Talking Grain (Chairman's Update)

Grains Council Chairman Murray Jones

Grains Council of Australia has a long and proud history of representing grain producers that now spans over 70 years. Times have changed - mechanisation, new crops and now new ways of marketing. Nothing remains constant, even climate variation is now high on the radar demanding our attention.

What is constant, however, is the need for the grain community to demonstrate unity of purpose and to continue to provide democratic advice on behalf of growers that reflects clear and unbiased opinion on a range of important industry decisions. While some decisions are not always popular, we are obliged to act in the best interest of grain producers to maintain viability and sustainable farming for future generations.

As our industry evolves, Grains Council is evolving to ensure that we represent grain growers across Australia. While the State Farming Organisations remain integral members of Grains Council, we are also inviting other grower groups around Australia to become members and to help us develop strong and robust policy on national issues.

Our current focus at Grains Council is on five important areas that require a united national approach: Bioscurity & Quarantine, Trade, Climate Change, Research & Development, National Transport Infrastructure.

Other equally important issues are to ensure that producers are adequately represented on grains classification and marketing, storage and handling, emergency response protocols, food safety, international codex and residue standards. Legislation requires that Grains Council consults and recommends on research and development, plant health, and the national residue survey.

With the release of the Federal Government’s CPR Green Paper and the eminent introduction of the Emissions Trading Scheme, there has never been a more critical time for growers to unite and have a strong voice at a national level.

Finally, Grains Council is A-Political, democratic and representative of the industry majority view. We will represent growers and industry without fear or favour and at all times provide advice to decision makers in the best interests of our members.

Murray Jones