Mark Billing was elected during the online UDV annual meeting on May 28, and replaces John Keely who has held the role since 2018.

Mr Billing operates a dairy farm with his wife and four children, has been a UDV member for more than 35 years and recently served as the policy councillor for UDV Region 8.

He is also a national councillor for Australian Dairy Farmers, a CFA group officer, life member of Colac Baseball Club, was a Fonterra chairman from 2012 to 2017, and WestVic Dairy director for three years.

VFF chief executive Jane Lovell welcomed the appointment and acknowledged the strong calibre of candidates put before UDV voters.

“I would like to acknowledge Ian Morris for his interest in the role and to the many UDV members who voted and ensured this voice was heard,” Ms Lovell said.

She also paid tribute to the outgoing Mr Keely.

“John has contributed a huge amount while in the role of UDV vice-president over the past three years, and before that in his nine years on UDV policy council.

“I would like to thank him for this and the positive impact he’s made on the Victorian dairy industry during this time.”

Mr Billing is passionate about utilising UDV members to help position the dairy industry for the future.