Gold Coast, Queensland – Victorian vegetable grower Tony Croft has been recognised for his commitment and passion for organic farming after taking home the AUSVEG Environmental Award at the 2016 National Awards for Excellence on the Gold Coast.

The 2016 National Awards for Excellence are the horticulture industry’s premier awards and recognise leaders across multiple areas of the Australian vegetable, potato, apple and pear industries. The awards were held on Saturday 25 June at RACV Royal Pines.

Mr Croft, from Arahura Farms in Victoria, specialises in growing 100 per cent certified organic carrots and beetroot to both domestic and export markets. His family’s growing operation in Nyah West, near Swan Hill, supplies its customers with high quality produce throughout the year. 

AUSVEG National Marketing Manager Nathan McIntyre congratulated Mr Croft on receiving the award, praising his commitment and passion for organic farming. 

The Environmental Award is sponsored by leading irrigation supplier Netafim, which is renowned for its work in developing drip irrigation and water efficiency.

“Tony Croft is a champion of the organic vegetable growing community in Australia and this award recognises his dedication to implementing sustainable farming practices,” Mr McIntyre said. 

“Since its establishment in 2000, Arahura Farms has grown to become one of Australia’s largest organic producers under the leadership of Tony and the support of his family. The business now supplies major markets with both organic carrots and beetroot, as well as organic onions, cos lettuce and cabbages on a seasonal basis.” 

“Environmental sustainability is extremely important to the Australian vegetable industry and Tony is a leading example of a vegetable producer who is determined to ensure their growing practices have a minimal impact on the surrounding environment.”

The 2016 National Awards for Excellence was the capstone event for the 2016 National Horticulture Convention, which incorporated seven industry co-hosts and attracted around 1,500 delegates to RACV Royal Pines on the Gold Coast.

For photographs, or to request an interview with award winners, please contact the AUSVEG media representative below.

ENDS

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