Honouring NRI’s Dedication to Leadership & Growth
At the Cultivate and Connect Conference Gala Dinner in November 2025, NRI celebrated the retirement of two of its most influential board directors, Lachlan McDonald and Phil Green, honouring their extraordinary contributions to the organisation’s growth, values, and enduring success.
Both leaders have played pivotal roles in shaping NRI, and their retirement from the board marks the end of an era defined by passion, dedication, and remarkable achievement.
Before the speeches, Neil Earl, NRI’s past Chairman, took to the stage to share heartfelt words about each director, praising both Lachlan and Phil for their unwavering commitment to NRI and the invaluable contributions they have made over the years. His warm introduction set the tone for a memorable evening of reflection and gratitude.
Lachlan McDonald A Visionary Leader
Lachlan McDonald’s remarkable 23 year tenure on the NRI board includes two years as Chairman and ten years as Deputy Chairman, spanning the entire existence of the organisation. His journey with NRI began in 1988 when he co-founded McDonald Rural Services with his wife, Ingrid, after working as an animal health company representative.
Lachlan’s vision for independent business was clear from the start, an organisation built on transparency, direct supplier relationships, and the sharing of wealth with shareholders. That vision ultimately led him to co-found NRI.
Neil highlighted Lachlan’s instrumental role in the formation of NRI. Despite significant challenges in the early days, his resilience and commitment to the company’s core values helped NRI find its footing. Key suppliers came on board, and what started as a business running at a net loss became profitable within two years. NRI has consistently paid dividends ever since, a testament to the strong foundation Lachlan helped build.
In his speech, Lachlan reflected on what made NRI’s growth possible.
The business we built in Coleraine and Balmoral thrived because of the partnerships and friendships we formed. It’s essential to maintain the camaraderie and networking that have been the cornerstone of NRI’s success.
Neil closed his tribute by thanking Lachlan on behalf of all shareholders and NRI’s supply partners: “Thank you for your foresight, your resilience, and most importantly, your tenacity in ensuring that NRI not only survived but thrived. Your original mandate, creating shareholder wealth, is still alive and well.”
Phil Green a Calm and Insightful Leader
Phil Green’s decade-long journey with NRI began with a memorable first board meeting in China, hosted by FMC. Neil shared a lighthearted story about losing Phil in a crowd in Nanjing a playful nod to Phil’s unassuming presence and humble nature. Yet despite maintaining a low profile, Phil’s impact on the board was anything but small.
His calm, steady approach was a genuine asset, helping to distil complex discussions into clear, actionable decisions. Neil praised Phil for his ability to guide the board towards consensus, often playing a quiet but vital role in shaping the organisation’s direction.
Beyond NRI, Phil’s career highlights included successfully exiting his business, Northern AG in Booleroo Centre, which he ran with the same dedication and strategic thinking he brought to the board. He was also recognised as the Bowls Singles Champion at Booleroo Centre a reflection of his competitive spirit and community involvement.
Now in full retirement, Phil is looking forward to new adventures, including exploring the country with a new caravan.
In his farewell speech, Phil captured his pride simply and honestly: “The highlight of my 50 years was taking over a store as an owner-operator, which was mentally stimulating and financially gratifying. Joining NRI was a sound business decision that improved our bottom line significantly.”
A Legacy of Passion and Dedication
The Gala Dinner was both a celebration of Lachlan’s and Phil’s careers and a reflection of their profound impact on NRI. Their combined dedication, vision, and resilience have shaped the company into what it is today, and the legacy they leave behind will continue to inspire.
Looking Ahead
While the evening marked a poignant farewell, it also highlighted the exciting future ahead for NRI. Two new directors Brad Foster (Bawdens Rural) and Troy Gangell (Gangells Ag Solutions) are joining the board, bringing fresh perspectives and a wealth of experience. Building on the solid foundation established by Lachlan and Phil, NRI is well positioned to continue growing in the years to come.