September 20, 2022
Durong grazier Georgie Somerset has been re-elected General President of AgForce.
Mrs Somerset, who has held the position since 2018, faced tough competition from AgForce Cattle Board president Will Wilson in the poll.
Following his defeat, Mr Wilson will be standing down in November from the AgForce Cattle Board, after four years as a director and four years as president.
He said he was grateful for the chance to contest AgForce’s General Presidency.
“I have really enjoyed my time as an elected (representative) and hope we were able to make a positive change for cattle members,” he said.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish AgForce all the very best for the future.”
AgForce North Queensland Cattle Director Peter Hall will step into Mr Wilson’s shoes as Cattle Board President.
There is also a new president for the Cane Board. Russell Hall will replace Ricky Mio, who chose not to renominate.
AgForce’s Southwest Sheep and Wool director Stephen Tully will take over as the new Sheep and Wool Board president, replacing Mike Pratt, who also chose not to renominate.
Grains Board president Brendan Taylor will continue in his role.
Mrs Somerset said she was proud to be able to continue to represent AgForce’s 6500 members and thanked them for their support.
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Big changes are in the wind for cattle producers with the formation of a new, national body to represent grass-fed beef producers.
Still wearing his AgForce Cattle Board president’s hat, Will Wilson said the formation of Cattle Australia was potentially just weeks away.
“On October 4, if Cattle Council of Australia members so choose, their existing organisation will transition to the new Constitution of Cattle Australia – representing the interests of all cattle producers and providing a unified, visible, and influential voice focused on delivering clear leadership and direction for the industry,” he said.
“It is an exciting time. Advocating on hot topics such as biosecurity, trade, and carbon, the new peak body will lead and direct policy development and its implementation, and protect the profitability, competitiveness and future of the cattle industry – uniting levy payers, and engaging with cattle producers and industry stakeholders.
“It will also create business value for cattle producers in areas where they cannot succeed working alone, by developing and guiding research, development, adoption, and marketing investment for the sector.
“Advocating for our industry is critically important and requires proper resourcing and engagement from all beef producers, for the long-term sustainability of our sector and during moments of crisis – such as the recent Foot and Mouth and Lumpy Skin Disease outbreaks in Indonesia.
“We thank those individuals who have worked tirelessly to enable the creation of Cattle Australia, and the dedication of those who have contributed to Cattle Council Australia over the past 43 years.
“To date, our industry has relied on a few passionate people to do the heavy lifting, but now it’s time for all beef producers to get involved.”
