Gold Coast, Queensland – Western Australian vegetable grower Nicolas Trandos has been awarded the prestigious AUSVEG Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Awards for Excellence on the Gold Coast.

The Western Australian industry figurehead was recognised for his incredible contribution to the Australian vegetable industry over his lifetime with the special award, which was announced by AUSVEG Chairman Geoff Moar at Jupiters Gold Coast this evening.

AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy said that Mr Trandos deserved to be recognised for his achievements in the Australian vegetable industry, including his role within the WA Market Gardeners’ Association, the Australian Growers’ Federation and his role in the establishment of the National Vegetable Levy.

“Nick is an exemplary grower who has worked tirelessly on a wide variety industry issues, representing the interests of not only Western Australian vegetable growers, but growers from all over the country.”

“He consistently engages with the industry and strives for excellence in his every endeavour, especially his efforts in the establishment of the National Vegetable Levy which invests around $20 million annually in industry research and development.”

Mr Trandos received an Order of Australia medal in 1998 for his service to local government and the Australian vegetable industry, and though considers himself semi-retired, he is still Chairman of the Trandos Board and works closely with his sons Jim and Arthur on the growing aspect of the business.

“For his outstanding dedication to the vegetable industry, Nick is entirely deserving of this Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Mr Mulcahy.

The 2015 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.

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

Photos can be supplied on request, along with interviews with award winners through the below media contact.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew MacDonald, Manager – Communications, AUSVEG

Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0406 836 330, Email: andrew.macdonald@ausveg.com.au