Whilst promoting the Rice Industry Awards at the recent 2019 Rice Industry Field Day, Rice Extension Coordinator Troy Mauger shared a quote from Wyn Ellis, coordinator of the UN initiative Sustainable Rice Platform, which reinforced the importance of the initiative.
“On a world scale it is incredible what you [the Australian rice industry] is achieving in sustainable rice production. It is also admirable that you are so humble in your achievements, but at some stage you need to start shouting this from the rooftops.”
“The Awards are a way we can formally recognise the latest advancements in the rice industry, bring growers and industry together to celebrate the success of the industry and individuals who are at the forefront of best practice.”
“We want our growers to back themselves, get involved and help the industry shout their achievements from the rooftops,” said Mr Mauger.
Michael Chalmers, Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia Director and third generation rice farmer from Wakool, emphasised the importance of sharing success stories with the industry and broader community.
“Rice farmers are taking the lead in innovation and technology, we’re farming smarter and more efficiently than ever before,” said Mr Chalmers.
“The awards are a fantastic opportunity for recognising innovation, measuring sustainability, promoting business excellence and business benchmarking.”
The 2019 Rice Industry Awards comprises of three categories; the SunRice Grower of the Year Award, Rice Extension Highest Yield for C19 Award and Ricegrowers’ Association Honorary Councillor Award.
Award winners will be announced at the RGA Annual Conference in August 2019 and the SunRice Grower of the Year will host a field day on Thursday, 12 December 2019 to showcase the recipients’ farming practices.
The 2019 SunRice Grower of the Year winner will also receive a prize pack including $2500 to spend on personal or business development, a position on the RGA Emerging Leaders Program, tickets to the RGA Conference dinner and a nomination for the Australian Farmer of the Year Award.
