exports, trade and drought, among many other issues – achieving respect from the nation’s Parliamentarians and achieving key outcomes for farmers across the country in the process.
“Under Jock’s leadership, NFF has continued to raise its profile, cementing its position as the peak agricultural representative body. The attendance of the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader at last year’s NFF National Congress is testament to this.
“And Jock has been a driving force for pushing the Australian agricultural sector forward, presiding over the development of the NFF-led, industry-developed Blueprint for Australian Agriculture.
“On behalf of the NFF Board, staff, members and the farmers of Australia, we wish Jock well with his future endeavours. I will strive to continue the great work he, and his predecessors, have done as head of the NFF.”
