Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Burke, has appointed the new board of the Sugar Research and Development Corporation.

Five new members have been appointed to the board through to April 2011.

The new Sugar Research and Development Corporation board is:
Michael Braude is Group Treasurer of Coca-Cola Amatil Ltd with extensive experience in economic, finance and business management.
David Campbell has experience in science, technology and technology transfer, commercialisation of research outcomes and biotechnology policy as well as administration and finance in research and development
Caroline Coppo is a scientist, educator and partner in a cane farming business with extensive knowledge of the environment and experience in managing and conserving natural resources
Stephen Guazzo is a third-generation sugar cane grower with experience in many aspects of the sugar and cane industries
Ian Sampson has senior management experience in a range of industries, including the sugar industry, and is providing strategic advisory services to Tully Sugar Ltd
Angela Williams is Sugar Executive Officer in the Bundaberg and Isis region with experience in the public sector, natural resource management and research and development programs

Stephen Guazzo has been reappointed and the remaining members are new.

The appointment of Chairman of the board Ian Knop AM was announced separately last October.  Mr Knop is Chairman and Managing Director of Profile Ray & Berndtson, an international executive search and strategic consulting advisory firm.

Mr Burke said the new board reflects a range of experience and industry involvement.

“This is a challenging time for the sugar industry and the board will play a critical role in securing a vibrant, modern sugar industry for the future, through targeted investment in research and development,” Mr Burke said.

“This will include meeting the challenges of climate change and a shrinking world.”

Mr Burke thanked retiring board members, Dr Douglas Hogarth, Dr Mary Corbett, Patrice Brown, and Andrew Barfield.