Andrew Hore-Lacy
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Foundations of Directorship™
AgriFutures Australia is committed to supporting the people who are driving, and will drive, the future prosperity of Australian rural industries and communities. We do this by investing in leadership, capacity and skills development programs for our stakeholders.
The Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) is Australia’s leading provider of governance education and development programs, governance assessment services and Board advisory services. AgriFutures is offering stakeholders the opportunity to participate in the AICD Foundations of Directorship™ with all course fees covered.
Applications for 2027 open in August 2026.
About the Foundations of Directorship™
Designed for: Experienced directors, new directors, business owners and senior executives reporting to boards.
Course commencement date: TBC
Duration: Three one-day courses/Six half-day sessions
Location: Online
Foundations of Directorship™ is designed for new or aspiring governing body members and executive teams. The program provides a comprehensive introduction to the three core components of directorship: governance, risk and strategy, and finance. Participants are given the opportunity to build their governance and directorship knowledge together, in the context of your industry sector and the ‘here and now’ of contemporary operating environments.
The program includes the following three courses, which are each broken down into two sessions (making a total of six half- day sessions):
- Governance for Directors: this course examines the duties and responsibilities of individual directors and the board. It offers valuable insights into leadership, the rights of directors, and the boardroom environment. Sessions include:
- The Role of the Director and the Board.
- Introduction to Board Meetings and Governance.
- Risk and Strategy for Directors: this course explores the director’s role in identifying, formulating, and monitoring an organisation’s strategy and risk appetite, and their effect on performance. Sessions include:
- Introduction to the Strategic Role of the Director.
- Risk: Issues for Directors.
- Finance for Directors: this course addresses financial health in an organisation, the understanding of key financial indicators for decision making, and the interpretation of financial statements. Sessions include:
- Introduction to Financial Statements for Directors.
- Assessing Financial Performance for Directors.
Current Cohort
Anna Power
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Professor Kerry Wilkinson
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Donna Digby
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Chris Wilkins
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Darryl Lyons
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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James Manning
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Katherine Faull
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Miriam Villen King
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Nathan Crowley
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Rashida Khan
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Rebecca Kuss
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Rebecca Zentveld
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Simon Henderson
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Vivienne McCollum
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
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Andrew Hore-Lacy
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
CEO, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse
Andrew Hore-Lacy is CEO of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse, leading national representation and global promotion of Australia’s thoroughbred breeding industry. With 15 years at the Seven Network, including as Head of Horse Racing, he combines deep industry knowledge with strong media and stakeholder experience. Andrew is focused on strengthening sustainability, reputation and international competitiveness, working closely with government and industry to address key challenges. He is passionate about ensuring the long-term success of the sector, supporting innovation, and building a resilient, future-focused breeding industry that delivers value for participants across Australia.
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Anna Power
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Chartered Accountant
Anna Power is a Chartered Accountant with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Sydney, specialising in Accounting and Agricultural Economics. She works within the thoroughbred industry and is a graduate of the Godolphin Flying Start program. Anna has contributed to key initiatives including Together for Racing International, National Thoroughbred Week, and workforce development programs. She brings strong financial expertise alongside a commitment to collaboration and capability building across the sector. Anna is focused on supporting a sustainable, high-performing industry, with a particular interest in strengthening workforce development and improving outcomes for participants across the thoroughbred sector.
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Professor Kerry Wilkinson
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Leading wine scientist and educator, University of Adelaide
Professor Kerry Wilkinson is a leading wine scientist and educator at the University of Adelaide, recognised globally for her research. For nearly two decades, she has led pioneering work on smoke taint, helping the wine industry better predict, manage and respond to vineyard smoke exposure. She also leads research exploring consumer acceptance of insects as food and pet food. As Director of the AgriFutures Insect Industry Program, Kerry oversees national RD&E efforts to support an emerging sector. She is passionate about translating science into practical outcomes that strengthen industry resilience and create new opportunities across Australian agriculture.
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Donna Digby
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Founder, Territory Connect
Donna Digby is Founder of Territory Connect, a for-purpose enterprise focused on strengthening leadership, regional capability and connection across Northern Territory communities. With over 20 years’ experience living and working in the Territory, she brings deep regional insight and trusted relationships across industry, government and the not-for-profit sector. Donna has extensive experience in governance, strategic advisory and regional development, and holds multiple board roles. She is committed to building strong, sustainable organisations and supporting leaders to drive meaningful outcomes. Her work centres on enhancing resilience, capability and opportunity across regional and remote Australia.
