Hemp-based health food company Elixinol Wellness has officially appointed Natalie Butler as its chief executive officer, a role she had been performing in practice for the previous 15 months in her capacity as executive director.
Butler took on a broader remit and joined the board in March of the prior year following the exit of former CEO Ron Dufficy.
Elixinol described Butler as having been "instrumental in leading the business" throughout that period.
"Natalie's leadership through a complex period has been outstanding and the board has the full confidence in her ability to execute our strategic priorities," chairman David Fenlon said.
In a separate development, Elixinol disclosed that chief financial officer Josephine Lorenz0 has resigned after seven years at the company.
She has been succeeded by seasoned finance executive Adam Dimitropoulos, who the company said brings a background in "M&A, strategic planning, capital allocation and financial governance".
Aurora Cannabis/MedReleaf Australia
Aurora Cannabis, the Canadian parent of MedReleaf Australia, has reported record FY2025 results, pointing to growing international demand across several markets, including Australia.
International medical cannabis revenue was up 41% year-on-year, with the company citing solid performance across its primary markets.
Aurora did not break out specific figures for MedReleaf, though it said international operations continued to deliver "strong year-over-year growth" driven by higher patient demand and expanded market share.
At the group level, Aurora's net revenue grew 39% to C$244.4 million (A$273.2m), adjusted EBITDA jumped 261% to C$49.7 million (A$55.8m), and free cash flow moved into positive territory at C$9.9m (A$11.1m).
The company closed the year holding C$185.3 million (A$207.9M) in cash and carrying no cannabis-related debt.
InhaleRx
InhaleRx has been awarded a research and development tax rebate of $402,000 for FY24, with the company anticipating an additional $88,000 following the lodgement of an amended return for the 2023 financial year.
The proceeds will go mainly toward working capital, with a portion used to partially repay amounts drawn under its $38.5 million funding facility with Clendon Biotech Capital.
Office of Drug Control
The Office of Drug Control (ODC) has launched a regular newsletter to keep industry participants informed about its work and activities.
The ODC said the publication is intended to "share insights, foster transparency and support our ongoing collaboration".
To subscribe to the newsletter click here.
Tilray
Former Cannatrek executive Adam Kramer has been named director of Tilray Medical Australia, taking over from Jonathan Trodden, who left the position in May.
Kramer brings senior experience from across the medicinal cannabis and broader healthcare industries.
The appointment follows Tilray's moves to reshape its regional footprint, having recently withdrawn from the New Zealand market while continuing to operate in Australia.
