James brings a rare combination of practical farming experience, strategic leadership and a deep understanding of Tasmania’s agricultural sector. Coming from a family of farmers, he has built a career spanning primary production, agricultural innovation, industry leadership and senior advisory roles within the Tasmanian Government. Throughout that time, he has remained committed to supporting resilient farming businesses and thriving regional communities.

James is passionate about strengthening opportunities for Tasmania’s diverse farming sector, and his collaborative, practical approach makes him an outstanding leader as Sprout continues to grow its impact across the state.

Connie and her family relocated from Lake Macquarie to the Huon Valley in 2023, where they are fortunate enough to support a range of local growers and small producers. 
Alongside her husband, she runs a preservation-focused arboriculture business, reinforcing her commitment to environmental care. Connie’s professional role in strategic land use planning focuses on strategy, policy, and legislation, while her expertise in community engagement is grounded in a deep respect for community and place. 

In joining the Sprout Board, Connie hopes to use her multidisciplinary skills to advocate for resilient food systems and the values and aspirations of Tasmania’s small-scale farmers and the communities they provide for.

Josh joined the Sprout Board in 2024, motivated by a desire to get involved in the world of small-scale producers and to support building resilient local food systems in Tasmania. He brings a strong grounding in strategy and finance, and is passionate about helping purpose-led organisations grow sustainably and stay true to their values.

Growing up in WA, Josh moved to Hobart in 2016 to pursue opportunities in renewable energy and immediately fell in love with the landscape and people. His career has spanned renewable energy finance, corporate finance, advisory, strategy & sustainability, and corporate development across a range of industries both in Tasmania and on the mainland.

Outside of work, he gets his weekly veggie fix from a local CSA and has plans to tend his own patch of soil in the not-too-distant future, alongside his partner Bonnie and their two border collies. As Treasurer, Josh supports Sprout’s financial sustainability and strategic direction, helping ensure we can continue to advocate for, connect, and empower the producers who grow food for their communities.

Ellen brings a valuable combination of policy experience, community connection and a strong commitment to Tasmania’s food and farming sector. With a research background in ecology and climate change, Ellen has a keen interest in future-proofing our agricultural systems from climate change and helping the agricultural sector to work with nature.

Through her work as an environmental policy advocate, Ellen drives the alignment of farming with conservation and exploring ways that our primary industries can work for nature. With experience in political and strategic advice, as well as ecological research and her deep ties to the Huon Valley, she has developed a genuine understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing regional communities and primary industries.

Passionate about collaboration and practical outcomes, Ellen is committed to supporting resilient farming businesses and thriving local communities. Her thoughtful perspective and strong regional connections make her a wonderful addition to the Sprout Board as we continue to support Tasmania’s diverse farming sector.