Rural Aid Appoints Jess Webb as New Board Member
Rural Aid is pleased to announce the appointment of Jess Webb to its Board of Directors. Ms Webb brings extensive experience in agribusiness, governance, and rural community development, further strengthening Rural Aid’s commitment to supporting Australian farming communities.
Ms Webb has served on several for-purpose and non-profit boards, including Beef Australia, where she is Vice-Chair, and The Armidale School Foundation, where she contributes to fundraising and strategic growth initiatives.
With a background in communications and strategy in agribusiness, and hands-on experience operating an Angus beef cattle enterprise in the New England region, Ms Webb has a deep understanding of the issues facing rural and regional Australia.
“As producers, we live and breathe the realities facing rural communities, be it in the paddock or at the kitchen table. That experience grounds me, but it also drives my determination to ensure our voices are heard, not only when disaster strikes, but in the quieter times too,” Ms Webb said.
“Ensuring our rural industries remain relevant beyond crisis is what builds true resilience and sustainability for the long term.”
Ms Webb joins an experienced board of directors with strong connections across the agricultural and corporate sectors. The board comprises:
- Alex Hutton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mackay’s, Australia’s leading banana growers
- Barrie Adams, Deputy Chairman and former Commissioner of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission
- Trent Thorne, Partner at Hamilton Locke and Co-Lead of its Food and Agribusiness Group
- Erica Halliday, Immediate Past President of Angus Australia and co-owner of Ben Nevis Stud, Walcha
- Ben Pevreall, Regional Vice-President, Asia and Pacific, at Valmont Industries
- Andrew Hall, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Council of Australia
- Luke Chandler, Managing Director for John Deere Australia and New Zealand
- Jess Webb, Vice-Chair of the Beef Australia Board of Directors
Rural Aid Chairman Alex Hutton welcomed the appointment, saying:
“Jess brings a blend of leadership experience, industry knowledge, and practical farming insight. Her perspectives will be invaluable as we continue to deliver programs that provide real support to Australian farmers when they need it most.”
Ms Webb’s appointment reflects Rural Aid’s ongoing commitment to strong governance and ensuring the organisation is guided by leaders with both professional expertise and a deep understanding of rural Australia.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au