Director Lachlan Marshall, who is seeking re-election to the MIL board in the current director elections, wants to remain a part of the company’s progress.
He is urging shareholders to ensure they vote during this month’s election, and encouraging them to acknowledge the recent gains and give the board a mandate to continue building for a sustainable future.
“During my time on the board we have faced some headwinds, however I am confident we are now moving in the right direction,” he said.
“It is an era of change brought about primarily by external factors, yet we are forced to work in this situation.
“We need to find avenues to move forward while Basin Plan implementation is ongoing.
“As a company, we need to ensure we have a seat at the table when government decisions are being discussed, and advocate strongly on behalf of shareholders.
“Fortunately, in recent times the MIL relationship with governments and their agencies has improved, so we are in a better position in this regard than we have been at times in the past.
“This has been achieved with a lot of hard work, and neither the company or our shareholders can afford to go backwards in this area.”
Mr Marshall said with a changing landscape, it has been imperative the MIL board of directors has a focus on financial stability, but without adding financial pressure to shareholders.
“I’m an irrigator,” the local dairy farmer said.
“I know the importance of having water delivered efficiently at the lowest possible cost.
“That’s why the board has an ongoing commitment to minimising any increases in fees and charges.
“With less water available for food and fibre production, MIL also needs to look at ways to help our shareholders get the water they need.
“To address this, we have developed commercial solutions to ensure the Murray Irrigation footprint continues to be the nation’s prime irrigated agriculture region.”
Mr Marshall is passionate about the future of irrigated agriculture and hopes shareholders will give him the opportunity to serve another term on the MIL Board, thus enabling him to be involved in key decisions on the industry’s future.
“Despite the challenges, we are going forward.
“After a difficult period, we have a stable board with supportive management and staff.
“The recent acknowledgement of our team, which won Excellence in Customer Service at last month’s Deniliquin Business Awards, was recognition for their commitment and professionalism.
“The board and the company have come a long way in the past 12 months, and I firmly believe now is the time to vote for ongoing momentum.
“The board, the company, our shareholders and the broader community will all benefit if the stability which has been built is allowed to continue.”
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