Mrs Anderson, who farms at “Elwood,” The Gap in southern NSW, has been named AgriFutures Pasture Seeds Program Advisory Panel chairwoman. 

Panel members include Mary-Jane Rogers of Victoria, Joe Cook, South Australia, David Brown, South Australia and Brian Field, Tasmania.

The Australian pasture seeds industry contributes to the productivity of the agricultural sector, notably grass-fed livestock industries including beef, sheep and dairy.

Focused on research, development and extension (RD&E), the AgriFutures the Pasture Seeds Program aims to grow the temperate pasture seeds industry. 

AgriFutures Australia Research & Innovation program manager, Dr Melanie Bradley, welcomed the new panel and said the mix of experience in the group will ensure the industry is well placed to tackle future challenges and opportunities.

She said Mrs Anderson brings a wealth of knowledge to the panel as a Riverina seed grower with extensive industry experience and networks.

Mrs Anderson said she was a big supporter of research, especially in the field. 

She has a background spanning 25 years in growing sub-clover. 

“I’m excited about bringing a commercial perspective to the industry research and innovation discussions,” Mrs Anderson said. 

The Australian pasture seeds industry is an established, mature rural industry with a levy in place to support RD&E. AgriFutures Pasture Seeds Advisory Panel members are appointed on three year terms and the panel will meet on average three to four times per year to guide research priorities and levy investment. The new advisory panel will meet for the first time on June, 5, 2018 in Adelaide. 

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