TasFarmers annual general meeting summary

Ian Sauer has been returned as president of TasFarmers and several new members have joined the board at today’s TasFarmers AGM.

Mr Sauer said the past year had been “rock-solid” for the organisation, as it continued to consolidate its position as the industry’s leading peak body while laying strong foundations for a highly productive future.

“We (TasFarmers) have met our KPIs, and everything is heading in the right direction. Importantly, the organisation is being sought out, listened to, and acted upon,” he said.

"The organisation has had a multitude of successes, from pushing back on the federal biosecurity levy to working at the state level to halt the fire levy, which could have increased levy payments by as much as 1000 per cent.

"Advocacy efforts can be difficult to measure, but here we have tangible results. The impact is clear, had these new taxes not been stopped, they would have hit farmers hard in the hip pocket."

Mr Sauer said the organisation’s communications and engagement with members had been another major highlight, with outreach now broader and more diverse than ever.

“We’re reaching more farmers and industry stakeholders, allowing us to better represent their views. We also continue to engage with the agricultural food supply chain to ensure the best possible outcomes for the sector.”

Vice President Nathan Cox, who chaired the AGM on behalf of Mr Sauer, said TasFarmers had achieved what it needed to.

“We’ve demonstrated to members that the organisation is in a strong position and is doing more than anyone to advance the interests of Tasmanian farmers,” he said.

"I just want to thank all our members, those who helped make up the quorum, those who joined online, and, of course, our board members and staff. Thank you.”

TasFarmers welcomed Felicity Richard to the board and confirmed the re-election of Ian Sauer as President and Nathan Cox as Vice President.

“I’d also like to congratulate our newly elected board members, Richard Hallett, Corey Spencer, and Kate Beven. With this strong leadership team in place, TasFarmers remains laser-focused on making a real difference for farmers.”