Citrus Australia Ltd (CAL) has elected its board and established itself as the new peak industry body in the fortnight since the group was established.

Judith Damiani from Australian Citrus Growers Inc was carried over as CEO of CAL, and Kevin Cock was appointed as chairman.

The group has begun discussions with Horticulture Australia Ltd on partnerships in citrus research and development and marketing levy programmes. The discussions also include a development plan.

CAL also signed up with Plant Health Australia under the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed.

“We have unanimously agreed to move straight into stakeholder engagement to assist us in confirming the industry’s priorities and the most effective structure to push forward as quickly as possible,” said chairman Kevin Cock in a press release.

'Of course the Citrus Australia Board recognises the challenging issues facing growers today, but it also embraces the opportunities the Australian citrus industry can capture with a growing Australian and global consumer base, new varieties and a strong export focus.”

Citrus growers can join the new organisation through theirwebsite.