New Leadership To Drive Rural Support Forward Agricultural Voices Strengthen QRIDA Board With Historic Appointments

Queensland’s farmers and regional businesses will benefit from strengthened leadership at the state’s rural support agency, with four new appointments to the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) Board – each bringing deep roots in agriculture, regional development and the private sector.

The Queensland Government’s renewed focus on rural resilience and economic growth is reflected in the announcement by Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, who has named a new-look QRIDA Board set to champion the needs of primary producers and rural enterprises across the state.

Among the new appointments is sixth-generation farmer and senior lawyer Caitlin McConnel, who has made history as QRIDA’s first female Chairperson. Joining her on the Board are agricultural machinery industry leader Bruce Vandersee, rural business banking expert Danica Olsen, and agribusiness lawyer Ari McCamley.

Ms McConnel, Mr Vandersee and Ms Olsen will serve three-year terms, while Mr McCamley has been appointed for approximately 16 months to provide continuity in governance.

Minister Last said the new Board brings strong agricultural credentials and practical insight that will be vital in steering QRIDA through challenges such as recovery from recent flooding in Western and North Queensland.

“Strong leadership at QRIDA is vital to support our long-term disaster recovery efforts, particularly after the recent flooding in Western Queensland and in North Queensland,” he said.

“These Board appointments will bring new perspectives and help the organisation explore new opportunities in developing Queensland’s rural and industry sectors."

He highlighted the diverse private sector experience each new Director brings: from Mr Vandersee’s extensive career in supplying farm machinery, to Ms Olsen’s work in business banking tailored to rural clients, and Mr McCamley’s legal expertise supporting the agribusiness sector.

“QRIDA plays a critical role assisting farmers, businesses, and non-profits, particularly through financial support during times of hardship,” Minister Last said. “With this refreshed Board, QRIDA is in a strong position to deliver for rural Queenslanders in the long-term recovery from this year’s natural disasters.”

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Minister for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last, pictured during a past visit with Honey the pig, continues his support for the sector with new leadership at QRIDA. Photo source: Dale Last MP (Facebook)

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