NOVEMBER 30, 2009
Dick Thompson has seen the power of communities working together to create new businesses and lift economies and for that reason he was keen to get on board with Southern Agventure.
The newly appointed chairman of Southern Agventure, Mr Thompson, an irrigation farmer from Griffith, NSW, said businesses developed by growers to market and value add to produce from the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, particularly in the rice industry, provide good role models for Southern Agventure enterprises.
"Since the single desk was disbanded there has been a gap in wheat marketing which needs to be filled and I think Southern Agventure's first partnership, Southern Ag Grains, is a great step towards this," he said.
"We have the financial backing in place for Southern Ag Grains, the right people in place with directors and staff of quality, so growers and investors can rest assured it will be run responsibly."
Mr Thompson recently retired as chairman of Murrumbidgee Irrigation Limited. He also chaired the former state owned corporation and, since 1989, was a member of the former advisory committee.
Currently Mr Thompson is a member of the Murray-Darling Basin Community Committee, Murrumbidgee Catchment Management Authority and the NSW State Water Customer Service Committee.
"I've seen what can be achieved when you bring together people who understand their communities, have the right skills and are committed to building good businesses. The benefits which then flow to local communities are great."
Joining Mr Thompson on the board are fellow directors - Lockhart grain and sheep producer Andrew Bouffler, Lockhart grain producer Brent Alexander, Wagga based accountant David Hodge, The Rock grain and sheep producer Richard Carn, Coolamon based solicitor Bill Thompson and Holbrook livestock and grain producer and former commodity trader Nick Taylor.
"I urge people to invest in Southern Agventure and consider it an investment in their community," Mr Thompson added.
For more information contact Brent Alexander on T 0427 206215 E enquiries@southernagventure.com.au or visit www.southernagventure.com.au