A trained nurse, Ann Lyster married into an orchardist family and became deeply involved in the industry with husband Maurie and son Tim and his family. As chair of the Sustainable Rural Development Group (a DAFWA reference group), Ms Lyster undertook a study tour of the United States and Europe investigating catchment management, agri-tourism, community supported agriculture and sustainable land development. Appreciating the importance of export marketing, she has also visited overseas markets in Asia, Europe and the Middle East to understand their needs and preferences, and is one of just a handful of WA growers actively exporting apples. Ms Lyster was instrumental in establishing the Manjimup Farmers Markets, has held leadership roles in APC Producers’ Committees, and is an inaugural director of Fruit West Cooperative.