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Chris Wilkins
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Treasurer, Australian Agritech Association
Chris Wilkins is an executive, entrepreneur and experienced director in the agricultural technology sector. He currently serves as Treasurer of the Australian Agritech Association and has previously held a board role with Protected Cropping Australia. Chris is involved in shaping the National Strategic Plan for Agricultural Technology and brings expertise in capital raising, product innovation and business development. With a background in engineering and science, he supports the commercialisation and responsible growth of emerging technologies. Chris is passionate about strengthening Australia’s agritech ecosystem and enabling producers to adopt solutions that improve productivity, sustainability and long-term industry performance.
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Darryl Lyons
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Co-Founder and Chief Rainmaker, Rainstick Pty Ltd
Darryl Lyons is a proud Maiawali man and third-generation producer from Central Queensland. As Co-Founder and Chief Rainmaker at Rainstick Pty Ltd, he leads the development of innovative seed treatment technologies that support more resilient agriculture. A three-time founder, Darryl brings experience across agritech, telecommunications and logistics, with strengths in business development and operations. He is deeply committed to integrating Indigenous knowledge with modern technology to improve land stewardship and sustainability. Darryl is passionate about supporting producers to adapt to changing conditions while strengthening biodiversity and delivering positive, long-term outcomes for agriculture and community.
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James Manning
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Thoroughbred Stud Manager, Godolphin
James Manning is a Thoroughbred Stud Manager with Godolphin, based at Northwood Park in Victoria, where he oversees property operations, staff and bloodstock. Since joining Godolphin in 2014, he has built strong experience in breeding and management practices. James also serves on the board of VicNoTill, reflecting his broader interest in agriculture and sustainable farming systems. He is focused on improving production outcomes, animal wellbeing and workforce attraction and retention. Passionate about the thoroughbred sector, James is committed to refining practices that support long-term industry sustainability and strengthening the future of agriculture more broadly.
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Katherine Faull
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Chair, Truffle Peak Body
Katherine Faull is a truffle grower and national peak body Chair, combining hands-on farming experience with senior leadership across medical technology, higher education and the disability sector. She holds a PhD in Public Health and has led complex, regulated environments and national industry initiatives. Katherine brings strong expertise in governance, policy and stakeholder engagement. A Fellow of the Governor’s Leadership Foundation, she is passionate about building leadership capability and strengthening governance across agriculture. Her work focuses on supporting resilient, future-focused industries that can respond to change and deliver lasting benefits to regional communities.
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Miriam Villen King
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
General Manager of Science and Sustainability, Stahmann Webster
Dr Miriam Villen King is General Manager of Science and Sustainability at Stahmann Webster, one of Australia’s leading tree nut producers. With a background in chemical and agricultural engineering, she leads data-driven approaches to optimise orchard production and sustainability outcomes. Miriam is also involved in Australian Rainforest Honey, the organisation’s commercial beekeeping business. A 2023 Nuffield Scholar, she researched sustainable walnut farming internationally. She is a strong advocate for collaboration, innovation and environmental responsibility, and is committed to building a more resilient, productive and sustainable agriculture sector for the future.
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Nathan Crowley
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Rice Grower
Nathan Crowley manages a family farming enterprise near Griffith, producing rice, cereals and prime lamb. He applies precision agriculture techniques to improve efficiency, productivity and sustainability. With a background in engineering and large-scale construction project management, Nathan brings strong technical and commercial capability to the business. He also plays a leadership role with the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia, contributing to industry advocacy and policy. Nathan is committed to strengthening the future of Australian agriculture through innovation, practical on-farm improvements and active engagement with industry and his local community.
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Rashida Khan
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Founder, Red Rocks Stud
Rashida Khan is a proud Ngaringman/Mudbra woman with a diverse career spanning governance, education, agriculture, mental health and business. She holds multiple leadership roles supporting regional development, workforce capability and better outcomes for remote communities. Rashida is also the founder of several businesses, including Red Rocks Stud. With extensive experience working across Arnhem Land and Central Australia, she brings strong practical and strategic expertise. Passionate about strengthening governance capability, Rashida is committed to supporting sustainable development and creating meaningful change for communities, industry and regional Australia.
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Rebecca Kuss
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Company Secretary, Mohair Australia Ltd
Rebecca Kuss is an Angora goat breeder based north of Adelaide, where she manages a 30-hectare property and has been producing mohair for over eight years. She serves as Company Secretary of Mohair Australia Ltd, the national peak body supporting the industry. Rebecca has an extensive career in governance and legislative roles within the South Australian Government and currently works as Business Manager, Vehicle Operations, Department of Infrastructure and Transport. She brings strong governance expertise and a practical understanding of agriculture and is committed to supporting industry development and strengthening outcomes for producers.
