27 November 2020

AUSVEG, Australia’s peak industry body for the vegetable and potato industries, has announced the appointment of Renee Pye from South Australia as a Grower Director on its Board.

Renee will replace vegetable grower Danny De Ieso, who is stepping down after serving over six years on the AUSVEG Board. Renee is the Marketing Manager for leading potato, carrot and onion packhouse Zerella Fresh, which is one of the largest producers in South Australia.

Renee is involved in a number of key areas of the business, including new product development and marketing, and is an emerging leader in the South Australian industry. She has overseen the development of Zerella Fresh’s Spud Lite range, which has contributed significantly to the company’s recent growth.

AUSVEG Chair Bill Bulmer has welcomed Renee onto the AUSVEG Board, saying the industry was lucky to have a strong, passionate, up-and-coming industry advocate who will provide a unique and informed perspective on South Australian issues advise on AUSVEG’s national policies and agenda.

“South Australia is a critical supplier of vegetables and potatoes for the national horticulture industry, whose growers face significant issues in sourcing labour and dealing with the challenges of a variable climate and extreme weather events. But despite the challenges growers in this part of the country face, the industry is resilient and will continue to produce high-quality fruits and vegetables for local and international markets,” said Mr Bulmer.

“Renee is a committed industry representative who already sits on a number of Boards, including AUSVEG SA, the Murraylands Food Alliance and industry potato marketing consultation committees.”

“Renee regularly works with politicians at the state level and has been the spokesperson for a number of key industry campaigns in attracting labour and securing key infrastructure investments for industry. Renee has already proven she is a committed advocate for the broader industry, and I look forward to seeing what she can bring to the AUSVEG Board.”

“On behalf of the Board and the AUSVEG team, I congratulate Renee on her appointment and look forward to working closely with her to advocate for the South Australian vegetable and potato sectors.”

“I would also like to thank Danny De Ieso for his contributions to the industry during his time on the AUSVEG Board. Danny has been a fierce, deeply passionate advocate for growers and has never wavered in his dedication to those who supply our fresh vegetables and potatoes.”

“The industry has been extremely fortunate to have Danny advocating on its behalf for many years, and his contributions to the AUSVEG Board will be greatly missed by myself and the rest of the Board.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:  Shaun Lindhe, AUSVEG National Manager – Communications

Phone: 03 9882 0277, Mobile: 0405 977 789, Email: shaun.lindhe@ausveg.com.au