Gold Coast, Queensland – Jill Briggs, Managing Director of Rural Training Initiatives, has been recognised for her dedication to the industry, winning the AUSVEG Industry Impact Award, proudly sponsored by Visy, at the 2016 National Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner.

AUSVEG National Marketing Manager Nathan McIntyre said Ms Briggs was receiving the prestigious award in recognition of her longstanding efforts to improve the skills and leadership of emerging industry leaders. 

“Increasing the capabilities of vegetable industry members, in particular fostering leadership and inspiring dedication in younger members of the industry, is essential to the long-term viability of our industry,” said Mr McIntyre.

“The work that Jill has done in empowering young people in the industry, especially through the Growing Leaders Program commissioned by Horticulture Innovation Australia, is an exceptional example of how to encourage the industry’s youth to get more involved in the industry and forge a long term career in horticulture.” 

“Many of the industry’s most prominent growers have been involved in the Growing Leaders Program, and it is through the dedication of Jill that this program is such a success.”

“Jill is a truly worthy recipient of this award.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

The award is sponsored by Visy, a leading packaging and resource recovery company that delivers innovative packaging solutions for the benefit of the Australian horticulture industry. It is presented to an individual or business that has invested in creating, or has implemented, a system of technology or business practice outside of the industry norm. The technology or practice must also have resulted in a significant contribution to best farm practice or in cost savings through the value chain.

The 2016 National Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner was held at RACV Royal Pines on the Gold Coast on Saturday 25 June, and honoured growers and other members of the Australian vegetable, potato, apple and pear industries for outstanding achievements in their respective fields.

The National Horticulture Convention incorporated seven industry co-hosts and attracted around 1,500 local and international delegates. For official photos of the awards ceremony, please contact the AUSVEG media contact below.

MEDIA CONTACT: Shaun Lindhe, National Manager – Communications, AUSVEG 
Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0405 977 789, Email: shaun.lindhe@ausveg.com.au