GrainGrowers have revealed two Mid North grain industry figures have been selected as part of a program designed to elevate their skills and profiles, positioning them to become some of the most active voices in the industry.
Dili Schoenberg of Waterloo and James Venning of Bute were unveiled as successful applicants for the 2026 OnBoard director development program, joining six others from across the nation.
The program, which has operated since 2021, provides a range of skills training and funds participants to complete the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) course.
The program is designed for growers who want to be an active voice for their industry through board appointments and directorships, involving an in-person program of hard and soft skills training delivered by expert facilitators.
Mr Venning has been involved with several boards and committees outside of his on-farm work and said he has plenty of interest in this field, thus making this opportunity an attractive one.
“I’m super excited to be involved, South Australia is pretty well represented in the program and I think that’s a testament to the number of leaders and active people we have here in the industry,” he said.
“Organisations like Grain Producers SA have been good at encouraging leadership and funneling people through programs, which is really beneficial to the industry.”
Mr Venning is hoping to develop more competence in his capabilities to in turn boost his confidence.
“I find im a confident person when I’m competent, but tend to retract when I feel I am out of my depth, so I’m super excited to gain the skills to take to other roles in the industry, starting at lower local grower group levels and working into higher appointments,” he said.
GrainGrowers chief executive officer Shona Gawel said the course was an ideal opportunity for the selected participants to build expertise and contribute to the longer-term development of the industry and the wider community.
“Since OnBoard commenced, many of our participants have put the training to good use, taking up positions on our National Policy Group and Board, other industry association boards, GRDC Panels and regional community groups,” she said.
The OnBoard program runs for approximately nine months, commencing with a three day training session held in Sydney in March.
