Today the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) announced the appointment of Andrew Leahy as the new VFF Water Council Chair replacing Richard Anderson.
VFF Policy Council Chair and President Emma Germano congratulated Andrew and thanked Richard for his tireless efforts in the water debate.
“The Water Council looks after all water issues, whether that’s groundwater policy, pricing policy or Basin Plan matters. Governments listen to what we have to say on water policy and that’s why it’s important we have somebody in the Chair role who is experienced and connected with their community, we believe Andrew meets this brief.”
“We have witnessed significant change in water policy over Richard’s 15 years as Chair and over 19 years on the Water Council. Richard has lobbied in the interests of irrigators and stock and domestic water users with successive governments, particularly through the Basin Plan negotiations and implementation,” said Ms Germano.
Andrew has an experienced background in farming and currently milks over 600 cows on his dairy farm as well as managing his own contracting business at Murrabit in Northern Victoria.
Andrew said he looked forward to taking on the role as Chair.
“Water is a big issue for our members and I am committed to continuing the fight for fair outcomes for farmers”.
Richard Anderson said it had been an honour to serve in the role of Water Council Chair.
“In my time as Chair the VFF has been at the forefront of the water policy debate and I have every confidence Andrew will ensure this continues.”