Sir John Monash Gold Medal Award for Agribusiness Co-operative Directors 1999

Mr Peter Stewart

Mr Peter Stewart has given 35 years of service to the co-operative movement as a director including five years as Chairman of Maffra Herd Improvement and six years as Chairman of Genetics Australia Co-operative. Although Peter's contribution as a director at MHI ended in 1992 when he was elected Chairman of Genetics Australia, in 1998 he agreed to be part of the first MHI Farmer Liason Group. He has used this opportunity to address the education of the next generation on the importance and value of the co-operative movement. During his time as a director at Genetics Australia, Peter has assisted the co-operative to focus clearly on its mission and has been active in promoting the value of communication and cooperation between the semen-producing co-operative and it's sister Herd Improvement co-operatives.

Peter has clearly demonstrated leadership and policy innovation and on both boards has been highly regarded for his outstanding integrity, wise counsel and quiet but determined approach. As a board member of Genetics Australia, Peter has been active as a Board member in establishing policy covering complex matters for Australia's largest semen producer. As deputy Chairman in the late 1980's, Peter played a critical leadership and support role for the Chairman in bringing about change and a new direction for the co-operative. As deputy chairman, Peter had an active role in the negotiations and as Chairman concluded the negotiations between the Queensland Government and the Victorian Artificial Breeding Co-operative Ltd which lead to the formation of Genetics Australia. Peter's standing and skills in communication and negotiation were a critical part of the relationship building.

Between 1990-91 to 1997-98, Genetics Australia has experienced substantial growth. Sales increased from $4.467 to $11.03 million and Shareholder equity increased from $2.355 million to $5.133 million. This period also saw a strong investment in research and development and a commitment to direct member benefits.

Mr Stewart has a demonstrated capacity to cooperate with both internal and external stakeholders. He has played a role in the many herd improvement co-operatives and associations maintaining mutual understanding and dialogue where in other areas these structures compete with one another. With Genetics Australia, Peter has been a strong advocate for maintaining links with sister herd improvement co-operatives and has had a significant role in establishing a relationship with the ADFF and state farmer organizations. At all times peter has been prepared to make a personal commitment of his time and skill to build and maintain relationships.

The growth and expansion of services at MHI as well as the creation of Australia wide and international linkages as a result of Peters vision is substantial. This includes a strategic alliance with Livestock Improvement Corporation in New Zealand, an alliance with Holland Genetics and the establishment of Genetics Australia Eurcka program.