THE National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH) has announced the appointment of two distinguished Patrons - the Honourable Jaala Pulford and the Honourable Hugh Delahunty - who demonstrate a shared commitment to farmers and rural communities and bring a wealth of expertise and passion to advance the mission of the NCFH.
Ms Pulford represented Western Victoria as a Member of the Victorian Parliament from 2006 to 2022. During this time, she left an indelible legacy - including serving four years as Deputy Leader of the Labor Government, making history as the first female Agriculture Minister and being an avid public advocate for the NCFH. Ms Pulford’s dedication extends well beyond her political career - contributing a wealth of experience and expertise to a range of university, industry and health-related roles in recent years.
“I’m delighted to reconnect with the National Centre for Farmer Health and to support its important work in this new way. Being asked to serve as a Patron, alongside Hugh Delahunty, is a great honour,” Ms Pulford said.
Mr Delahunty is a dynamic personality with a rich history in sport, politics and a passion for rural communities. His career took him from farming on his family property at Murtoa to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs after playing with Essendon in the 1970s. Mr Delahunty has extensive experience in Local Government and was a member of the Victorian Parliament for over 15 years, serving as Minister for Sport and Recreation and Minister for Veterans Affairs along with nine years as a board member of VicHealth.
“I am very happy to be a Patron and promote the activities of the NCFH to support a healthy and active farming community for the agricultural industry, which has a big influence on the economic and employment fortunes of our rural and regional communities,” Mr Delahunty said.
The appointment of these distinguished Patrons marks the start of a new era for the NCFH and will be instrumental in supporting the success of the Centre’s new Strategic Plan. With a vision of ‘Shaping tomorrow’s healthiest farming communities worldwide’, the NCFH are seeking to grow their sustainability, capacity and reputation for being at the forefront of improving the health, wellbeing, and safety of farming communities.
NCFH director, Dr Alison Kennedy, expressed her enthusiasm for the new appointments.
“We are thrilled to welcome Hugh and Jaala to the National Centre for Farmer Health. Their unwavering dedication to the welfare of farmers and farming families aligns perfectly with our mission,” she said.
“Their wealth of knowledge and experience will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges and opportunities for fostering transformative action on farms. Both Jaala and Hugh have a proven track record advocating for the needs of farmers and farming communities, making them ideal advocates for the NCFH.”
