20 April 2015

Mackay’s most outstanding cane farmers were recognised on Friday night (17 April), when Mackay Sugar held its 27th annual Productivity Awards.

Approximately 300 people attended the event, held at St Patrick’s Hall, with more than 30 awards presented to farmers from within the Mackay Sugar cane supply network.

Mackay Sugar Chairman Andrew Cappello said the Mackay Sugar Productivity Awards highlight and reward farming excellence in the Mackay region.

“Productivity is vital to the success of our business, so it’s extremely important to recognise those who strive to achieve outstanding results in farm productivity and represent strong commitment and innovative ideas for the future of cane farming.

“Our 2015 award recipients exemplify the dedication and resilience that sustains our local sugar industry,” Mr Cappello said.

This year’s winners (for the 2014 season) include:
> In Appreciation for on Farm Research Award: Charles Deguara
> Harvesting Award – Under 30,000 tonnes Award: Binstead Brothers
> Harvesting Award – 30,000 to 50,000 tonnes Award: Ian Craig and Ian Fordyce
> Harvesting Award – Over 50,000 tonnes Award: Craig Keating
> Young Grower Award: Anthony Ferlazzo
> Sustainable Management Practices Award: Vic and Mark Zarb
> Best Average Producer Over Five Years Award: Avenue Farm Pty Ltd
> Cane Growing Excellence Award: CS and AM Agius

A full list of award recipients (including ‘Best Productivity’ for zones 1 – 24) is available via the Mackay Sugar website: www.mkysugar.com.au (under Cane Supply).