Mallee Sustainable Farming (MSF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Richard McKee and James O’Day as the new Victorian farmer directors. Richard and James represent three and four generations of farming history and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the MSF Board. Their deep understanding of farming in some of the lowest rainfall regions in Australia will be invaluable as MSF continues its mission to build innovative and resilient farms.

Steve Burt, Chair of MSF, highlighted the strengths that Richard and James bring to the organisation. He stated, “Both Richard and James will be assets to the Board through their understanding and connections in their respective farming communities. Both are advocates for increasing knowledge through research for dryland farming advancement and are hardworking volunteers in the respective communities.” Richard is based in the lower parts of the Victorian Mallee region at Cowangie, while James’s farm is located at Merrinee in the Millewa region.

Steve Burt further expressed his confidence in their contributions, saying, “We are confident that their insights will play a significant role in steering our organisation towards continued success to ensure Mallee farming systems continue to advance in sustainability, thrive through resilience, and remain productive and ready for the future.”

Richard McKee shared his perspective on joining the Board, noting, “The position as Farmer Director at MSF is an opportunity to provide input into research for his region and support farmers to gain insight into improved farm practices. He is drawn to the role given the importance MSF plays in supporting the farmers and the communities he is part of, to continue to be sustainable in the long term.”

James O’Day echoed Richard’s sentiments and added, “He is excited to be involved with MSF that has recently completed the strategic plan for the next ten years and are committed to leadership and innovation in dryland farming. Importantly the farmers remain at the heart of everything that MSF does.”

Richard McKee

James O’Day