98.85% of the total shareholder votes cast were in support of the capital return proposal, which was set out in the Notice of Meeting for the Special Meeting.
Prior to this role, René was a member of the Fonterra Management Team as Managing Director Global Consumer and Foodservice.
Commissioning of the new line is planned for early 2027, with first product expected off the line in April 2027.
The new South Island recruitment of farmers interested in converting as well as existing organic farms will initially focus on those located around Southland and up to the Canterbury region.
Stuart takes the reins from Lockington farmer, Paul Weller, who served as FASC Chair from April 2024 – October 2025. Paul continues in the role of FASC Regional Director for Northern Victoria.