18 February 2022

AUSVEG, Australia’s peak industry body for the vegetable and potato industries, has welcomed the appointment of Brett Fifield as Chief Executive Officer at Hort Innovation.

AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote said that the role of Hort Innovation Chief Executive Officer is important for the Australian horticulture industry given the critical work that the research and development corporation undertakes for growers.

“I welcome the appointment of Brett Fifield as Hort Innovation’s new Chief Executive Officer and look forward to further developing the productive relationship AUSVEG has established with Hort Innovation, with the common goal of ensuring investment in industry research helps growers improve their productivity and competitiveness,” said Mr Coote.

“Brett Fifield’s appointment will be significant for Hort Innovation as the organisation’s investment of grower levies and government funds in research, development and extension will help the industry to contribute meaningfully to agriculture’s goal of reaching $100 billion in value by 2030, with horticulture a key sector in achieving this.

“Fruit and vegetable growers around Australia are facing significant pressures, from pests and diseases that damage crops, to workforce issues and weather events that can wipe out a season’s harvest at any given moment, and increasing costs and supply disruptions for critical farm inputs such as fertilisers and farm machinery.

“Growers have invested heavily in research, development and extension programs that aim to improve growing practices, capitalise on new market opportunities, and empower growers to make informed business decisions with new technologies and industry data. It is important that a strong and effective research and development corporation is directing grower levies towards the most effective and productive investments to support industry growth.

“AUSVEG and Hort Innovation have a constructive relationship, which is important for growers as AUSVEG works with Hort Innovation to ensure grower levies are invested in meaningful research and development to help grow the productivity and value of the industry.

“I thank outgoing Hort Innovation CEO Matt Brand for his contribution to the industry and wish him well with his future endeavours. I congratulate Mr Fifield on his appointment and look forward to continuing the constructive relationship with the Hort Innovation Board and Executive Team.”

MEDIA CONTACT:  Shaun Lindhe, AUSVEG National Manager – Communications

Mobile: 0405 977 789, Email: shaun.lindhe@ausveg.com.au