Grains industry saddened by loss of Geoff Honey

A prominent and widely respected grains industry identity, Mr Honey died after suffering a heart attack while bike-riding recently - his funeral is set to be held next week in Sydney.

He leaves behind three children and wife Lucy Broad who is also a well-known identity in the Australian agriculture sector, being a highly experienced journalist and working in strategic communications with Cox Inall Communications.

GTA Chair Peter Reading said there had been an incredible response throughout the industry at the shock news of Mr Honey’s passing, from grower groups, grain traders, bulk handling companies and government officials.

Mr Reading said people’s sympathies and thoughts were with Mr Honey’s family.

“It’s an extremely sad day, to lose Geoff who was a true gentleman and a real champion of the industry,” he said.

“It’s a great loss not only for Geoff’s family but also for the entire agricultural industry and there’s been a tremendous response from everyone.”

Mr Reading said Mr Honey also had a background working in the wool industry and in grain marketing risk management, before joining GTA in 2003.

Mr Honey also worked in various strategic positions advising government including the Wheat Industry Expert Group that assisted with providing advice on transitioning towards market deregulation in 2008.

Grain Producers Australia Chair Andrew Weidemann said he had developed a strong working relationship with Mr Honey over 15-years and had also received “tremendous support” during his early days representing growers.

“It’s a real shock to lose someone so young who was extremely fit,” he said.

“Geoff was always a strong supporter of the industry and passionate in the way he carried out his duties.”

Mr Weidemann said Mr Honey had worked hard at GTA to develop standards for grain trading and marketing, and improving market access, in the post-AWB single desk era, leaving a positive legacy.

The Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre CEO Richard Simonaitis said his group was saddened at the passing of Geoff Honey.

“The industry has lost a leader in Geoff,” he said.

“As CEO of Grain Trade Australia, Geoff took the organisation and made it into the peak body representing all the Trade at an industry level.

“He was widely respected as a person who could effect change.

“He discharged his duties in servicing his membership in a very effective and efficient manner.

“Our thoughts are with Geoff's family and his small team in Sydney at this time."