Board members re-elected at Hort Innovation AGM 2025

Hort Innovation has confirmed the re-election of Julie Bird and Jan Vydra to its Board following the organisation’s 2025 Annual General Meeting.

Voting members re-elected Julie Bird and Jan Vydra to the Hort Innovation Board, and also approved proposed changes to the organisation’s Constitution. The Board subsequently confirmed Julie Bird as Chair and John Said as Deputy Chair.

Chair Julie Bird said the reappointments come at a pivotal time for the organisation and the industry.

“Hort Innovation continues to evolve as a progressive and responsive RDC, delivering impact for levy payers and helping Australian horticulture stay profitable, competitive and resilient,” Ms Bird said.

“This year we’ve accelerated efforts under our 2024–2026 strategy, a roadmap designed to keep Australian horticulture prosperous and sustainable, focusing on the opportunities and challenges that matter most to growers.

“We’re not just responding to today’s challenges; we’re preparing for what’s next, whether that’s adapting to climate variability, navigating trade dynamics, or responding to changing consumer expectations,” Ms Bird said.

“I look forward to continuing in the role of Chair and working alongside Deputy Chair John Said and the rest of the Board to strengthen our ability to deliver meaningful outcomes for industry.”

You can find out more about the current Hort Innovation Board of Directors, and the Executive Team, here. And if you missed attending the AGM, you can watch the recording here.