Meet our board director – Stephen Lowe

Meet our board director – Stephen Lowe

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

I am a banana grower based in the Tully Valley.  

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

I originally graduated as an electrical engineer and worked with the Department of Defence in Canberra before returning home to join the family farming business. I worked alongside my father on the farm for 31 years and became increasingly involved in industry activities over that time. 

My involvement with the Australian Banana Growers’ Council began through participating in ABGC-organised study tours to Central America, where I connected with several board directors and gained a broader understanding of the industry. When a board vacancy became available, I applied for the role. 

I have served on the ABGC board for almost a decade, including six years as Chair, and am currently the Deputy Chair. 

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

A major priority for me is TR4 preparedness and ensuring the industry continues to receive strong recognition and support in this area. Protecting the future sustainability of the Australian banana industry remains critically important. 

04. Why should banana farmers join ABGC? 

It is incredibly important for the industry to have a unified voice. ABGC plays a key role in representing growers with government, particularly around important issues such as imports, biosecurity and industry funding. Being part of the organisation gives growers stronger representation and advocacy on the issues that matter most to the industry.

05. What is a fun fact about you? 

I enjoy taking my boat out and going reef fishing in my spare time.