VICTORIA’S young farmers have new avenues to have their say with the appointment of a ministerial advisory council and the launching of an online platform www.oursay.org/youngfarmers/bigissues.

The Andrew’s Government’s Young Farmers Ministerial Advisory Council was recently appointed, with members representing most sectors, including sheepmeat and wool.

The Young Farmer Ministerial Advisory Council consists of:

–  Caitlin Scholfield, chair – business manager, Geoffrey Gardiner Dairy Foundation, Geelong

–  Andrew Bulmer, deputy chair – managing director of a horticulture business, Calulu

–  Skye Vermaas – Victorian Young Farmers group representative, Newlyn

–  Will Ryan – Young Agribusiness Professionals group representative, Dumbalk

–  Prue Milgate – farm manager, sheepmeat/wool and mixed grains business, Salisbury West

–  Thomas McGrath – farmer mixed meat and wool/ cropping business, Murtoa

– James Terry – director for an integrated grower, packer and exporter asparagus business, Koo Wee Rup

– Sarah Thompson – engagement and workforce development officer, Murray Dairy, Kialla

– Leila Sweeney-McDougall – farmer and secondary school teacher, Tatyoon

– Maida Anderson – communications officer, Baw Baw Shire, Warragul

– Ashlee Hammond – policy and project officer, United Dairyfarmers of Victoria,  Melbourne

Victorian Farmer’s Federation president Peter Tuohey said the state’s young farmers and young agri-professionals hold the key to agriculture in the future.

“Investing in young farmers and giving them opportunities to grow and learn from each other is critical.

“This is a real positive from the Andrew’s government and will go a long way to ensuring we continue to attract and retain the best of our youth in agriculture,” Mr Tuohey said.

Mr Tuohey also welcomed the launch of the online platform, oursay, to get the conversation started among our young farmers.

“Today’s agricultural youth are more engaged than ever.

“I would encourage young farmers and those passionate about advancing agriculture to get online and have their say about the future of our great industry.”

To join the conversation you can have your say at www.oursay.org/youngfarmers/bigissues

Source: Victorian Farmers Federation.