21 June 2002
Hugh Ritchie was elected Chairman of the Grains Council of New Zealand at the Council's Annual Conference in
Christchurch today. Mr Ritchie has been Vice Chairman of the Council since 1999 and farms at Otane in Hawkes Bay.
One of Mr Ritchie's main focuses will be the streamlining of grain grower representation.
"Many grain growers are also involved in the horticulture and vegetable industries, so it makes sense to work smarter on
issues such as the Kyoto Protocol that impact on all farmers, said Mr Ritchie.
Mr Ritchie replaces outgoing Chairman Neil Barton who has completed his three-year term. A Vice-Chairman is still to be
appointed.
ENDS