Announcement precedes the launch of new Summerfruit Masterplan due in April 2025
The Summerfruit Australia Board has commenced the search for a new chief executive as part of a strategy to help the summerfruit industry become more competitive and resilient.
On behalf of the industry, the board extended its heartfelt thanks to Trevor Ranford for his dedication and service as chief executive for the past seven years. Ranford departed at the end of December 2024. Board chair Dean Morpeth commented: “We would like to acknowledge and thank Trevor for his exceptional contribution to Summerfruit Australia.”
The last year has seen Summerfruit Australia grow significantly, with new project funding secured, and additional resources for the delivery of increased value for our members.
“With new projects and staff, we believe this is the right time to welcome a new leader to help steer our organisation into the future,” Morpeth added.
Along with the recently appointed industry development manager, Jess Byrne and existing trade development manager, Charlotte Brunt, Summerfruit Australia also plans to appoint a communications manager and biosecurity officer in 2025.
The board is also working towards changes to increase value for paying members, such as an alignment with a new accounting partner based in Echuca, an overhaul of the industry website and other platforms, and the elevation of the body’s sponsorship framework.
“This is an exciting time for summerfruit,” said Morpeth. “We have a full, active board with representation from most of our key growing states. It’s a truly positive period for our industry, as we work towards delivering our goals.”
The announcement precedes the launch the new Summerfruit Masterplan, which will be presented to growers at an end-of-season event, circa April 2025.
