Emma Germano and Gemma Monk will vie for the position, ahead of the organisation’s annual general meeting on February 26.

The position of vice president became vacant last year when Brett Hosking, of Quambatook, stepped down from the role following his appointment as GrainGrowers chairman.

Voting for the position of VFF vice president has begun. VFF members can vote via postal or electronic voting. Election results will be announced at the VFF Annual General Meeting on February 26.

Emma Germano is a third generation south Gippsland farmer. She currently produces vegetables under irrigation, fodder for dairy, and also runs prime lambs and beef cattle. Ms Germano is the VFF Horticulture Group president, a VFF board member, and has been actively involved with the organisation for over four years.

“This has provided me with an excellent understanding of how the organisation operates and its current culture, as well as the opportunities for change,” she said.

“I know how important it is for the VFF to show strong leadership on the things that will ensure the long-term sustainability of our industry – issues such as animal welfare, water policy, farm labour, road and rail.”

Gemma Monk has farmed across several regions in Victoria. She grew up in Gippsland, and has share farmed near Shepparton and Warrnambool. 

“I purchased my first farm near Rochester, and finally expanded to 700 cows on the current farm near Kyabram. The current farm has a large element of irrigated cropping,” Ms Monk said.

She has worked as an agriculture teacher and trainer for GOTAFE, and has represented dairy farmers on the UDV Policy Council for the past three years.

“I will ensure that my fellow farmers have a strong voice and that their rights are up held. I will work towards minimising red tape that farmers have to currently navigate.”