The winners of the inaugural Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards have been announced.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jo Palmer said the Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards honour individuals within industries and communities that have made a significant contribution to the state's biosecurity.
There are two award categories; the Tasmanian Community Biosecurity Award and the Tasmanian Industry Biosecurity Award.
"It was great to see the nominations for these awards across a range of industries from bee keepers to fruit growers," Minister Palmer said.
The winner of the Tasmanian Community Biosecurity Award is Robyn Lewis.
"Robyn has been heavily involved in the management and conservation of the Milford Forest for many years. In that time, she has successfully implemented strong biosecurity measures on the property, including education to community groups and councils," Minister Palmer said.
"Robyn has worked with a large number of external contractors, researchers, tourists, and other visitors, to educate all those who access the property on good biosecurity practices."
Nic Hansen has taken out the inaugural Tasmanian Industry Biosecurity Award.
"Nic is well known in the Tasmanian fruit growing industry and has been an avid supporter of the development and improvement of biosecurity in Tasmania for some time," Minister Palmer said.
"He worked closely with Horticulture Australia and the National Fruit Fly Council and was heavily involved in the 2018 Tasmanian fruit fly emergency response. It's not an exaggeration to say that Nic's involvement was instrumental in ensuring the best possible outcomes for our horticultural industry."
The Rockliff Liberal Government is committed to maintaining a strong biosecurity system.
"These awards provide an opportunity to recognise achievements in the sector," Minister Palmer said.
"Protecting Tasmania is a shared responsibility. These awards acknowledge and recognise those who have shown a commitment to supporting and promoting biosecurity in our state.
"Our new 'Biosecurity Champions', together with Biosecurity Tasmania will continue promote strong biosecurity in our state."
Winners of the awards were determined by a committee of independent stakeholders from the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association, Fruit Growers Tasmania, Biosecurity Tasmania and the Tasmanian Biosecurity Advisory Committee, after a public call for nominations.
