Mrs Hull AO received the honour for distinguished service to rural and regional communities through health, skills development, and agricultural organisations. It follows Mrs Hull’s appointment as a member of the Order of Australia in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honour list.
On behalf of the AgriFutures Australia Board and staff, John Harvey paid tribute to Mrs Hull AO, who he described as a truly extraordinary person and exceptional leader.
“Kay has reinvigorated Australian agriculture through her dedication to the people and rural industries we serve; her determination to attract young people into agriculture; and her unwavering belief in the need to improve and innovate,” said Mr Harvey.
“Kay has been leading the way in everything she does by a commitment to excellence, a determination to get the job done and a shared vision for Australian agriculture which is bold, collaborative and inspirational.”
Kay Hull AO was first appointed to the AgriFutures Australia Board in 2016 and is currently serving a second term as Board Chair.
“In addition, under Kay’s leadership, AgriFutures Australia has delivered two world class international events, evokeAG. 2019 and evokeAG. 2020, shining a spotlight on the great research and innovation being done in Australia by elevating Australian agrifood to the world stage,” said Mr Harvey.
“Under her leadership growAG. has been developed in partnership with the other Research Development Corporations, (RDCs) providing direct and easy access to Australia’s agricultural innovation system, encouraging collaboration, attracting investment, and finding commercial partners from within Australia and around the world.”
Mr Harvey thanked Mrs Hull for her ongoing support and leadership.
“Kay has gone above and beyond what might be normally expected of a Chair. She cares for staff and for our farmers especially during very difficult recent times with drought, bushfires, floods and COVID-19,” said Mr Harvey.
“She has anticipated their needs and has reached out to ensure that AgriFutures Australia is there to share the journey with them.”
“Kay has been leading the way in Australian agriculture ever since,” said Mr Harvey.
