AOL Chief Executive Officer, Niki Ford, said the Awards were an opportunity to recognise excellence and diversity within organics, and applauded the winners for their contribution to the nation’s $2 billion industry.
“The standard of these awards continues to reach new heights, and this year’s winners demonstrate innovation and leadership within the organic sector and how it continues to progress and evolve,” Ms Ford said.
“It has also been encouraging to witness, particularly in the individual categories, many winners choosing a career in organics, or to implement it in their business, as they have seen both the environmental and economic benefits of organic production.
“It is clear from the winners’ applications they are making a significant impact not just on their businesses, but also the broader industry, while also contributing to the national economy and the wellbeing of Australians and international customers.”
The winner of the coveted Farmer of the Year title was Sunshine Coast-based strawberry farmer Brendon Hoyle who applies innovative farming methods to produce what he believes are the sweetest berries on the market. Mr Hoyle’s operation, Ashbern Farms, grows organic strawberries in winter in the Glass House Mountains, and non-organic strawberries in Stanthorpe over summer.
CEO and General Manager of Victoria’s Bulla Farms, Georgia Beattie, was recognised as Organic Woman of the Year. As well as her role as CEO of Australia’s largest organic mushroom company, Ms Beattie sits on a number of boards including Australia’s largest certifying body, ACO Certification Ltd. It is from these leadership roles that she has been influential in making structural changes within industry to champion women.
