Long-serving Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) director Matt Macfarlane has been appointed chair of the AEGIC board.

Mr Macfarlane, who has been on the AEGIC board since its inception in 2012, takes over the role from retiring chair Ron Storey.

Mr Macfarlane is an experienced chair in the technology, agriculture and not-for-profit sectors, and has been an active investor in early stage tech startup companies for more than 20 years.

AEGIC director Matt Macfarlane has been appointed chair of the AEGIC board. Photo: AEGIC

New director Terry Hill joins current directors Karlie Mucjanko, Stuart Richardson and Mr Macfarlane.

Mr Macfarlane said he was honoured to take the reins from Mr Storey, who has served on the AEGIC board for eight years, including four years as chair.

“Ron is an unshakeable advocate for AEGIC’s purpose of increasing value in the Australian grains industry and he leaves the organisation in an excellent position,” he said.

“I am excited to lead the AEGIC board and look forward to continuing to work closely with the team led by executive general manager Courtney Draper, AEGIC’s members and the Australian grains industry.”

AEGIC’s newest director, Mr Hill, brings extensive government experience to the board and a commitment to regional Australia and Australian agriculture.

Mr Hill is the chair and former CEO of the Pilbara Development Commission and has held senior positions at the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), including leading the department as director-general.

AEGIC board

The AEGIC board comprises:

• Matt Macfarlane (independent director and chair);
• Stuart Richardson (Grains Australia-nominated director);
• Terry Hill AM (DPIRD-nominated director); and
• Karlie Mucjanko (independent director).

More information: Keir Tunbridge, keir.tunbridge@aegic.org.au

AEGIC is an initiative of the Western Australian Government and Grains Australia. GRDC provides investment to Grains Australia, which in turn  invests in AEGIC.