Welcome new AIR EP Board Members
Agricultural Innovation & Research Eyre Peninsula (AIR EP) is pleased to welcome three new members to its Board, following the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 15 October 2026.
Alex Stratford, Michael Tarin and Dr Tim Sutton join the AIR EP Board, bringing a diverse mix of agricultural, financial, governance and research expertise to support the organisations continued growth and strategic direction.
The appointments follow constitutional changes endorsed by AIR EP members at the 2025 AGM, when members voted in favour of increasing Board membership from five to seven directors. The changes were designed to strengthen Board capacity, broaden representation and bring additional skills and perspectives to the organisations governance.
“With AIR EP continuing to connect farmers, researchers and industry across the Eyre Peninsula, the new appointments will help ensure the organisation remains well positioned to deliver practical, locally relevant research, development and extension (RD&E) outcomes”, says Executive Officer Naomi Scholz.
Meet our new Board members
Alex Stratford – Bringing a fresh, local agribusiness perspective
Based in Tumby Bay, Alex Stratford works in fertiliser, seed sales and administration at Bawdens Rural. With Diplomas in Agronomy and Applied Agronomy, Alex brings a growing technical knowledge of agricultural production alongside practical experience in rural agribusiness.
Alex is also actively involved in her local community, including serving as President of the Great Flinders Netball Association, and is a graduate of the WoTL Stepping Into Leadership program.
Alex is passionate about supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders and ensuring research translates into meaningful on-farm outcomes.
“I see joining the AIR EP Board as an opportunity to contribute a fresh perspective, learn from experienced industry leaders and play a role in supporting a productive, sustainable future for agriculture and the communities that underpin it,” Alex said.
Michael Tarin – Strengthening financial and governance expertise
Michael Tarin brings extensive experience in finance, corporate governance and strategic business management.
As Director of RSM Accounting in Port Lincoln, Michael works closely with farming and agricultural businesses across South Australia, advising on business planning, succession, financial management and growth. He also serves as a Director of Bendigo Bank and West Coast Home Care.
Michael’s experience will provide valuable insight into the business challenges facing farming enterprises and support AIR EP’s long-term financial sustainability and strategic planning.
“Through my work with farming businesses, I’ve gained valuable insights into the challenges facing agriculture and am keen to support AIR EP’s future direction and success,” Michael said.
Dr Tim Sutton – Connecting research with regional priorities
Dr Tim Sutton is Research Director, Crop Sciences at the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), bringing almost 30 years of experience in grains research and innovation.
A plant molecular geneticist, Tim has held research leadership and executive management roles across university and government sectors, focusing on improving the productivity and sustainability of Australian primary industries.
As an Ex-officio Board member, his experience connecting regional priorities with research capability, industry partnerships and investment opportunities will be particularly valuable to AIR EP.
“I joined the AIR EP Board because I see real value in connecting the priorities of Eyre Peninsula growers with the research capability, partnerships and investment needed to deliver practical outcomes and build resilient farming systems for the future,” Tim said.
Looking ahead
Together, the three new directors bring complementary skills and perspectives that will strengthen AIR EP’s governance and its ability to respond to the evolving needs of Eyre Peninsula agriculture.
AIR EP warmly welcomes Alex, Michael and Tim and looks forward to their contributions in supporting innovative research, strong industry partnerships and practical outcomes for the region’s farming communities.
For an update on AIR EP’s achievements and performance, download the 2025/26 Annual Report.
Find out more: https://airep.com.au/about/meet_the_board/
