GrainGrowers' members in the Southern Region have elected their five National Policy Group (NPG) representatives, returning two previous members – Dr Amity Dunstan, Telangatuk East, VIC; Martin Honner, Junee, NSW – and electing three new representatives – Jack Langley, Narrandera, NSW; Emelia Sudholz, Riverside, VIC; and Bruce Watson, Forbes, NSW.
GrainGrowers CEO, Shona Gawel has welcomed the elected National Policy Group members who will take up the positions in 2026.
"On behalf of GrainGrowers, I would like to thank all the growers who stood for the National Policy Group for stepping forward for this essential part of our policy development."
The NPG determines GrainGrowers' policy positions and represents growers' views on national issues affecting the grains sector.
It is made up of 15 representatives: five from each of the GrainGrowers regions – the Southern Region (southern NSW, VIC and TAS), the Western Region (SA and WA), and the Northern Region (northern NSW & QLD).
Over the past twelve months the group has contributed to our deliberations around the proposed superannuation changes, the Right to Repair changes and grains research and development.
Ms Gawel said she was pleased to see the range of highly experienced and capable members taking the time to serve this valuable industry function.
"I am very confident that every one of the elected members will represent the Southern Region effectively, contributing actively to the policy discussions at GrainGrowers."
Ms Gawel thanked all those candidates who applied and participated in the election process, noting it was an incredible calibre of individuals.
The next NPG meeting, including the newly elected Southern Region representatives, will be held in early 2026.
Additional information on the newly elected members and for the NPG is available on the GrainGrowers website.
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Additional quotes from NPG members
Emelia Sudholz, Riverside, VIC
“Being elected to the NPG is an opportunity to be part of progress and to advocate for policy on issues that impact how we farm. With our industry facing challenges such as soil conservation, water scarcity, land use and climate change, developing practical, workable policies is a key step in sustaining our global competitiveness. I am looking forward to getting involved and playing a part in this process.”
Bruce Watson, Forbes, NSW
“Representing the Southern region on NPG is an excellent opportunity to use my previous experience to get involved in policy discussions to underpin our sustainability and profitability. In the broader sense, I am looking forward to helping shape policies that can make a difference in how the industry operates, and continuing to improve things like grain supply chains and markets for our grains.”
Jack Langley, Narrandera, NSW
“I am pleased to be able to work collaboratively alongside the other industry representatives on the NPG and be actively involved in policy development that can make a long-term difference. While one of my key interests is farm transition planning, I am passionate about rural and regional Australia and what it can offer for the next generation.”
Images for the NPG are available HERE