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VALE MARION GIBBINS - 6^th OCTOBER 2016

The Merino World was greatly saddened following the passing of our close friend and mentor Marion Gibbins.

Marion grew up on the family's commercial and stud Merino property at Gringegalgona, in Victoria's Western District, where her passion for the industry was established.

Marion held positions as Executive Secretary of the Victorian Stud Merino Breeders Association, Elders Stud Sire Evaluation Coordinator, Wool Market Linkages secretary, Australia Wool Growers Association Director, Australian Sheep and Wool Show Committee and Secretary of the Horsham Agricultural Society.

Marion held the position as AASMB Chief Executive from 2013 to March this year, where she spearheaded the association's restructure and modernisation of online registrations. She was awarded honorary lifetime membership of the AASMB in March 2016 for her tireless work and dedication to the Merino industry.

Her contribution to the industry included involvement in farming, financial management, stud recording, sire evaluation, data management for trials and stud clients, training and education, stud Merino breeder administration at state and national level and Top Stud consultancy.

Marion loved working one on one with stud breeders throughout Australia whether it was on data collection or consulting on farm. She loved being part of all these organisations, working with stud breeders at the state and national level and found this most rewarding.

Breeders from all over the country were privileged to make her acquaintance and benefit from her expertise.

Marion was a truly remarkable lady, the Merino family has lost one of its best. Marion was a wonderful colleague and friend to all. She will be so sadly missed.

Our sincere sympathies to Adrian, Nicholas, Tamara, James and the Silcock Families at this tragic time.

VSMSBA has formed an alliance partnership with WFI insurance

In order to maintain a viable and sustainable Association we have recently been looking to other potential income sources. One such opportunity has recently arisen with Wesfarmers General Insurance Ltd (WFI) for the VSMSBA to enter into an Alliance Partnership

This is based on a “mere referrer” type arrangement - we have no part in the insurance arrangements that are structured with individual clients beyond the initial referral.

This means that any VSMSBA member who takes out insurance with WFI can, by nominating this organisation as the recipient have the commission on that insurance paid to the VSMSBA. This does not mean that the commission will be added to your current premium - it means that WFI are prepared to give the VSMSBA a percentage of the stated premium.

There is definitely no compulsion for members to change or alter arrangements that they have to suit their purposes and budgets but if you are interested we would encourage you next time your insurances are due to seek a quote from WFI.

All clients will deal direct with their local Area Manager - local reps can be located by ringing 1300 934 934 or accessing the WFI website www.wfi.com.au