The Kondinin Group-ABC Rural Australian Farmer of the Year Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of both individuals and families. Nominations for the 2017 Australian Farmer of the Year Awards opened on 3 April and all Kondinin Group members are encouraged to recommend worthy individuals and families in one of five categories.

Kondinin Group general manager Ben White said the awards, now in their eighth year, had received a record amount of nominations in 2016. 

“The awards make a significant contribution to the fabric of rural Australia,” White said.

“The awards uncover incredible work being done throughout rural and regional Australia which is often unknown by our city counterparts,” he said.

“Our aim is to shine a light on those who are working tirelessly to achieve results which are keeping our industry alive. They are inspiring examples of how our industry will remain sustainable and progressive in the future.”

Winners will be announced in a special awards ceremony at Parliament House Canberra on August 16. The awards are led by two of Australia’s leading agricultural media organisations, the Kondinin Group, and ABC Rural.

The 2016 Australian Farmer of the Year, Matthew Keith, said receiving the award was recognition for many years of hard work by himself and his family.

“Winning provided encouragement to continue looking for new ways to diversify and to invent that new, original idea which would set us apart from the others,” Mr Keith said.

Troy Blackman the 2016 Case IH Young Farmer of the Year said it has also led to new opportunities.

“Winning the Case IH Young Farmer of the Year award has connected me with a whole new bunch of like-minded farmers and new customers which has helped my business and personal growth immensely,” Mr Blackman said.

Leigh Radford, head rural and national programs, ABC Regional, says the awards recognise the quiet achievers of rural Australia.

“There is a wealth of stories to be uncovered throughout rural Australia,” Mr Radford said. 

“The awards are an invaluable mechanism for not only applauding the extraordinary work being done, but encouraging winners and nominees to continue on their innovative paths and broadening their current networks.”

Nominations can be completed online HERE or for more information, contact the Kondinin Group on 1800 677 761.