1. Purpose

The purpose of this Member Update is to announce the five participants selected for Grain Trade Australia’s (GTA) 2026-27 Five Under 30 program and acknowledge the successful completion of the 2025-26 program.

2. Background

GTA’s Five Under 30 program supports emerging professionals in the Australian grain industry through mentoring, professional development, and exposure to key industry forums.

Now in its fourth year, the program aims to strengthen leadership capability across the sector and encourage participation from individuals with diverse perspectives and experiences.

3. Key Points

GTA is pleased to announce the five young professionals selected for the 2026-27 Five Under 30 program.

Over the next 12 months, participants will engage in targeted mentoring, professional development, and GTA industry activities to build their knowledge, skills, and connections across the grain industry.

The GTA Membership Committee and Board assessed applications, selecting candidates based on merit and consideration of gender, background, experience, and geographic representation.

The five participants selected for the 2026-27 cohort are:

• Merryn Bowman, Grain Marketer at GrainCorp
• Alisa Champakhokkruat, Coordinator – Trade Support at CBH
• Lachlan Haslam, Commodity Broker at Farmarco
• Zoe Murray, Wharf Operations Supervisor at Riordan Group
• Sam Waddell, Finance & Operations Manager at Clear Grain Exchange

The participants will be introduced to the industry through GTA events and activities throughout the program.

GTA congratulates the 2025-26 Five Under 30 participants, Bonnie Baker, Chelsea Kennewell, Courtney Heagney and George Laurie, on their contribution to the program. Their involvement supports the development of future leaders and helps strengthen connections across the grain industry.

4. Further Information

Further information about the Five Under 30 program is available on the GTA website.