Passionate innovators and key influencers in the agricultural sector will be recognised at the upcoming AgFutures Innovation and Investment Forum in Brisbane, which will showcase agri-technology and investment in Queensland agriculture.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said this year’s AgFutures 2018 event would coincide with National Agriculture Day on November 21.
"It’s an opportunity to network and participate in discussions with industry representatives, fellow producers, researchers and policy makers," the Minister said.
"We have arranged for a number of Australian and international speakers, experts in their respective fields, to share their insights.
"Once again, there is a strong field of nominees for the Peter Kenny Medal and the Minister’s Emerging Leader’s Award, which will be announced on the day.
"These awards identify and support leaders and innovators in the sector."
The Peter Kenny Medal, with its prize money of $3000, is for innovation leading to profitability and sustainability.
"Mr Kenny is remembered as a passionate advocate for agriculture, rural education and regional communities in our state," Minister Furner said.
"He was a champion for educating new generations of producers.
"Candidates for the award have been drawn from agribusiness, education, farm-based production, the supply chain, research or advocacy.
Peter Kenny Medal Finalists:
John Hughes – developer of the StoolZippa technology used in cane farming
Will and Sasha Treloar – organic beef producers in western Queensland
Rob and Krista Watkins – turning bananas rejected by supermarkets into value added products saw the creation of a new business, Natural Evolution.
"Young people who demonstrate outstanding leadership and are making a significant contribution to agriculture and rural communities, will also be recognised through the Minister’s Emerging Leaders Award."
Candidates must be aged 18 to 30 to be eligible for the $3000 prize, which will go towards further developing their career and leadership skills.
Minister’s Emerging Leader Award Finalists:
Alexandria Galea – Cotton Grower Services
Phil-Anthony Patane – Sugar Research Australia
Jesse Moody – Member of the Leading Sheep Advisory Panel
Nic Perkins – Goat producer in south-west Queensland.
