MALCOLM Sargent, a farmer from Crystal Brook, South Australia, and John Heap, a weeds researcher at SARDI, were announced as the joint recipients of the first SPAA (Precision Agriculture Australia) Life membership awards.
The pair were recognised at a gala dinner in Clare held as part of the 10 year celebrations of the farming system group.
SPAA president Neale Postlethwaite, alongside first executive officer Rohan Rainbow, presented the awards to Mr Sargent and Dr Heap.
Mr Postlethwaite said both were deserving recipients and were nominated by fellow precision agriculture members and supporters.
“Both Malcolm and John are worthy of this honour, and it’s fitting to recognise these precision agriculture champions, not only in the Year of the Farmer, but also in the year SPAA celebrates its 10th anniversary,” said Nicole Dimos, SPAA executive officer.
Both were instrumental in forming the organisation, after identifying a need to provide support in the extension and delivery of education in precision agriculture across Australia. Each received life membership to SPAA and a plaque to commemorate their achievements.
Mr Sargent said that he was very pleased to have received "such a significant award" in recognition of his efforts. “To me, this award celebrates the great partnerships that SPAA has formed with its members and stakeholders,” he said.
The award recognises individuals who have demonstrated a remarkable and ongoing commitment to the SPAA and enhanced its standing within its membership and the wider community, and a commitment that does not seek personal reward.
