Keeping in touch with former work mates
The association was established in 2001 and held its first AGM in March 2002. Membership is currently about 200 and includes former scientific, technical and administration staff.
The association’s name reflects the department’s title at incorporation. The committee, with DPIRD’s support, is working to reinstate a process whereby retiring employees are advised of the association’s existence and the opportunity to join. The association is also contacting as many former Agriculture WA employees as possible who have resigned or retired since 2015-16 to offer them the opportunity to join the association.
Meetings and activities
A typical year’s program includes:
- lunch at a hotel that in recent years has been at the Herdsman Lake Tavern in February or March
- a winter gathering around June, sometimes outside Perth
- an annual general meeting (AGM) in October.
The association also endeavours to advise members of industry events that may interest them as well as significant departmental changes and member updates.
Through a recent initiative with DPIRD, association members are eligible to participate as volunteer mentors in the Primary Industries Development (PID) Scientist Mentoring Program. This provides an opportunity for ex-employees to maintain a semi-formal connection with the department and make an ongoing contribution to the capacity and development of department staff.
The association's AGM and lunch is usually held mid-to-late October to socialise and to elect the committee. The association also normally invites a guest speaker to address attendees on a topical subject.
Partners are welcome at events and around 40 to 50 people usually attend.
Download previous newsletters for an overview of the association's recent activities.
Newsletters and other member notifications are distributed by email.
Become a member
Lifetime membership to the association costs $25, payable by direct bank transfer.
Download an application form and email your completed form to the secretary.
Membership includes invitations to social events, emailed newsletters and other current information.
For more information email the association secretary.