01. What is your role within the industry (e.g. grower, COO, banana category manager)?  

I am a banana grower based in Taylors Arm, New South Wales, and part of a second-generation family farming business. There will be no third generation though.

02. What is your background and how did you come to join the ABGC board? 

I have been involved in farming for 45 years, with a strong focus on banana production, farming in NSW is very hands-on and manual due to the steep terrain, which presents its own unique challenges. 

I joined the ABGC in 2008 and have served as a director ever since. I have also been involved with Hort Innovation (HIA) as a board director for R&D, allowing me to contribute to broader industry outcomes. 

03. What key priorities are you focused on as a director? 

A key focus for me has always been governance and ensuring strong representation for New South Wales growers at the highest level. During my time on the board, I was involved in reviewing and redrafting governance rules alongside the former CEO Jim Pekin, and since then I have remained committed to strengthening the organisation through ongoing constitutional and governance improvements. 

My priority is to ensure growers have a strong, effective voice and that ABGC continues to represent the interests of all banana growers.

04. Why should banana farmers join ABGC? 

ABGC gives banana growers a strong, unified voice at both state and federal levels. This is particularly important for smaller growing regions like New South Wales, where limited grower numbers can make representation more challenging. Collective advocacy ensures growers are heard on key issues such as biosecurity, industry policy and regional representation. 

ABGC also delivers value through industry workshops, technical information and practical resources that help growers stay informed and up to date. 

05. What is a fun fact about you? 

I have seven children, and my family has since grown to include 15 grandchildren, which I am incredibly proud of. 

Outside of farming, I have also served on an aged care board for around 10 years. This became a passion of mine after my father spent time in an aged care facility, and I wanted to help ensure older Australians receive the quality of care and support they deserve.