Welcome to the November edition of Tendrils.

Whilst November’s edition of Tendrils is a tad late, Plant Health Australia’s dance card has been well and truly full, and this edition highlights just some of the achievements, collaborations and moments of recognition across our system, with valuable opportunities to recognise leadership, connect with Members and progress national conversations on biosecurity priorities.

In late October, I had the privilege of presenting at the Botanic Gardens Australia and New Zealand Congress in Canberra, where I spoke about PHA’s role as the national coordinator for plant biosecurity and the invaluable contribution of botanic gardens to the system. Botanic gardens play an increasingly important role as sentinel sites, offering unique insight into host behaviour, climate resilience and early identification of pest incursions. Our partnerships in this space continue to strengthen national preparedness and provide vital intelligence to the system.

Other highlights included our involvement in the Parliamentary Friends of Grains showcase, where we supported the grains industry in promoting innovation and capability, and attending the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Awards, celebrating leadership, creativity and impact across rural and regional communities.

Earlier in November, I attended the Australian Biosecurity Awards presented by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), which celebrate the individuals and organisations making significant contributions to our national biosecurity system. Congratulations to Ella Matta Pastoral from Kangaroo Island named Farm Biosecurity Producer of the Year, in an award category proudly sponsored by PHA through the Farm Biosecurity Program, a joint initiative with Animal Health Australia (AHA). Their leadership in on-farm biosecurity is an outstanding example of how practical, consistent actions strengthen the entire system. I also acknowledge Dr Allison Crook and Dr Nerida Donovan, recognised for their contributions to veterinary and citrus pathology respectively.

We also released an updated version of the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) in early November, which includes important changes for Signatories. The Deed remains a foundational part of our national preparedness and response arrangements.

In South Australia, PHA partnered with Vinehealth Australia and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) to deliver a phylloxera preparedness exercise in the Barossa Valley, engaging local grape and wine producers in scenario planning and response simulation. This collaboration helped test the updated Phylloxera Outbreak Management Plan and highlighted the importance of industry involvement in preparedness. A full wrap-up of the workshop is available here.

November also saw several important national events. PHA participated in the National Biosecurity Forum, a two-day gathering of leaders across research, policy and strategy. Key discussions centred around national arrangements, the role of the EPPRD, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration across sectors.

The end of November culminated in our Member meetings and Annual General Meeting, held in Canberra and online. Thank you to all who contributed to the discussions and reflections. We were pleased to present the Performance Snapshot video, capturing highlights from July to November. If you missed the AGM or want to revisit key content, you can access the AGM presentation here and the Chair’s address here. A summary of outcomes and decisions from our most recent Board meeting is also available in the Board Communique. As part of our meetings in Canberra last week, PHA Members joined us to commemorate our 25th anniversary at a special celebratory function. We also welcomed Mr Doug Phillips as the new Chair, Dr Jeremy Burdon as Deputy Chair and Dr Andrew Jacobs, Ms Cath Oates, and Ms Liz Riley as new Directors to the PHA Board, to further strengthen PHA’s governance and strategic leadership.

Our 2024–25 Annual Report has now been released, providing a comprehensive overview of PHA’s achievements, financial performance and strategic progress over the past year. At the same time, we have adopted a new Constitution to reflect our registration as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC). The updated Constitution aligns our governance arrangements with the requirements of the Corporations Act, ACNC and the Australian Taxation Office for a company limited by guarantee. The amendments were reviewed by legal advisors and endorsed by our Members.

During November I was honoured to be named a finalist for both The CEO Magazine’s Executive of the Year Awards and the Liquid Learning Women in Leadership Awards. These nominations are acknowledgement, of the work of the PHA team and the light they shine on the importance of plant biosecurity, and I am grateful to represent a sector built on such strong partnerships.

Looking ahead, please note that the PHA office will close at 5pm on Friday, 19 December, and re-open on Monday, 5 January 2026. I thank all staff and Members for your support as we prepare for a busy start to the new year.

Finally, we’re excited how our digital community is growing, with more than 9,100 LinkedIn followers now engaging with PHA updates, insights and achievements. If you’re not already following us, I encourage you to join us on LinkedIn to stay connected with our work in plant biosecurity and be part of the conversation.

Thank you once again for your partnership and commitment to safeguarding Australia’s plant health. I wish you all a safe, productive and enjoyable end to the year.

Regards,

Sarah Corcoran