THE region's primary producers will have a strong voice at a state government level thanks to the latest elected members of representative boards.
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Russell Webb (Duri), Rebecca Reardon (Moree), Scott Kermode (Walcha),Grahame Marriott (Inverell), William O'Halloran, (Invergowrie) and Jane Mactier (Tenterden) were the latest members elected to Local Land Services (LLS) boards.
The Northern Tablelands and North West board members will advocate for primary producers across both regions and co-ordinate with LLS on a range of issues.
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Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said the recent bushfires meant the new members would help guide primary producers through a challenging period.
"Following the double whammy of drought and bushfires, there is no denying the past couple of years have been some of the most difficult farmers and communities across our region have ever experienced," Mr Marshall said.
"LLS has proved vital in the response to both these disasters by offering on-the-ground support and local knowledge to farmers when they needed it most.
"Each board has three elected members and I'm incredibly impressed by the level of experience each of these people brings to their role."
Mr Marshall said all of the new board members would bring their own unique skills to their roles.
"Guyra grazier Jane Mactier, Walcha councillor and rural contractor Scott Kermode and sheep industry stalwart Bill O'Halloran from Invergowrie, will take up positions on Northern Tablelands LLS for the first time," he said.
"While each of the elected North West LLS board members has had previous experience in the role, including Croppa Creek and Crooble farmer Geoff Cruikshank, Burren Junction grazier Annie McMahon and semi-retired property manager Keith Harris from Tamworth.
"Now more than ever, it is critical we have dedicated local board members working with their communities to help identify and deliver key services for our farmers and rural landholders."
Across the state, 34 new members have joined the 11 LLS regional boards, with 45 per cent of all board members women.
"LLS boards are the link between the agency and its offices and the community," Mr Marshall said.
"Local boards help provide strategic guidance to LLS and help shape the work that LLS officers undertake.
"With members from all walks of life, these boards reflect the wealth of expertise, skills and experience in rural NSW, which is something we should be proud of."
To see the full list of the 78 board members, or to find out about the services LLS offers, visit: www.lls.nsw.gov.au