Welcoming a new Patron: Dr Tony Gregson AM

August 21, 2026

The Crawford Fund for Food Security is immensely proud to announce that Dr Tony Gregson AM has been appointed a Patron of the organisation.

“Since 2016, the Crawford Fund has appointed distinguished Patrons to the Fund – individuals who have made significant contributions within the fields of agricultural development and global food security,” said Shaun Coffey, Chief Executive, the Crawford Fund for Food Security.

“By naming them Patrons, the Fund hopes to recognise these individuals for their past contributions and continue to benefit from their outstanding records. All of our Patrons have shown continued support for, and interest in, the Fund and international agricultural research for development well beyond their official roles with the organisation,” he said.

“Tony joins a select cohort of Patrons and former Patrons, with just six individuals selected for this honour,” said Shaun.

The Hon Neil Andrew AO and The Hon Margaret Reid AO are current patrons, while former patrons are The Hon John Kerin AO, Mr James (“Jim”) Ingram AO and The Hon Tim Fischer AC.

A very well-respected grain grower and active community member from Victoria’s Wimmera region with an extensive science and corporate research management background, Tony became the Victorian Committee Chair and Member of the Board in 2001. He brought immense experience and passion to the role, having served on the Boards of Plant HeaIth Australia, CSIRO, GRDC, ANSTO and three Cooperative Research Centres amongst others.

As successful as his career was in Australia, he also contributed significantly globally, through his leadership on the Boards of CIMMYT, the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (which became Bioversity International) and the CGIAR. And, from 2014 to 2017, he served on the ACIAR Commission for International Agricultural Research providing strategic advice to the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs to improve food security and sustainable livelihoods particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

“After 25 years as a Director of the Crawford Fund Board, and Chairman of the Crawford Fund Victoria Committee, Tony recently stepped down from these roles. As a newly anointed Patron, and a continuing member of the Crawford Fund for Victoria Committee, we are grateful that his friendship, expertise and counsel remain a valuable resource for the Crawford Fund,” he concluded.

Congratulations Dr Gregson!