AUSVEG CEO welcomes the appointment of Board Members to new horticulture research organisation

AUSVEG CEO Mr Richard Mulcahy has welcomed this afternoon’s announcement by the Federal Agriculture Minister, The Hon. Barnaby Joyce MP, of the composition of the Board that will head up the new research and development body for horticulture.

Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited (HIAL) is the new research, development and marketing body that will support investment of levy and matched government funds in the horticulture industry.

“I welcome Minister Joyce’s announcement of the Board of Directors which signifies a new era in research and development for Australian horticulture,” said AUSVEG CEO, Mr Richard Mulcahy.

“It is great to see such a diverse and well-rounded team of leaders comprising the board at Horticulture Innovation Australia and AUSVEG looks forward to working very closely with the new Directors and the management of the new company, to progress the interests of grower levy payers,” said Mr Mulcahy.

The establishment of HIAL has taken place following an independent review into the performance of Horticulture Australia Limited, the current research and development corporation for the horticulture industry.

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

“AUSVEG welcomes today’s announcement and looks forward to working positively and constructively with Horticulture Innovation Australia to benefit vegetable and potato levy paying growers around the country,” said Mr Mulcahy.

“It is paramount that the interests of Australian vegetable and potato levy payers are met within any new structure, and specifically that the focus of the new organisation ensures the continuity of important research programs and initiatives,” said Mr Mulcahy.

“AUSVEG will continue to provide a strong voice for growers to ensure that the objectives of the vegetable and potato industries are well-represented in relation to future R&D investment,” said Mr Mulcahy.