The WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC) has announced the appointment of Terry Hill as the inaugural Independent Chair of WAARC’s Steering Committee.
Hill is an independent appointment among six other exceptional leaders on the Steering Committee, each representing one of WAARC’s member organisations: Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Australia’s national science agency CSIRO, Grower Group Alliance, Curtin University, Murdoch University, and The University of Western Australia.
Throughout his diverse and inspiring career, Terry has been passionate about contributing to the success of regional Western Australia and our state’s vital primary industries.
Most recently, Hill was appointed Board Director of the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC) and he is also the current Chair and former Chief Executive Officer of Pilbara Development Commission.
In 2022, he was Acting Director General of DPIRD and previously held several senior positions within the department.
His outstanding contributions were honoured in June last year, when he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AO) in the King’s Birthday Honours List for his commitment to primary industry, public administration and the agricultural sector.
WAARC director Kelly Pearce said the team was thrilled and privileged to have a leader of Terry’s calibre heading up the Steering Committee.
“Terry will bring invaluable leadership and expertise to the role to guide WAARC forward, raise our profile, and further establish WAARC as a collaborative hub set up to tackle WA’s most pressing agricultural challenges through impactful, industry-led research,” said Dr Pearce.
“His skills in strategic partnerships, business development, strategic planning, and communication among other talents, will be such an asset to WAARC as we look ahead to 2025.
“He has hit the ground running having already met with the WAARC Executive team, Program Leads and Steering Committee to share his valuable insights and strategic vision.”
Hill has held many executive roles within the WA Government and at a national level including Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation Deputy Chair and Director, and foundation Director of Horticulture Australia.
He has also worked internationally leading a significant aid project in Indonesia with the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, leading industry trade missions to Asia, and managing the commercialisation of intellectual property for Pink Lady and Sundowner apple varieties.
During his time as DPIRD Acting Director General, Terry delivered initiatives to lift the profile and importance of agricultural research and development including playing a key role in the formation of WAARC.
“The opportunity to work closely with industry, community and businesses to support their success has always been a strong focus throughout my career,” said Hill.
“In recent years, this has included developing partnerships with industry organisations, identifying and capturing opportunities for innovation, and working to identify future options for industry growth and resilience.
“I’m excited to leverage my strong industry relationships, both within WA and nationally, to support the growth and ongoing success of WAARC.”