James McShane the new Sprout board director

Retired sheep and cattle farmer James McShane is the new chair of the Sprout Tasmania board.

Mr McShane, who has also held senior advisory roles within the state government, said he was proud to be part of the organisation that helps small-scale Tasmanian farmers.

He believed that Sprout Tasmania punched above its weight when it came to advocacy.

“Small-scale farmers have similar challenges to large-scale farmers, but also more specific and unique challenges that need to be addressed,” Mr McShane said.

“Being on the Sprout allows me to help small-scale farmers achieve what they need to.

“Our small-scale farmers are doing a lot of heavy lifting by providing locally grown food that meets the values that a lot of consumers want out of their food – ethically sourced, safe to eat and highly nutritious food.”

Mr McShane ran the wool farm Rotherwood in the Southern Midlands before selling the property and stepping back from farming altogether.

“We reached a point where we needed to change direction from a mental health and family point of view.

“I loved farming for most of the years that I did it, but it’s a pretty tough gig.”

His attitude and drive for farming changed following his father’s death in 2014.

“When we decided to leave the farm it was a big decision, but it wasn’t hard,” Mr McShane said.

“I didn’t want to do it anymore and wanted to do other things.”

Right before the farm was sold, Mr McShane worked as an advisor in the Primary Industries Minsiter’s office, as well as sitting on the Board of TasFarmers.

“When the Sprout board position came up, I thought it would be a good opportunity for me to put my skills to good use,” he said.

“I feel that my combined skills and experience will be beneficial to Sprout.”