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Friday, 1 October 2004 The Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia Inc. has paid tribute to Ian Davidge, an esteemed member of the Australian industry who passed away yesterday after a long period of illness. “Ian’s leadership, dedication and contribution to the Australian rice industry were immense and he will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to know him, said Mr Laurie Arthur, President of the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia Inc. Mr Davidge was one of the great pioneers of the Australian rice industry, becoming a member of the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia Inc in 1954, only four years after its formation. “Ian brought a unique combination of leadership skills, intellectual capacity, political nous, commitment, integrity, honesty and compassion which has benefited the industry and the broader rural community,” said Mr Arthur. “He guided the rice industry through a period of growth and development, against many adversities, to the position the industry is in today - recognised as one of the most successful export focused, value adding industries in Australia,” said Mr Arthur. Mr Davidge became President of the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia in 1963 and fulfilled this role for twelve years. Upon his appointment, Mr Davidge set about strengthening the Association’s membership and Branch structure. Mr Davidge’s service to the Australian rice industry also included thirty-six years as a Director of the Ricegrowers' Co-operative Ltd (RCL) including twenty-two years as Chairman. “Ian recognised the need for the rice industry to be market driven and during his thirty-six years on the RCL Board, he negotiated many new overseas markets for branded Australian rice products,” said Mr Arthur. Mr Davidge passed away peacefully at home comforted by his family and friends. CONTACT |
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