Who are the authors of this Briefing Paper?

Who Is Gordon Stone?

Gordon has operated in the Agri business sector since 1991 and has Exceptional skills in strategy and business management. He has a diverse background, ranging from advising Agri corporations on establishing new business units, cheering smaller client management advisory boards, negotiating new customer relationships, to working with clients to develop business plans and Asik seen funds from lenders. His real skills and passion law in supporting smaller business owners in managing their businesses better and working closely with them to grow their businesses (to achieve their ‘grand plans’).

Who Is Dave Stone?

Dave has a diverse background across small to medium enterprise (SME) business capability development, increasing Indigenous and local business participation in supply chains, stakeholder engagement, business strategy and operations, project management and environmental management. He has worked with a range of clients, from small family business to global corporates, across resources, energy and power, government, agriculture and environment. He provides specialist advice to ABDI’s clients, and supports in delivery of its business development programs.

Who Is Ted Parish?

With over 30 years of experience in Australian agriculture, including senior roles at MLA, AAMIG, and in government departments, Ted Parish brings deep strategic and practical expertise to ABDI.

His background spans livestock marketing, agribusiness, and public service, including Treasury and Agriculture. He is a skilled communicator and project manager, with strengths in WHS, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and driving R&D adoption across the sector.

Ted is known for delivering results, building strong partnerships, and his clear understanding of agribusiness challenges—particularly where industry and government intersect.