Saleyards Australia president Paul Martin said Gunnedah’s Amy Perfrement will start in the role next month.
Mr Martin said Amy’s varied skillset and life experience would benefit all members and stakeholders.
“Amy’s professional and practical background in agriculture, project management, finance and business operations will bring a valuable holistic management approach to Saleyards Australia,” Mr Martin said.
“As a seventh-generation farmer, she has a lifelong connection to the grazing industry and currently runs a commercial shorthorn cattle breeding operation at Piallaway in north west New South Wales.
“She also has hands-on saleyards experience which gives her practical insights into the day-to-day operations of our membership base,” he said.
“Her career reflects a unique blend of business expertise, leadership and a commitment to both agriculture and rural communities, which gives her a real understanding of the needs of industry stakeholders.”
Mr Martin thanked outgoing interim executive officer Prudence Barwick for her guidance over the past eight months, including overseeing the legal, financial and membership aspects of last year’s merger of two saleyard industry associations – the Australian Livestock Markets Association (ALMA) and the Australian Livestock Saleyards Association (ALSA).
“Prudence has been a powerhouse during a time of big change for the saleyards sector and managed every aspect of merging the two former bodies to create Saleyards Australia,” he said.
“Her hard work and skillset meant we were able to create a new, national body while also strengthening our representative power in a relatively short timeframe.
“On behalf of our board, we thank Prudence for her significant contribution. To ensure a smooth transition, Amy and Prudence will work together during a handover period starting from 4 February,” Mr Martin said.
“Our members can be confident that with a refreshed and energized board and experienced management, Saleyards Australia will continue to bring a strong, clear and effective voice to the table when advocating and delivering for the sector.” S
Saleyards Australia will hold its inaugural conference in Wagga Wagga in July.
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