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Rebecca Zentveld
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Founding Director, Zentveld’s Coffee
Rebecca Zentveld is Founding Director of Zentveld’s Coffee and a long-standing leader in the Australian coffee industry. As President of the Australian Grown Coffee Association, she has played a key role in driving the industry’s resurgence, supporting growers and strengthening collaboration across research, government and media. With more than 30 years’ experience, Rebecca is a passionate advocate for Australian-grown produce and regenerative farming practices. She shares her knowledge widely through industry events, media and education. Rebecca is committed to building recognition, capability and long-term growth for Australia’s coffee sector.
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Simon Henderson
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
President, Australian Ginger Industry Association
Simon Henderson is President of the Australian Ginger Industry Association and brings extensive leadership experience across aviation and agriculture. A former RAAF member, he served in the first Gulf War and later held senior training and management roles with Australian and international airlines. Simon has served on several regulatory panels and is a qualified lead auditor. He holds a doctorate and was awarded the Flight Safety Foundation Award for Achievement in Human Factors and Flight Safety. Simon is focused on strengthening governance, safety and industry capability, supporting the continued growth and resilience of the Australian ginger sector.
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Vivienne McCollum
2026 AgriFutures-sponsored Australian Institute of Company Directors Program recipient
Founding Director, AGK Services
Vivienne McCollum is an agri-innovation leader, fractional executive and experienced director with more than 35 years’ experience across the agrifood sector. As Founding Director of AGK Services, she works at the intersection of innovation, commercialisation and governance, helping organisations translate research into practical outcomes. Vivienne also serves as Chair of Country to Canberra, supporting leadership pathways for young rural women. A strong advocate for regional Australia, she is committed to building resilient, future-focused communities and industries through capability development, collaboration and innovation.
Eligibility and Essential Requirements
Eligibility
To be eligible for an AgriFutures supported position, you must be one of the following:
- An engaged member of — and intending to remain involved in — one of the following Australian industries:
- Chicken meat
- Export fodder
- Thoroughbred horses
- Honey bee & pollination
- Rice
- Pasture seeds
- Ginger
- Tea tree oil
- Kangaroo
- Buffalo
- Goat fibre
- Deer
- An engaged member of — and intending to remain involved in —an emerging Australian agricultural industry (e.g. coffee, hazelnut, industrial hemp, insects, crocodile, seaweed/algae, sesame, truffle, or other up-and-coming rural industries)
- An agrifood innovation professional (e.g. agrifood or agritech startups, scaleups or companies; Producer Technology Uptake Program participants and coordinators; innovation brokers)
- A Rural Women’s Award alum*.
Essential Requirements
All applicants of the Foundations of Directorship™ Course must be available to attend all three days of the course. These dates are not flexible. The position is not transferable. Participants are required to complete the course assessment and provide evidence of completion to AgriFutures Australia.
The online delivery has been designed around everyone contributing via their own device. Every participant will need a computer or tablet, headset (headphones) with a microphone to be able to participate in discussions. Webcam functionality is highly recommended, and access to reliable, high-speed internet (we recommend a minimum bandwidth of 4Mbps for uploads and downloads). Use of a smartphone is not recommended.
*Rural Women’s Award alumni include State/Territory Finalists, State/Territory Winners, National Finalists and National Winners of any of the following programs: the ABC Radio Rural Woman of the Year (1994-1997); the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) Rural Women’s Award (2000-2016); or the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award (2017 onwards).
Application Information
Before you apply
The course fees are fully sponsored by AgriFutures Australia. Eligible AgriFutures stakeholders (outlined above) are encouraged to apply with applications to be assessed and selected by AgriFutures Capacity Building staff. Applicants are required to respond to a number of selection criteria and provide evidence of their engagement in their specified category.
How to apply
Applications for 2027 will open in August 2026.
Contact
Enquiries about AgriFutures supported positions
For questions about eligibility, funding support, or the AgriFutures application process, please contact:
Sarah Hope
Manager, Capacity Building
Hannah Keely
Coordinator, Capacity Building
Information about the AICD programs
For program details, structure, and delivery, visit the Australian Institute of Company Directors’ website:
Click here for more information about Foundations of Directorship™
Click here for more information about the Company Directors Course™