Anita Chennell
B AppSci (Ag Science), GradDip Marketing, Diploma of Business
Program Manager
Anita currently manages AHR’s Protected Cropping Program, working closely with industry, research, and commercial partners to deliver this large-scale, government and commercial-funded innovation program.
Based on a cattle grazing property in regional Victoria, Anita brings over 30 years’ experience across agriculture and horticulture production systems, combining strong project management capability with a practical, collaborative leadership style.
She has led and coordinated research programs focused on postharvest handling, packaging and storage to improve shelf life and market performance for domestic and export supply chains. Anita has also developed and delivered industry training and extension programs, working closely with growers and researchers to translate research into practical on-farm outcomes. Her experience spans a wide range of horticultural sectors including cherries, fresh-cut salads, herbs, food safety, IPM and protected cropping, alongside export market development, supply chain analysis and improvement initiatives.
Her background also includes leading not-for-profit regional community and resilience programs, bringing a strong understanding of community engagement and regional needs. She is known for leading complex, multi-partner initiatives, driving innovative approaches, and building trusted relationships that transform complex projects into practical outcomes for industry.