AN organic produce grower from Murray Bridge has claimed the title of South Australian grower of the year at the horticulture industry awards.
The newly-renamed Premier's Horticulture Awards for Excellence were held at the National Wine Centre on May 17, hosted by Ausveg SA, with Shane Eldridge, Eldridge Fresh Organics, Murray Bridge taking the top gong.
About 300 growers, members of parliament, researchers and industry leaders came together to celebrate this year's winners at a gala dinner, which was formally opened by SA premier Peter Malinauskas.
Young grower of the year went to Mark Russo, Adelaide Hydrofresh.
Recognised for his industry impact was Peter Petsios, SA Tomato Co Nursery, while Ben Hill-Ling, AgXtra, was researcher of the year.
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The women in horticulture award went to Liteisha Lochert, Solan Pty Ltd, Ramco, while Summerfruit Australia chief executive officer Trevor Ranford won the biosecurity award.
These winners will now go on to represent SA in the national horticulture awards for excellence at the Hort Connections 2023 conference in Adelaide in June.
Mr Malinauskas provided the keynote address at this year's event to celebrate a strong field of winners and nominees.
"SA's horticultural production is truly world class, delivering more than three billion dollars to the state's economy each year," he said.
"Our premium produce is widely recognised for its quality and its clean and safe environmental credentials.
"I congratulate each and every one of the winners for their contribution in advancing one of the state's most significant industries."
Ausveg SA chief executive officer Jordan Brooke-Barnett said winners of the inaugural Premier's Awards showcased leaders from throughout the industry.
"We are fortunate to have such a strong field of award winners in our state whose commitment to industry and tireless work is growing the contribution of our $3b sector to the state economy, which plays a vital role in feeding Australia," he said.
Primary industries and regional development minister Clare Scriven said horticulture continued to be a key driver of the South Australian economy.
"I congratulate the entire industry and applaud the nominees, finalists and winners of the inaugural Premer's Horticulture Awards," she said.
"These are prestigious awards, acknowledging excellence and innovation accros the industry. I am certain we will be well-represented at the National Awards in June."
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