The Australian Vegetable Industry Awards, proudly brought to you by AUSVEG, highlight the achievements of the great people within our industry.
The Australian vegetable industry held its first conference and awards dinner in 2006, with both events attracting significant industry support.
Following these successful debuts, an equally successful conference and awards dinner was held in May 2007.
In 2008, the awards presentation was held at the Vegetables WA 60th Anniversary Dinner in Perth on 31 May.
Since their introduction, the awards have been presented annually at a significant industry event, and 2009 was no exception. The 2009 Vegetable Industry Awards were presented at the gala dinner of the Australian Vegetable Industry Conference on Wednesday 6 May 2009 at the Crown Palladium, Melbourne.
The Australian Vegetable Industry Awards aim to:
- Identify and reward excellence across the Australian vegetable industry
- Help unite the industry
- Demonstrate and share achievements and successful, innovative farming practices with the wider vegetable industry
- Promote Australian vegetable industry excellence to the broader Australian community
Award Categories
Landini Grower of the Year
The Landini Grower of the Year award recognises outstanding practices across many aspects of vegetable production, including growing, environmental management, staff management and product quality.
Growers short-listed for this award have shown to be innovators in their field and active contributors to the broader industry.
"The best Australian vegetable grower sets a fine example to all growers, through excellence in vegetable production and also by actively contributing to the industry, and we are proud to acknowledge their achievements", said Landini Tractors General Manager, Doug Robinson.
Landini Grower of the Year is open to all vegetable growers in Australia.Landmark Young Grower of the Year
The Landmark Young Grower of the Year is awarded to a vegetable grower under the age of 35 who has shown excellent business acumen and innovation in his/her chosen area of vegetable production. Shortlisted finalists have shown a high level of initiative in their approach to business and are recognised for their commitment to industry.
The grower must have sought opportunities for self development and have the potential to play a lead role in the Australian vegetable industry's future.
Landmark National Category Manager AgChemical, Rob Hart said, "Landmark is pleased to help young Australian growers develop to their full potential, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to horticulture beyond providing quality products and services".
Syngenta Researcher of the Year
The Syngenta Researcher of the Year award acknowledges scientists with extensive portfolios in research and development (R&D). It recognises their dedication to promoting knowledge and understanding in the vegetable industry, and their contribution to the international status of Australian science.
This researcher must actively communicate their work to growers and encourage uptake of research outcomes on-farm. Their research or extension work must advance the reputation of Australian science internationally.
Syngenta Australasia General Manager, Paul Luxton said, "As a globally dedicated agricultural company Syngenta is committed to further discovery and development of new molecules, solutions and innovations for the horticultural sector. We see our involvement with local researchers as fundamental to tailoring our global solutions to the Australian environment. It therefore gives Syngenta great pleasure to sponsor the Researcher of the Year Award."
Short-listed finalists for this award have a demonstrated track record of research or extension work that has contributed to long-term industry benefit.
Brisbane Produce Market Innovative Marketing Award
The Brisbane Produce Market Innovative Marketing Award recognises individuals or businesses who, in the past three years, have created new market opportunities for vegetables or vegetable products through innovative marketing concepts. Short-listed finalists have challenged traditional perceptions of marketing and had a significant impact on the broader industry.
"Horticulture is advancing at a rapid pace in Australia due to the commitment and innovative contribution of people and organisations who have created opportunities for themselves and for others to tread," said Brisbane Markets Chief Executive Officer Andrew Young.
This award recognises the dedication and leadership that is required to turn a good idea into a solution, product, process or program that has great benefit to advancing the vegetable industry.
AUSVEG Industry Recognition Award
The AUSVEG Industry Recognition Award recognises consistent individual contributions and commitment to the greater good and advancement of the industry. Short-listed finalists have exemplified the qualities that make them champions of their field in the vegetable industry.
"As the industry’s national peak body, AUSVEG is proud to be able to acknowledge and reward those who use their leadership qualities for the betterment of the Australian vegetable industry," said John Brent, interim Chairman, AUSVEG.
