AS WE approach the end of 2024, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association would like to thank our members, partners and wider region for their ongoing support.
The past 12 months have witnessed big changes and even bigger achievements within BGGA, and we look forward to continuing to support the industry with new initiatives in 2025.
During 2024, BGGA has seen a significant staff turnover, beginning with our CEO Ry Collins, who was elected as Mayor for the Whitsundays.
Our industry is fortunate to have a local leader with intimate knowledge of the challenges and opportunities we face, and we wish Ry ongoing success in the role.
In recent weeks, we have welcomed Richelle Kelly to the team as Regional Development Officer, bringing a wealth of experience in agriculture.
We conclude 2024 with a strong, passionate and dedicated team, ready to dive into the new year.
Over the past 12 months, BGGA has focused on a number of projects geared to support agribusinesses in the region, committed to ongoing advocacy efforts, and worked behind the scenes to support state biosecurity measures that protect our growers.
We’ve travelled across the country to promote the region’s produce and bring back a wealth of knowledge to assist further growth in the industry.
These achievements were celebrated with our staff, committee, members and partners at our recent AGM and end of year function.
It was a great opportunity to catch up in person and to report that BGGA continues to grow as an organisation and maintain a strong financial position.
In 2025, BGGA will be focused on several new initiatives.
We begin the year diving into the Bowen Food Futures Precinct project, funded through the Regional Economic Futures Fund.
This exciting mission will see the development of a pilot processing plant to convert reject produce into value added products.
We are also embarking on a new initiative to help growers connect with working holidaymakers in the region, offering instant workforce solutions.
We will also continue to roll out our current programs, all designed to support our industry and enhance the communities in which we live.
PHOTO
Back row (from left): Cr Michelle Wright, BGGA administration officer Kerry Meier, BGGA regional development officer Richelle Kelly, BGGA president Carl Walker, BGGA management committee member Robert Lee, Mayor Ry Collins, BGGA MC member Chris Pirrone; Front: BGGA CEO Jenn Honnery, BGGA treasurer Jessica Volker, BGGA vice president Kalya Castorina.
