New SGCAC chairman Michael Craig

HARROW wool producer Michael Craig has been appointed for his first term as chairman of Victoria’s Sheep and Goat Compensation Advisory Committee.

Victorian Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford today confirmed the membership of the state’s two livestock industry advisory committees.

The new Sheep and Goat Compensation Advisory Committee (SGCAC) and the Cattle Compensation Advisory Committee (CCAC) have been appointed until June 30 2017.

Ms Pulford said the Andrews Labor Government is “pleased to be able to rely on highly credentialed advice to help guide our support for livestock industries across Victoria.”

Mr Craig, a Victorian Farmers Federation nominee, had served as a SGCAC member for the past two years and replaces Geoff Fisken as chairman.

Fellow VFF nominee, north-central producer Christopher Wallace-Smith will continue as chairman of the Cattle Compensation Advisory Committee.

New SGCAC members include Gippsland livestock producer Faye Tuchtan, and Angelique Raspin from the Australian Meat Industry Council. Ms Raspin will also serve on the CCAC. VFF nominees Margaret Piccoli and Kate Joseph will continue as SGCAC members.

Also joining the CCAC are VFF nominee Ian Feldtmann, Australian Livestock Property Agents Association nominee Elizabeth Summerville and Cassandra Meagher from the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources.

The SGCAC and CCAC advise government on the allocation of funding to programs and projects that benefit their livestock industries, using revenue generated through levies on cattle, sheep and goats sold throughout Victoria. They are also responsible for advising government on the amount of compensation payable to industry in the event of livestock disease, should that be necessary.

Ms Pulford said the meat, dairy and animal fibre industries are vital to the state’s economy and responsible for over 50 percent of Victoria’s exports.

“Trade data published just this month for example showed Victoria exported meat products valued at $2.9 billion last year, a 12 month increase of $61 million.”

Source: Department of Premier and Cabinet, Victoria.