Grain Trade Australia (GTA) is proud to announce the five young professionals selected for the 2025/26 Five Under 30 program. Now in its third year, the initiative continues to support the next generation of leaders in the Australian grain industry.

Participants will spend the next 12 months engaging in targeted mentoring, professional development, and exposure to key industry forums. The program is designed to strengthen leadership capability across the sector while encouraging participation from individuals who bring diverse perspectives and experiences. This year’s program again attracted strong interest from across the GTA membership. Applications were assessed by the GTA Membership Committee and Board, with selection based on merit, gender, background, experience, and geographic representation.

GTA CEO Pat O’Shannassy said the program highlights the strength of emerging talent in the sector:
“The quality and breadth of applications highlight the enthusiasm of young professionals to contribute to the grain industry. The 2025/26 cohort reflects the diversity and talent that will ensure our industry remains resilient and forward-looking.”

The five participants selected for this year’s program are:

• Bonnie Baker, Grains and Protein Meals Purchasing, JBS Pork
• Braden Perry, Site Supervisor, Universal Commodity Management
• Chelsea Heinrich, Consultant – Commodity Risk Management, Pinion Advisory
• Courtney Heagney, Business Manager, Brahman Commodities
• George Laurie, Junior Trader, LDC.

The new Five Under 30 participants will be formally introduced to the industry at GTA’s upcoming events and will play an active role in GTA activities throughout the year.

For more information about the program, visit graintrade.org.au/five-under-30

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Media Contact:
Pat O’Shannassy
CEO, Grain Trade Australia
M: +61 427 881 113
E: pat.oshannassy@graintrade.org.au