From Robinvale Roots to National Horticulture Leadership
For 7 Worlds Ag team member Will, horticulture isn’t just a career, it’s in his blood. Growing up in Robinvale, Victoria, as part of a third-generation farming family, Will’s journey into the industry felt like a natural progression. Now, just six years after graduating from the University of Melbourne, he’s making a national impact as 7 Worlds Key Account Manager.
A Family Legacy in Farming
Will’s family farm has deep roots in the Sunraysia region in Victoria. His grandfather, Ron Jury, was granted a 10-hectare soldier settler block after World War II and spent decades growing dried fruit, wine grapes, and table grapes. Over the years, the family shifted their focus to table grapes, exporting premium varieties like Thompson Seedless, Crimson Seedless, and Red Globe to markets in China and South-East Asia.
“It was idyllic growing up on the family farm in Robinvale,” Will recalls. “Helping Dad after school and during the holidays while Mum pursued her teaching career gave me a firsthand understanding of the challenges and rewards of farming. Those experiences really ignited my passion for horticulture.”
Pursuing a Career in Agriculture
After attending boarding school at St Patrick’s College in Ballarat, Will had no hesitation in choosing his university path. In 2016, he enrolled in a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne, majoring in agricultural economics.
“I knew from the start that I wanted to work in horticulture,” he says. “Broadacre farming, dairying, or livestock weren’t for me, horticulture had always been my passion.”
Joining 7 Worlds Ag | A Career on the Rise
After graduating in 2018, Will joined Grochem Australia, which has since rebranded to 7 Worlds Ag. The company’s reputation for innovation and its focus on speciality horticultural solutions made it the perfect fit.
“Starting at Grochem was an exciting opportunity. It was a small, dynamic company specialising in crop protection, trapping systems, and cutting-edge horticultural technology. The team’s enthusiasm and expertise were inspiring.”
Over the years, Will has managed customers across Victoria and Tasmania, building strong relationships with growers and rural retailers. Now, as Key Account Manager, he’s expanding his reach across Australia, working closely with 7 Worlds Ag CEO Ben Coombe to strengthen the company’s national presence.
“Horticulture is such a diverse industry, with every crop having unique needs and challenges,” Will shared. “I’m looking forward to learning even more and helping growers optimise their operations.”
Industry Engagement and Continued Growth
Will’s hands-on approach keeps him actively involved in the industry. He recently attended the Australian Almond Conference in Adelaide, alongside colleagues Melanie Turner and Orville Hildebrand, where they connected with researchers and growers to explore the latest advancements in pollination, water efficiency, and crop management.
7 Worlds Ag CEO, Ben Coombe, has no doubt that Will’s promotion is well deserved, sharing: “Will’s passion for horticulture and willingness to learn are first-class. Our customers enjoy working with him, and this role is a great opportunity for him to further support our grower and retailer network.”
A New Era for 7 Worlds Ag
The past six months have been a transformative period for 7 Worlds Ag, following the company’s rebrand from Grochem Australia. With a strong commitment to research, innovation, and sustainability, the company continues to develop solutions that enhance productivity while protecting the environment.
“Our product range now includes over 70 solutions, from fungicides and insecticides to growth regulators, pheromones, and monitoring systems,” Ben explains. “We’re proud to support growers across Australia with cutting-edge technology and expert advice.”
Will’s journey is just one example of the expertise and dedication driving 7 Worlds Ag forward. As he takes on this new role, the future looks bright, not just for him, but for the growers and partners he supports every day.