THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has announced the outcome of the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) Wannon Region 10 election, with Bruce Knowles returning to Policy Council.

VFF delegate and acting returning officer, Robert Taylor, congratulated Mr Knowles who will be the UDV representative at the UDV Policy Council for the next two years.

“I would like to congratulate Bruce for continuing to represent farmers’ interests and helping to enhance the future for local dairy farmers,” he said.

 “Victoria’s Wannon Region is one of Australia’s largest and most important dairy producing regions and the VFF looks forward to working together to achieve positive outcomes for farmers.”

Mr Knowles has owned and operated his dairy farm in Tyrendarra since 1996 after emigrating from New Zealand.

His policy agenda includes engagement with and representation of the members at the grassroots.

“I believe in turning up and listening to all members points of view,” Mr Knowles said in his nomination for the position.

“I believe in exploring all matters raised by you and by individuals who demonstrate they have the credentials and the best interests of Australian Dairy and the Dairy Farmers at heart.

“The dairy farmer voice needs to be empowered; dairy farmer unity needs to be secured as a first priority with restructure reform.”

The United Dairyfarmers of Victoria is the peak body for Victorian dairy farmers representing them on a range of Federal, State and Local Government issues.

As a commodity group of the VFF, the UDV also provides representation on a broad range of agricultural issues affecting all farmers, not just those specific to dairy.

Mr Taylor paid tribute to all the nominees for participating in the election process and acknowledged their contribution to the VFF and UDV.

“We would like to thank all nominees for their time, effort and passion in helping to ensure a bright future for the Victorian dairy industry,” he said.