The head of Apple and Pear Australia Ltd (APAL), Darral Ashton, has announced he will step down from his role as chairman at the organisation’s annual general meeting in August of this year.
Mr Ashton has been at the helm of the body since its transition from an association to a limited company in 2002.
Former managing director of the Australian Wheat Board, John Lawrenson has been named as his replacement.
Mr Ashton told ABC Rural it was a great step for the organisation to appoint a non-grower as chairman.
“I have absolutely no qualms about someone who is not an actual growers taking over the helm,” he said.
“I think it is just a sign that industry is developing and maturing and realising that it needs the best people for the job.”
