MIG has a dedicated group of professional staff who work hard to provide outstanding research and development, environmental and educational opportunities for the MIG membership.
The MIG staff work in conjunction with farmers, consultants and local industries, state and national government bodies, as well as a variety of world-renowned researchers. This provides a dynamic and exciting workplace for MIG staff and helps to cement MIG’s place as leaders in agricultural excellence.
While the MIG staff dedicate a large amount time and effort to their work, they also play integral roles within their communities.
DEE MCKEOWN
Chief Executive Officer
Dee McKeown, Chief Executive Officer has a Bachelor of Accounting from the University of Ulster, since then he has worked in public practice servicing many farming clients as well as running a SME locally in more recent times. Growing up on farms he hopes to combine his passions and hopes to bring his business and accounting know-how to the agricultural sector through the many exciting projects at MIG.
Dee will be assisting MIG Program Managers and Executive officer with Program Management, Project budget reviews and development, managing the office and equipment, and behind the scenes administration along with getting out and about to help the team on the ground when needed.
“There is no standing still in todays ag sector, we need to be developing and growing or we will get left behind. Todays research is tomorrows result in the paddock.”
SHANNAH KANNY
Trials Officer
0409 751 586
Shannah grew up between her families farming operations in Walkaway and pastoral property. She is not new to the area, working in Irwin for multiple years, and started her career right out of school here at MIG in the 2018 harvest. You’ll see Shannah out and about in the paddock, working in both trials and projects.
“My favourite thing about agriculture is that it is constantly changing and adapting, and the passion in this industry is hard to find anywhere else.”
JACQUI MEARES
Project Officer
0427 281 001
Jacqui is a born and raised Dongara girl with plenty of ties to Mingenew. Some may recognise her from her many years in the sample hut at CBH or from the Community Resource Centre. Jacqui has a Bachelor of Science and experience in the agricultural industry working in R&D, broadacre and livestock sectors. Jacqui will be focusing her time on projects and supporting Shannah with trials.
“I’ve got an enthusiastic attitude for research and development and am looking forward to working with the growers in our region.”
MICHELLE ABBOTT
Finance Officer
Michelle Abbott has worked part time for MIG since March 2018 as the Finance Officer. Michelle’s roles includes accounts receivable and payable, payroll, budgets and financial reporting.
Michelle lives in Mingenew with her husband and two children. They run a mixed farming enterprise of cropping and cattle.
“I feel very privileged to be a part of a business that supports and represents the Mingenew farming community .”
MONTANA BRADLEY
Administrative/ Technical Officer
0499 245 463
Montana grew up nearby in Geraldton. New to the agricultural industry, Montana is enthusiastic to learn, and is currently studying her diploma of agriculture. You will see Montana around the area, helping Shannah and Jacqui with all things R&D, and in the office helping with admin.
"Although I'm new to agriculture, I'm excited to broaden my knowledge and learn everything the Mingenew-Irwin area has to offer."
HELEN BLAKE
Communications Officer
Helen Blake works for MIG in a part time capacity as Communications Officer, assisting with essential sponsor and member communications, newsletters and marketing.
"Agriculture has been part of my childhood, shaped my career and is the foundation for the future of my family - I am proud and very fortunate to be living and working in such an essential industry. I love having the opportunity to be part of building a sustainable future, and particularly enjoy finding ways to communicate the nuances of our industry at a community level."