Mike Petersen elected as Chairman of Pastoral Genomics

21 July 2016

Experienced agribusiness leader, Mike Petersen has been elected as the new Chair of Pastoral Genomics. Mike has had an association with the programme for a number of years, particularly during his time as Chair of Beef & Lamb NZ.  Mike is enthusiastic about the benefits of improved forages for livestock and says he is “looking forward to working with the other Directors on delivering significant benefits to the pastoral sector from this programme”.

Mike notes that “the Pastoral Genomics programme is hugely important to the pastoral sector – particularly as we look to more efficient and profitable pastoral production. While we have enjoyed significant genetic gains in animals over the years, we need to match these with similar gains in pastures.”

Mike Dunbier steps down as Chair of Pastoral Genomics after a long association with the programme. He has guided the programme through a number of significant changes.  The most recent being the transition to genomic selection, involving Dairy Australia and the two major seed New Zealand companies to contribute to the programme.  He has been a tireless contributor to the pastoral sector and the strategic approach that the Pastoral Genomics programme offers.