Actively strengthening and fostering relationships with the GRDC’s research partners, growers and the broader grains industry in WA, is a key part of Peter Bird’s role as GRDC Senior Regional Manager – West.

He took up this position late in 2019 after a period of acting in the role. His previous role was GRDC Manager National Variety Trials (NVT) – West, and he is maintaining oversight of this responsibility until a replacement is appointed.

Peter grew up on a farm in the Bindoon and Gingin area, and has more than 20 years of experience in grain crop agronomy, trial management and product development.

In his role as GRDC Senior Regional Manager – West, he helps to ensure that the GRDC’s western region office is operating efficiently and effectively. A total of 13 GRDC staff are based at the Perth office, located at Technology Park in Bentley.

“It’s exciting to take on the manager role and to contribute to the strong GRDC team in WA and across Australia, which is working hard to achieve tangible results on behalf of our levy-paying growers,” Peter said.

“In addition to overseeing the operation of the GRDC office, I have oversight of the organisation’s activities and operations in WA, helping to ensure the effective delivery of short-term local research, development and extension (RD&E) in the State.

“Providing support to the GRDC Western Region Panel is another part of my role – and ensuring RD&E projects are developed in line with priority issues the Panel identifies through consultation with growers.

“To ensure a coordinated, efficient approach to GRDC RD&E investments, I work closely with different business groups within GRDC and link with staff members in the GRDC’s southern, northern and Canberra offices.”