Last week the Queensland Dairyfarmers’ Organisation (QDO) saw a change in its leadership team with the election of Sunshine Coast Hinterland farmer Matthew Trace as vice-president, joining me as our re-elected president. The elections took place at the first State Council meeting of 2018 which included a new smaller five-person Board that was implemented after an extensive membership restructure.
On behalf of QDO’s members, I welcome Matthew Trace to the important position of vice-president. Matt brings a wealth of industry knowledge and passion to the role of QDO State Councillor, representing dairy farmers in Moreton and Gympie regions.
Matt was first elected to the QDO board in 2015. He has been an active State Councillor throughout his first term and is the youngest QDO vice-president in many decades.
This change in leadership has and will continue to necessitate much-needed membership-driven change. With fresh faces on a number of the industry’s committees, we can expect new and innovative ideas, programs and activities to come to fruition.
On behalf of our membership and industry, I want to thank outgoing vice-president Ross McInnes for his service to date to furthering dairy in Queensland. While Ross will remain a valuable QDO State Councillor, representing Scenic Rim and Lockyer Valley farmers, it is important to recognise his incredible contribution as our former vice-president. The eight-and-a-half years since 2009 have been some of the most turbulent and difficult in the industry’s history and we are in a better place because of Ross’ contribution and leadership.
The new Board will strive to continue delivering effective industry advocacy and services for our members that all farmers deserve and expect. The Board has a clear objective to increase skills and industry awareness among both our district councillors and any younger members who have a desire to represent the dairy industry on the State Council in the future.
