Award recognises farm biosecurity excellence
Are you a farmer who is passionate about fending off pests and eliminating disease? Or do you know a farmer who is at the forefront of keeping Australia pest- and disease-free?
Then you can nominate for the 2011 Biosecurity Farmer of the Year, but you’ll need to be quick; nominations close on Monday July 18, 2011.
The Biosecurity Farmer of the Year Awards are part of the Australian Farmer of the Year Awards co-hosted by Kondinin Group and ABC Rural, with separate awards up for grabs in the categories of plant biosecurity and animal biosecurity.
Supported by Plant Health Australia and Animal Health Australia, the Australian Farmer of the Year Awards showcase the professional, innovative and sustainable approach of today’s agricultural producers and, in particular, recognise farmers demonstrating best-practice on-farm biosecurity management.
With biosecurity vital to the profitability, sustainability and trading future of Australia’s agricultural industries, we want to celebrate the key role being played by Australian farmers in preserving a disease- and pest-free environment.
The 2010 plant Biosecurity Farmer of the Year, Kununurra fruit and vegetable grower Lachlan Dobson, said winning the award had helped him increase awareness about the importance of biosecurity.
“The accolade opened up new doors of opportunity to not only continue improving biosecurity practices within my own operation but also to keep spreading the biosecurity message.”
Mr Dobson’s rigorous on-farm biosecurity practices include ensuring all farm entrants, including staff, abide by the highest farm hygiene standards. Over more than a decade he has mobilised community support for biosecurity across the Ord River Irrigation Area and was a leader in the development of the Western Australian Banana Industry Biosecurity Plan.
“Keeping Australia free of further pest and disease incursions is crucial to the longevity of Australian agriculture – we cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to biosecurity,” Mr Dobson said.
2010 animal Biosecurity Farmer of the Year and Wool Producer of the Year Michael Blake, from Victoria, said he entered the competition when he was nominated by a local agriculture officer.
“It is a great feeling to be recognised by your peers for your efforts,” Mr Blake said.
Mr Blake, whose external parasite control program means he no longer uses chemicals on his flock, said the prize had enabled him to share his biosecurity experience.
“Over the years I have been dedicated to trying new and innovative ideas and processes – and it’s something I enjoy sharing with others for the overall benefit of the Australian agricultural industry.”
Both 2010 winners urged farmers to put modesty aside and enter the Biosecurity Farmer of the Year awards.
“The award process is very worthwhile. It allowed me to meet with like-minded people and to expand my networks within the industry,” Mr Dobson said.
“And most importantly, the awards are ensuring biosecurity remains a priority issue on the industry’s agenda.”
Mr Blake said demonstrating successful biosecurity practices were not only part of responsible farming – it could also be great for business.
“Awards such as these are invaluable tools for marketing your products.”
The awards promote a positive image of Australian farmers, encouraging people to take on agriculture as a career choice.
Nominations opened on Wednesday, June 1 and close on Monday, July 18.
To nominate or find out more information, visit www.kondiningroup.com.au or contact
Kondinin Group on 1800 677 761.
The Australian Farmer of the Year Awards are co-hosted by Kondinin Group and ABC Rural and supported by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, RIRDC, Rabobank, Animal Health Australia and Plant Health Australia, AWI, Elders and GRDC.
2011 Farmer of the Year Award categories
Biosecurity Farmer of the Year – Plant Health Australia and Animal Health Australia
Click here to download the nomination form.
Farmer of the Year – Kondinin Group/ABC Rural
Click here to download the nomination form.
Farmer Industry Leader of the Year – Rabobank
Click here to download the nomination form.
Diversification Farmer of the Year – RIRDC
Click here to download the nomination form.
Grain Grower of the Year – GRDC
Click here to download the nomination form.
Wool Producer of the Year – AWI
Click here to download the nomination form.
Livestock Producer of the Year – Elders
Click here to download the nomination form.
Young Farmer of the Year – Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Click here to download the nomination form.
Nominations open Wednesday, June 1 and close Monday, July 18.
To nominate or find out more information, visit www.kondiningroup.com.au
or contact Kondinin Group on 1800 677 761.
The Awards dinner will be held on Wednesday September 7, 2011 at the Westin Hotel, Sydney.
