WHO WE ARE
The Speak Up Campaign originated in 2015 as a Facebook Page to highlight the important role water plays in food production and rural communities. Bringing to attention the positive outcomes derived from irrigated agriculture, including ecological outcomes.
Within a few months a full media campaign was developed to increase the education messaging - highlighting the adverse social, economic and ecological impacts the implementation of the Murray Darling Basin Plan was causing.
During this journey our role has broadened as we have brought together many communities across the Southern Basin (predominately) for numerous rallies, protests and other events. The most recent event we helped coordinate was the Convoy to Canberra, which had supporters from outside the Murray Darling Basin helping support our case.
Our aim is to be a voice for the grassroots. We want transparency around water management decisions and the implementation of the Basin plan.
Our vision is to have vibrant rural communities working in harmony with their local environment, where locals are key to decision making.
Basin Communities want a Basin Plan that delivers for communities, the environment and food security.
OUR TEAM
David Farley - Chair
David Farley joins Speak Up with a lifetime of experience in the agricultural and agribusiness sector. Raised in the Riverina of NSW - Narrandera, he was immersed in agriculture from an early age, influenced by his family’s ownership of an agricultural services, machinery, fertiliser, and chemical supplies business.
With extensive experience in operating, managing, and directing farms, processing facilities, ASX listed agribusiness companies and large farmer Co-Operatives within the agricultural arena, David has developed a profound understanding of the industry's complexities and governing polices.
David’s involvement in water reform initiatives in Australia, California ,Arizona , Sudan, and FSU has provided him with firsthand insight into the challenges farmers and communities face due to policy issues that affect their capacity to grow food and build food security into a nation’s food supply chain.
David is passionate about fostering a healthy and prosperous Australia, advocating for leadership that is equipped with the skills, tenacity, and courage to make and challenge policy decisions.
David’s dedication lies in safeguarding our food-growing capacity and food security for future generations.