Chris was born and raised in the Margaret River region in WA.  Following schooling in this area he completed a Bachelor of Business (Agriculture) degree at Muresk. Chris, with wife Robyn, has spent the last 30 years running a successful sheep enterprise in WA’s Midwest, spanning the shires of Irwin, Three Springs, Morawa and Perenjori.  This comprises mainly breeding maternal crossbred ewes for sale to other breeders, plus Poll Dorset and Border Leicester studs.

Semi-retirement recently has seen a move to the Swan Valley near Perth, although he’s still running considerable farming interests in Midwest and Northeast Wheatbelt. Involvement in the PGA has been extensive in an effort to contribute to the industry which he has gained so much from.  This culminated in him winning the 2024 PGA Achievement Award.

PGA Roles

Chris has been the PGA Livestock Committee Chairman since 2015 and has recently also taken on the role of PGA Treasurer following a restructure of the organisation.

• He represents the PGA on the WA WoolTAG which coordinates shearer and woolhandler training and is the Chairman of this group.
• He also represents the PGA on numerous external committees, including being the Chairman of the National Wild Dog Action Plan Coordination Committee which means extensive travel across Australia.
• Outside of the PGA, Chris is also Chairman of the Central Wheatbelt Biosecurity Association which coordinates wild dog and feral pig control over 4 shires.

As with all PGA roles, the work is entirely voluntary which means he can represent the members without fear or favour. Chris sees a bright future for the PGA and following the recent restructure the organisation will be stepping up its advocacy for members.