Pipfruit New Zealand Chairman steps down

October 13 2004

Pipfruit New Zealand Chairman steps down

Pipfruit New Zealand chairman Phil Alison announced today he would not be standing for re-election at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting in January.

Mr Alison said he would also step down as chairman of the board when nominations open for the new term next week on October 20.

Nelson director Ian Palmer has been appointed the board’s new chairman.

Mr Alison said after nine years service including seven as chairman, it was time for change and he wanted to signal his intentions to growers prior to the nomination process for the new term.

“Ian Palmer had already indicated his intention to stand for chairman for the new term and the timing of my resignation provides an ideal opportunity for him to step into the role and demonstrate a smooth transition for the incoming board,” Mr Alison said.

Mr Alison, a Hawke’s Bay grower, said his time with Pipfruit New Zealand had been exciting, challenging and at times overwhelming.

“During the past nine years the industry has seen some momentous challenges and rewards including deregulation, the ownership for ENZA and foreign exchange battles, the formation of a grower-owned Research and Development company and record apple prices.

In the past year there has been the restructuring of the grower organisation, its relocation from Wellington to Hawke’s Bay and the creation of the new industry-wide body Pipfruit New Zealand. The other significant achievement this year had been the successful joint venture agreement for the world leading New Zealand Apple Breeding Programme.

“The successful outcome for gaining access to Australia for New Zealand apples remains a major challenge for the industry. However we have made significant progress in the last few years,” Mr Alison said.

“I am satisfied that I have given 100 percent commitment to being part of all these industry challenges and have enjoyed the rollercoaster ride that at times it has been,” he said.

ENDS

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