Gold Coast, Queensland – Queensland-based marketing and business development professional Kees Versteeg has taken out the AUSVEG Innovative Marketing Award, proudly sponsored by the Central Markets Association of Australia, at the 2015 National Awards for Excellence, in recognition of his work to develop local and international markets for Australian vegetable produce.

The award is supported by the Central Markets Association of Australia, which promotes and represents the operators of Australia’s six central fresh produce markets. It recognises an individual or business which has created an innovative marketing solution, process or program.

The Award winner must also have created new market opportunities for vegetable or potato products, and created the potential for long-term positive effects, through increased sales or awareness.

AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy congratulated Mr Versteeg, of Lockyer Valley-based business Qualipac, on receiving the Innovative Marketing Award during a Gala Dinner event at Jupiters Gold Coast on Saturday 27 June.

“Given that Australian vegetable producers are beginning to explore alternative markets as viable business avenues, it is pleasing to see someone in the industry working as hard as Kees to open doors for all producers,” said Mr Mulcahy.

Mr Versteeg is also a valuable contributor to vegetable industry research and development, playing a vital role in the levy funded project, Market Analysis and Strategy: Broccoli to Japan.

“Kees’ key role on the steering committee for this levy-funded project is indicative of his expertise and commitment to the Australian vegetable industry,” said Mr Mulcahy.

“Kees’ success in exploring new markets for produce ensures he is a worthy recipient of this award,” said Mr Mulcahy.

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

The 2015 National Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner honoured growers and other members of the Australian vegetable, potato, apple and pear industries for outstanding achievements in their respective fields.

The Awards were the capstone event of the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, incorporating AUSVEG and Apple and Pear Australia Limited, which attracted around 1,400 local and international delegates.

For official photos of the awards ceremony, please contact the AUSVEG media contact below.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew MacDonald, Manager – Communications, AUSVEG

Phone: (03) 9882 0277 | Mobile: 0406 836 330 | E-mail: andrew.macdonald@ausveg.com.au