Candidates line up for tilt for NFF’s top job

Two contenders have emerged to replace Fiona Simson as president of the National Farmers’ Federation.

The contest for the new head of Australia’s peak farming lobby group is on as incumbent president Fiona Simson prepares to stand-down later this year.

National Farmers’ Federation vice president David Jochinke and NFF director Tony York have confirmed they will compete for the role.

Ms Simson was elected president in 2016 – the first woman to hold the title – following three years as vice president. The NSW mixed farmer and grazier has also served as the inaugural chair of the NFF’s horticulture council for five years, and as a director since 2011.

David Jochinke harvesting lentils on his farm near Horsham, Victoria. PICTURE: ZOE PHILLIPS

Mr Jochinke was elected NFF vice president in 2017 after serving as a director for a number of years. The Wimmera farmer was simultaneously Victorian Farmers Federation president between 2016 and 2020.

“Nominations are called a month before the AGM, and at that stage all candidates will put their hands up. I’d love to continue on to that (presidential role), working at the NFF,” Mr Jochinke said.

Western Australian central Wheatbelt farmer Tony York is a former WA Farmers general president who was elected to the NFF board in 2018.

“I’ve been considering it,” Mr York said. “I’ve got to work out if there’s support for me and if I can (juggle it) alongside my wife, family and business. Only one person has done it from WA before, the founding president Don Eckersley, 40 years ago.”

Tony York and son Oscar on their farm at Tammin, WA. PICTURE: COLIN MURTY

Mr Jochinke pipped Mr York to the vice presidential post in 2017.

Southern Queensland beef cattle farmer, NFF director and AgForce Queensland president Georgie Somerset is also believed to be competing for the top job. Ms Somerset also serves on the boards of the ABC and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

She declined to comment on the leadership contest when contacted by The Weekly Times.

The role will be determined by a vote at the NFF’s annual general meeting due to be held in November.

Every member organisation, from the VFF and NSW Farmers to Cotton Australia and Grain Growers are entitled to a vote weighted on the size of their industry or number of members.