An Eyre Peninsula farmer has been appointed to Grain Producers SA’s (GPSA) newly formed Young Grain Producers Committee, which will play an important role in shaping the future of South Australia’s grain industry policy and advocacy.
Dion Trezona of Streaky Bay has joined the group, which was designed to foster leadership, policy engagement and development opportunities for the next generation of grain producers.
Mr Trezona is a fifth-generation grain producer who operates a mixed farming business near Streaky Bay.
He incorporates cropping and livestock, showcasing a balanced and sustainable approach to farming in a challenging environment.
Mr Trezona is actively involved with Agricultural Innovation & Research Eyre Peninsula and local agricultural bureaus.
He has also hosted several research trials on his property over many years, contributing to the development and adoption of new practices and technologies to benefit the broader farming sector.
Mr Trezona had his first meeting as part of the committee last week and said better communication with farmers was a big part of the formation.
“GPSA are trying to find out what issues younger farmers are finding as they are coming through and their opinion on issues farmers are facing,” he said.
Other committee members include Deanna Paech (chairperson, Murraylands); Andrew Hunt (Mallee); Cameron Longbottom (Mid North); Dili Schoenberg (Mid North); Matthew Cadd (Yorke Peninsula); Matthew Howell (upper South East); Dr Penny Roberts (South East).
GPSA chief executive officer Brad Perry highlighted the importance of having a specific avenue to receive policy and advocacy advice on grain issues related to the younger generation.
“The Young Grain Producers Committee reflects GPSA’s commitment to ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for South Australia’s grain sector. This diverse group of passionate and driven individuals will bring fresh perspectives to the challenges and opportunities facing our industry,” he said.
“It is exciting to see representation from across South Australia, ensuring we capture the breadth of experiences and expertise from grain producers in our key cropping regions.
“This initiative demonstrates GPSA’s long-term investment in building leadership capacity within our industry. We look forward to supporting the committee as it provides important advice on key policy matters and contributes to GPSA’s advocacy on behalf of South Australian grain producers.”
The committee will meet at least three times a year to address issues impacting young growers and identify opportunities to strengthen the youth voice in industry discussions.
The inaugural committee meeting was held on Thursday, December 12.
