Australian Forest Contractors Association Appoints Tim Lester as New General Manager
The Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA) appointed Tim Lester as its new General Manager.
Mr Lester will replace outgoing General Manager Carlie Porteous and start from the 14th of August 2023.
Mr Lester brings more than two decades of experience working across government and industry organisations, ” focusing on national issues related to natural resource management, sustainable agriculture, animal welfare, biosecurity, and rural innovation,” according to an AFCA media release.
AFCA Chair Adrian Taylor commented on the appointment and expressed confidence in Mr Lester’s abilities.
“Tim will be a great leader for AFCA & representative for its members.”
Outgoing General Manager Carlie Porteous also echoed the sentiment;
“Tim is precisely what the Association needs now; Ms Porteous said, “We have experienced good growth and created a shared community among Forest Contracting Businesses.”
“Tim will see the Association progress even more with his forward-looking policy experience.”
Growing up on a family dairy farm in southern Queensland, Tim has developed a deep passion for advocating sustainable and productive landscapes for rural Australia’s people and industries.
His extensive experience as the Executive Officer for the Council of Rural Research and Development Corporations and his roles in government and agricultural organisations make him an invaluable asset to AFCA.
“We are looking forward to welcoming Tim as an asset to AFCA. His expertise and leadership will be instrumental in driving the continued growth of our organisation,” according to Mr Taylor.
Tim has contributed significantly to various initiatives throughout his career, including his work with the Department of Agriculture on animal welfare and the National Food Plan.
He also played a crucial role as the Department’s first liaison officer to the National Farmers Federation.
His involvement with Land & Water Australia in sustainable agriculture programs, such as Managing Climate Variability, Grain & Graze, and the National Program for Sustainable Irrigation, further demonstrates his dedication to fostering sustainable practices.
Mr Lester said, “Australia’s forestry industries face significant challenges and amazing opportunities.”
Mr Lester is “excited to be taking up the role” and “work with the membership on the issues that matter and will make a difference.”
Tim Lester’s commitment to rural Australia and extensive policy and engagement experience, according to Mr Taylor, made him an excellent choice to lead AFCA into the future.
