Passionate innovators and key influencers in the agricultural sector will once again be recognised through the Peter Kenny Medal and the Minister’s Emerging Leader Award.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said these awards were a way of identifying and supporting innovators and leaders in the sector.
“As with previous years, we are inviting nominations of those who have made outstanding contributions to an even better future in Queensland agriculture, fisheries or forestry,” Mr Furner said.
“I know there are many individuals who achieve great things for the industry that include taking actions to lower emissions, enhancing drought and disaster resilience, being on the front foot in identifying and managing biosecurity risks, and finding new ways to use new technology to improve their sustainable production.
“The Peter Kenny Medal, with its prize money of $3000, is for innovation leading to profitability and sustainability.
“We all remember Mr Kenny as a passionate advocate for agriculture, rural education and regional communities in our state.
“As a teacher working in rural Queensland, and an agricultural entrepreneur, he was a champion for educating new generations of producers.
“With that legacy in mind, we are encouraging applicants for the Peter Kenny Medal who are involved in agriculture, fisheries or forestry.
“Candidates could work in agribusiness, education, technology, farm-based production, the supply chain, research or advocacy, or an associated field.”
Mr Furner said the other award was the Minister’s Emerging Leader Award.
“This is in recognition of those individuals who show outstanding leadership, or the potential to make a significant contribution to their field of interest, the community and the wider agricultural, fisheries or forestry sector,” he said.
“Influential young leaders represent the future of agriculture in Queensland. Candidates must be aged 18 to 35 to be eligible for the prize purse of $3000, which will go towards further developing their career and leadership skills.
“These awards are another demonstration of the Queensland Government’s commitment to leadership and innovation in the agricultural sector.”
Mr Furner said nominations for both awards would be open from today until 2 September, with winners to be announced at the TropAg Conference at the end of October.
