This years' AGM highlighted that the with continued unity & strategic direction the plant production sector is well-placed to benefit from the continued growth in demand across the plants based industries.
Mike Simpson, NZ Plant Producers’ Chair said “membership growth and a positive trading environment are flowing through to improved financial stability for NZ Plant Producers. Our industry is finding its place within the primary industries which has given us a voice at critical times, such as during the Covid-19 crisis”.
However, said Mike Simpson, “despite the good progress many of our members a still face significant uncertainty in areas like labour supply, biosecurity responses and new policies in areas like waste, and climate change. The only way that we can adapt to address these challenges is by working collectively as an industry and in partnership with others”.
Mike paid tribute to the Board by highlighting the contribution of the outgoing Board members, Vince Wylaars, Geoff Thorpe and Patrick Murray. He then acknowledged the way the new Board members, Cliff Scott, Steve Burton and Kara Beaumont have stepped into their roles, showing the depth of leadership in our industry.
Members & stakeholders at the AGM welcomed the launch of the new NZ Plant Producers Strategy. Matthew Dolan, Chief Executive of NZ Plant Producers, explained that the new strategy emphasised the key areas where progress is needed, including people, environmental sustainability, plant health & innovation. Achieving unity across the sector is critical to effective advocacy.
In voting, Moore Markham was appointed as the auditor for the 2022 financial year, Nick Hislop was elected to the Board (representing fruit & vines) and Vince Wylaars accepted a nomination for Life Membership.