The Grain Producers South Australia (GPSA) board has been bolstered by the appointment of experienced agricultural director Julie Bird.
Ms Bird joins the GPSA board in an independent director role, bringing a wealth of experience from her extensive career in diverse sectors of agriculture, complementing the existing expertise within GPSA’s board.
Ms Bird’s journey in agriculture began during her formative years in Renmark, a region known for its rich agricultural heritage.
Her early career path, which included teaching and working on a family horticulture property, naturally progressed to roles with Quality Fruit Marketing and the Almond Board of Australia.
With eight years on the Plant Health Australia board and current leadership roles as Horticulture Innovation Australia chair and Australian Seafood Industries chair , and Cotton Research and Development Corporation director, Ms Bird’s contributions to the agricultural sector are both broad and significant.
Reflecting on her appointment, GPSA chair John Gladigau said he was looking forward to the contribution Ms Bird could make to the South Australian grain industry.
“We are thrilled to have Julie join our board following an extensive search to fill the GPSA independent director role,” he said.
“Her background in agriculture, especially in representing diverse sectors, will be invaluable in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the grain industry.
“Her understanding of building important relationships and focus on ensuring value for growers, align perfectly with GPSA’s values and mission.”
Ms Bird was excited about the opportunity to draw on her past experiences in agriculture and contribute to the South Australian grain industry’s future.
“Much of my career has been spent working with growers and other industry stakeholders,” she said.
“While this has been in other sectors of agriculture, there is a lot of similarity in underlying issues and needs.
“I would hope that I can complement the board’s extensive grain industry experience, with my broader agricultural experience.
“It’s always great to come into a role with fresh eyes and a different perspective.”
