PHA is deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of former PHA Board Director, Elizabeth Alexander (Liz). Liz was a valued PHA Board Director from November 2013 to September 2021, serving two terms and contributing enormously to our Board meetings, strategy, and culture. Her insights and dedication to improving Australia’s plant biosecurity were greatly valued by many.

Liz was a highly accomplished agricultural development specialist. She worked closely with businesses in the central and south-west Queensland regions, as well as agtech businesses nationally, bringing novel products, processes, and services to market.

Her extensive knowledge across the value chain of dryland and irrigated cropping industries and experience across natural resource management, agricultural extension, and water policy, made her a leader in her field.

During her time with the Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC), Liz founded the AgFrontier Regional Agtech Incubator and developed the AgTech events held annually in Emerald, QLD and Mungindi, NSW from 2017.

Liz also served as a non-executive Director of the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) and was the Independent Chair of the Director Selection Committee for Sugar Research Australia. Her past roles included Director of the Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Director of Cotton Australia, and Chair of Theodore Water and the Theodore Irrigation LMA Interim Board. Liz was also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, reflecting her extensive leadership and governance expertise.

Liz’s commitment to agricultural development has left a lasting legacy. Her contributions will be remembered and valued by all who had the privilege of working with her.

We feel privileged to have known Liz and offer our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time. She will be greatly missed.

Vale Liz Alexander.