WA’s Gorter re-elected as MLA board director

WA’s Erin Gorter has secured a second term as a director on the nation’s peak livestock research and marketing body’s board.

Ms Gorter was re-elected as a Meat and Livestock Australia board director at today’s annual general meeting in Tamworth alongside fellow incumbent Rob Fitzpatrick.

John Lloyd, who farms near Orange in New South Wales, was also appointed to the board while Alan Beckett was installed as chairman, following outgoing chairwoman Michele Allan’s retirement.

Speaking at the AGM, Dr Allan said it had been a difficult year for Australia’s farmers.

“With few producers escaping the devastating effects of mother nature — drought, bushfires and devastating floods in Queensland — it has been another challenging year for our industry,” she said.

“Despite the challenges, demand for Australian beef and sheepmeat has remained extremely strong, particularly in key international markets.

“(It is) a result of a favourable global trade environment and excellent reputation of Australian red meat.”

Last month, MLA confirmed Ms Gorter had applied for re-election after being installed in the board position four years ago.

Ms Gorter is a director at WA-based group AgVivo, providing business and industry management advice.

She was also a finalist at the 2010 WA Rural Women’s Award, claiming runner-up honours.