Mr Joyce hails from a family farm at Kukerin and is looking forward to his new role.

AGT commenced a breeding program in WA, led by Kevin Young, in 2002.

This was followed by the formation of a formal breeding partnership with COGGO in 2005.

AGT launched the varieties Espada, Gladius and Axe in WA in 2008 and it was also at this time that AGT launched its novel Seed Sharing model, which facilitates legal trade of seed amongst WA growers.

In 2009 AGT launched the new high-yielding variety Mace, which is now eligible for the AH grade, and the longer season frost management variety Fang both in mid 2009.

In late 2009 AGT and GrainPool jointly announced the launch of AGT Katana, which will be marketed directly into premium bread markets in Asia with the aim of delivering higher returns to WA growers.

In his new role Mr Joyce will provide a link between breeder, grower and industry.

"It’s an exciting time to join AGT particularly with their targeted development of high yielding varieties and unique quality types suitable for the West," he said.

"I’m looking forward to working with growers to help them get the best out of their cropping programs."