Extension for farmers to apply for awards

The deadline for innovative farmers in NSW to apply for this year’s farming excellent awards has been extended until this Friday, 13 June.

First prize of $10,000 for the farmer with the best mix of sustainability and profitability, while the top young farmer will take home $5,000.

Organisers also encouraged friends and colleagues of outstanding farmers to nominate them for consideration in this year’s statewide awards.

Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald and NSW Farmers’ Association President Jock Laurie urged farmers to throw their cap into the ring and give themselves the chance to raise the profile of farmer achievements within the wider community.

"These awards play an important role in recognising the determination and achievement of primary producers, particularly through their ability to survive through the longest drought on record," Minister Macdonald said.

Mr Laurie said the finalists helped educate the wider community about the true story about the value of rural industries.

"Our past winners and finalists have all become important ambassadors for the industry and are helping us to better educate urban audiences about the value and sustainability of primary industries," he said.

"We need the people behind these stories to help put a face to the efforts and hard work that result in our world class food and fibre products."

The annual awards are coordinated by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and NSW Farmers’ Association, and supported by Rural Press and the Royal Agricultural Society. For application forms go to www.dpi.nsw.gov.au or www.nswfarmers.org.au