Industry to farewell dedicated leader

CANEGROWERS has wished long-time Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) chief executive Greg Beashel a wonderful retirement following today’s announcement that he would step down from the role of CEO and Managing Director on 30 June.

“Greg has been a tremendous servant to the industry during his time with QSL, especially while being in the top job,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.

“He has always been approachable, and willing to partner with the growing sector of the industry and has been a great advocate for the Australian sugarcane industry at international level through his leading roles with both The Global Alliance and the Australian Sugar Industry Alliance.”

“Gregs legacy of navigating QSL through challenging times, while ensuring the organisation remained a highly respected and competitive marketer of Australian sugar within an increasingly competitive environment, is something he should be very proud of.”

After more than two decades at Queensland’s largest sugar marketer, 12 of those in the top job, Mr Beashel leaves big shoes for his successor Mark Hampson to fill, Mr Menkens said.

“After 24 years in the industry, Greg takes with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be hard to replace.

“I congratulate Mark on his appointment to the CEO and Managing Director role. He has some pretty big shoes to fill, but I congratulate him and given our already strong relationship with Mark I am confident he will be ready to make a positive contribution to the industry as an important leader when Greg retires in June.

“On behalf of growers, I wish Greg all the best with his retirement. After more 20 years in what I am sure was often a high-pressure role, he definitely deserves a break.”