As another year draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to just thank those who represent your industry by sitting on Potato Growers Association.

We have seen the AGM held and it is great to announce that Brad Ryan has been elected to represent the fresh ware sector and the northern grower region.

The PGA needs the input from young growers and I am positive Brad will be valuable over the term of his election. I hope this will encourage other young growers to become involved in the shaping of the potato industry by stepping into a role with the PGA.

The Perth Royal Show has been and gone and as always WA Potatoes was well represented. Our dedicated team of Morena, Georgia and able assistant Simon did a great job! The foot traffic through the WA Potatoes pavilion was fantastic again. It really takes a great amount of effort to get this up, so thank you Georgia, Morena, and Simon.

Seed for Schools has been one of our greatest success stories by maintaining the gap between the city and rural sector and educating the junior school children on the growing and nutritional benefits of the humble spud. Those schools who have participated have been sending through photo results of potatoes grown in school gardens and it’s a real hit. A shout out to the Ayres family who donate the seed that is distributed out to all the schools, which are many.

As everyone will be aware, the current Agriculture Minister has called time on an extensive career. We look forward to engaging with the newly-appointed minister when announced and hope we can build a good working relationship that can assist us to further develop our strong push into export development.

In closing, a massive shout out to our dedicated team at the coal front who have yet again put an enormous amount of time and effort over the last 12 months. To Simon, Morena and Georgia, thank you!

Wishing everyone a very safe and happy festive period and the very best for 2023.

Contact Vaughan on 0417 092 505 or email marybrook438@gmail.com