The Board of the Macalister Demonstration Farm is made up of six dairy industry representatives plus the Chairman. Whilst there is no requirement for members to be farmers there is a preference for a strong farmer representation. Board members serve a two year term with half of them either retiring or up for re-election each year to ensure continuity.
Rachael Finch
Rachael joined the board in 2015. Rachael and her husband, Hayden, are from dairy farming families in New Zealand and moved to Australia about 7 A? years ago. They own two farms – a 400 cow farm at Denison and a 450 cow farm at Fulham. Rachael has a strong interest in HR and, along with qualifications in Agriculture and Agribusiness Management, has attained a Diploma in HR (Dairy).
Colin Wright
Colin joined the MDF Board in October 2010 for his third stint as a Director. He was first appointed in 1996, then served again from 1997 to 2000. Colin is an accountant with Phillipsons in Sale and has had a long interest in Limousin cattle breeding.
Brad White – Deputy Chairman
Brad joined the MDF Board in October 2010 and became Deputy Chairman in October 2011. Brad is a dairy farmer on the family farm at Riverslea.
Mike O’Brien
Mike joined the MDF Board in October 2014. Mike and his wife Sarah are sharefarmers at Denison.
Mark Humphris
Mark joined the MDF Board in October 2008, serving as Chairman from 2010 to 2015. Mark is a veterinary consultant and has been leading DA’s Countdown 2020 Project since 2013.
Neil Baker – Chairman
Neil was appointed to the MDF Board in October 2013, and became Chairman in 2015. Neil is trained in Agricultural Science and lived in the MID for more than 30 years before retiring to Lakes Entrance in 2012. Neil is no newcomer to the MDF having been employed as the MDF’s Cooperative Manager prior to his retirement.
Bill Lack
Bill joined the MDF Board in October 2008. Bill is a trainer of farm apprentices and operates a Hereford cattle stud. He has had a long interest in cattle breeding.