“I’m proud to see that the skills learnt at our workshops are taken beyond the farm gate and back into our farming communities.
“Whether through volunteering on local committees, sporting clubs, A&P Societies or school councils, that ripple effect continues to strengthen the fabric of regional life.
“The highlights of my time that stand out include the collaboration with local businesses to create the Gather, Grow and Thrive event in Rupanyup in 2022 and 2023, and establishing the Ag Ed Quest School Program in collaboration with the Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee.
“Connecting schools with our industry and highlighting careers in agriculture for young people is really rewarding.”
Ms Colbert said it had been a privilege to help build the capability of farming communities by supporting farmers to upskill, grow in confidence, and strengthen both their on-farm practices and business acumen.
PinAg chair Tracy Dart acknowledged Ms Colbert’s significant contribution to the organisation and the broader farming community, while welcoming Ms Doran to the role.
“Katherine has been a strong advocate for our farming community, and we are incredibly grateful for the work she has done to build the strength and capability of the sector,” Mrs Dart said.
“She leaves behind a lasting legacy that we will continue to build on, and we wish her all the very best for the future.”
Mrs Dart said the board was excited to welcome Ms Doran, highlighting her strong connection to regional communities.
“Given the challenges currently facing farmers, empowering people and building capability is critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of our sector,” she said.
With a background in rural journalism, regional advocacy, corporate communications and business ownership, Ms Doran said she looked forward to leading the organisation into its next chapter.
“I’m grateful to be part of an organisation that has a deep connection and purpose in building and advocating for rural communities, and I’m looking forward to working with the board to help steer it into this next chapter,” she said.
“My career has always leant heavily towards regional advocacy.
“As a journalist and as a business owner I have always chosen work that supported farmers and rural communities to thrive.
“It concerns me that we are witnessing a widening of the city country divide. There are so many variables, from natural impacts, market fluctuations to global impacts like the current rise in fuel prices – farmers need all the support they can get to build their personal toolkits and empower them so they can rise to the everyday challenges. I’m excited to be building on Katherine’s legacy and looking at innovative ways that we can build capability in regional communities.”
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