July 21, 2023
Four new faces have been appointed to the Northern Panel of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).
The GRDC is responsible for investing levy payments by grain growers into research, development and extension services.
The Northern Panel, which has been appointed for two years, works on behalf of Queensland and NSW growers.
The new appointments will take effect on September 1.
Appointed for the first time are: Belinda Chase, an agronomist from Central Queensland; agronomist and grain grower Sarah Ball from NSW; agronomist Jo Weier from Mungindi on the Queensland/NSW border; and grain grower Murray Scholz from southern NSW.
The five returning members are: West Wyalong grower and Deputy Chair Roger Bolte; Parkes grower Bruce Watson; Riverina grower Roy Hamilton; NSW researcher Georgina Pengilley; and Queensland agronomy engineer Fernanda Dreccer.
Chinchilla grain grower Arthur Gearon will continue in his role as Chair.
GRDC Chair John Woods said the Regional Panel system played a critical role in identifying and prioritising local, regional and national grains industry issues.
One of the first commitments of the new Northern Panel will be the annual GRDC spring tour.
This involves travelling to meet regional growers, advisers and researchers to understand the opportunities and constraints facing different areas.
