A NUMBER of South Australian vegetable growers, researchers and industry representatives have been named as finalists for the National Awards for Excellence.
The awards, which are the Australian horticultural industry’s top recognition will recognise those outstanding in their field next month in Brisbane.
Of the 10 categories, nine will be announced on Wednesday, June 20 at the Gala Dinner, with the Exporter of the Year award to be announced two days prior at the Export Symposium held during Hort Connections.
Hort Connections spokesperson Nathan McIntyre congratulated the nominees.
“All nominees for the different award categories have demonstrated their commitment to the Australian horticulture industry and have made a valuable contribution to ongoing growth and success,” he said.
Ausveg SA grower of the year Scott Samwell, Eastbrook Vegetable Farms, Mount Barker, has been named as a nominee for the National grower of the year award, along with seed potato producer Ben Dowling, Mount Gambier.
Daniel Quattrochi, Monica’s Organics, Golden Grove, who was named SA grower of the year has been nominated for the grower of the year national title.
Biological Services’ James Altman has been nominated for the Industry Impact Award, while Onions Australia chief executive Lechelle Earl and PIRSA’s Sue Pederick are nominees in the women in horticulture award.
T Musolino and Co production manager Paul Musolino, Virginia, has been nominated for the environmental award and Justin Tiller, E Muir and Sons, is running for the community stewardship award.
