The Grain Sustainability Framework (GSF) has announced appointments to the Steering Group, drawing together a wide range of experienced industry experts to commence work on the initiative.
Chaired by agriculture leader Catherine Marriott OAM, the GSF Steering Group consists of the following people:
- Lachlan Evans - Grains Australia, Trade and Market Access Manager
- Dr Mark Farrell – CSIRO, Principal Research Scientist
- Graham Page - Terragen Holdings, Manager of Plant Bio-stimulants ANZ
- Steph Schmidt – Grower and psychologist
- Ruth Sommerville – Grower and consultant agro-ecologist
- Ash Wiese – Grower and owner of the “Three Farmers” quinoa brand
- Toby Wright - CBH, Group Head of Strategy and Sustainability.
Appointments to the skills-based group were made based on experience in the grain value chain, proficiency in the relevant issues facing the sector and the ability to collaborate.
As work begins to design the GSF, the next phase of work will involve consultation with key stakeholders, including grower groups across Australia, to inform and refine the framework. The first GSF Annual Report will be released in early 2026.
GSF Steering Group Chair Catherine Marriott OAM welcomed steering group members and said they were looking forward to getting on with the job.
“I’m thrilled with the appointments. The depth of experience across the steering group is remarkable.”
“I know the whole steering group is eager to begin working on the Grain Sustainability Framework.”
Ms Marriott explained the purpose of the steering group was to continuously strengthen the design, development, operation, and value of the GSF.
The group is responsible for defining what sustainable grain production means in the Australian context, developing the vision and operating principles of the GSF and structuring the framework to reflect priority topics. It will also consult with key industry stakeholders, play a central role in delivering the GSF Annual Report and administer the GSF in line with the scope and principles.
The group is linked to the GSF Council, which comprises representatives of GrainGrowers and Grain Producers Australia, with GRDC as an observer. The Council is ultimately responsible for the GSF and approves work undertaken to support the framework.
GSF Council Chair Tess Herbert said a strong steering group would provide a strong foundation for the development of the framework.
“A highly qualified steering group is foundational to the success of any sustainability framework. The grains industry is fortunate to have an exceptionally skilled steering group driving the Grain Sustainability Framework,” Ms Herbert said.
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