New WPA director Skye Ward. Image – LInkedIn.

TWO new directors from New South Wales have been elected to the board of peak grower body, WoolProducers Australia.

New South Wales growers Angus Hobson and Skye Ward have been elected to the WPA board, along with re-standing director Simon Riddle from Violet Town in Victoria.

Former directors NSW grower Stacey Lugsdin and Victorian grower Helen Carrigan were unsuccessful in the election results, announced at WPA annual general meeting on 9 November.

New WPA director Angus Hobson.

Office bearer positions for WoolProducers Australia were also determined at the AGM. WPA president Steve Harrison and acting vice president Simon Riddle were elected unopposed.

Mr Harrison thanked all candidates for their nominations and said it was pleasing to have a contested election that included nominations from a range of candidates who all possessed great credentials.

“As president, I am looking forward to working with the new directors and I know that they will bring a lot to the organisation.”

Mr Harrison spoke about the industry’s challenges and the need for collaboration in his president’s report.

Simon Riddle: re-elected.

The challenges faced wool production over the past 12-months had included detrimental government policies, declining commodity prices and seasonal conditions. He said with significant board renewal, WPA will be able to have fresh eyes on how it represented and assisted Australian wool growers.

“2024 is shaping up to be a big year for the wool industry and along with the current directors, Angus, Skye and Simon’s insights will help guide our organisation to deliver the best outcomes for woolgrowers,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge Stacey Lugsdin, who as vice-president over the past 12-months has been a great support to me and WoolProducers.”

“We have also farewelled John Hassell, who has fulfilled his tenure at WoolProducers,” Mr Harrison said.