Spotlight on next generation of agricultural leaders

Published Friday, 10 August, 2018 at 07:00 AM

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries
The Honourable Mark Furner

Passionate innovators and key influencers in the agricultural sector will once again be recognised, with nominations now open for the Peter Kenny Medal and the Minister’s Emerging Leader’s Award.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries 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,” the Minister said.

“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.

“As a teacher working in rural Queensland, and an agricultural entrepreneur, Mr Kenny 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 a number of fields, including, but not limited to, agribusiness, education, farm-based production, the supply chain, research or advocacy.”

The other award is the Minister’s Emerging Leaders Award.

Mr Furner said this was in recognition of those individuals who demonstrated outstanding leadership or the potential to make a significant contribution to their field of interest, the wider industry and the rural community.

“Influential young leaders represent the future of agriculture in Queensland,” he said.

“Candidates must be aged 18 to 30 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 Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to leadership and innovation in the agricultural sector.”

Nominations for both awards open today and will close on Friday 28 September.  

The winners will be announced on National Agriculture Day 2018 at the AgFutures Conference in Brisbane on 21 November.

Further information is available at www.daf.qld.gov.au/agfutures

Media: Brock Taylor - 0427 018 178