MSF Chair – since 2023

Steve Burt is a successful entrepreneur and business leader in agribusiness. As Managing Director of Turfbreed Pty Ltd, Steve has been responsible for driving the company’s growth and success.

With his experience in managing multiple businesses including grain trading company PentAG Nidera Pty Ltd, and his position as a Non-executive Director of AMPS Agribusiness, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role.

SA Farmer Director – since 2021

Chad is a grain and hay producer from Pinnaroo, farming with his father and brother and families. He studied a Bachelor of Ag Science at Adelaide Uni and did a short stint as a graduate agro with Landmark before returning home to the family farm.

Chad finds farming in the Mallee challenging and rewarding and is also involved with the local and wider ag community where he can meet like minded people who also share a passion for agriculture.

Chad’s long term goals are to be an efficient and productive producer while maintaining a sustainable system which can hopefully offer the next generation the same opportunities he has been given.

SA Farmer Director – since 2014

VIC Farmer Director – since 2025

James joins the MSF Board running a third-generation mixed farming enterprise, based in Merrinee, Northwest Victoria. James’ family has farmed in the Merrinee region for decades, with an open approach to new innovations while not forgetting the past, in the pursuit of advancing cropping and livestock management that’s unique to the conditions of Northern Mallee.

With deep roots in the local community and a passion for sustainable agriculture, James is committed to driving innovation in the dryland Millewa region and ensuring that farmers remain at the heart of everything that MSF does.

VIC Farmer Director – since 2025

Richard is a fourth-generation broadacre farmer from Cowangie, working alongside his parents on the family property. Growing up in the Mallee has given him a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities of dryland farming. Joining the board of MSF, Richard plays an active role in strategic discussions and supports research, development, and extension initiatives, drawing on his expertise in geospatial and mapping technologies and his strong interest in advancing digital agriculture for sustainable farming systems.

He has also worked with Agriculture Victoria on a project focused on building drought resilience in vulnerable soils. Passionate about the future of agriculture, Richard is committed to supporting the next generation of growers and contributing to his local community.

Specialist Director – since 2024

Sean brings a wealth of expertise in soil chemistry and agronomy to our board. His distinguished career spans roles in academia and industry, including his work as Director of Agronomy Solutions, where he has led research on optimizing soil and plant nutrition.

Sean’s involvement in projects like precision agriculture and drought resilience highlights his dedication to innovative farming practices. His passion for advancing sustainable agriculture aligns perfectly with MSF’s mission, and he is eager to support farmers in the Mallee region with cutting-edge research and practical solutions for long-term success.

Specialist Director – since 2024

Angela brings invaluable experience to our board. Her impressive background includes roles at Ambulance Victoria and the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, showcasing her expertise in operational strategy, market access, and policy implementation. Angela’s passion for sustainable farming and her commitment to supporting rural communities make her a perfect fit for MSF. She is eager to leverage her knowledge to empower farmers in the tristate region of Victoria, NSW, and SA, aiding them with research opportunities and informed decision-making for the future of their farms.

Specialist Director – since 2025

Jenny Garonne brings over thirty years of leadership experience in business, economic and community development to Mallee Sustainable Farming (MSF).

A proven leader in the Mallee area, Jenny is keen to be part of the Board and work with the MSF’s skilled team to increase the understanding of the needs of low rainfall Mallee farmers, extending the profile of the organisation and collaboration with other service providers to enhance sustainability and innovation in the tristate region.

Located in Mildura, Jenny has a strong agricultural foundation with family ties back to the turn of the century and is committed to supporting farmers and their communities to be resilient not only for the coming years, but well into the future. Jenny holds formal qualifications in accounting, an Executive Masters in Public Administration, and is a graduate and member of the AICD. She brings substantial expertise in finance and management, offering valuable contributions to the Board and to MSF’s strategic direction.