Cairns, Queensland – Tasmanian grower, Mr Colin Houston, has been recognised with the Netafim Environmental Award at the 2014 AUSVEG National Awards for Excellence in Cairns, for his innovative approaches to soil management in horticulture.

The 2014 AUSVEG National Awards for Excellence are the horticulture industry’s premier awards and recognise leaders across multiple areas of the Australian vegetable industry.
AUSVEG is the leading horticulture body representing 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

Working regularly with local researchers to assist in creating new research outcomes, Mr Houston participates in trials of new and innovative ways of managing soil on his Tasmanian farm.

He has also been heavily involved with the EnviroVeg Platinum scheme and will be one of the first growers to implement the scheme and brand their produce with the EnviroVeg logo.

AUSVEG CEO, Richard Mulcahy, congratulated Mr Houston on his win, praising his commitment to working with industry and the research community.

“It is extremely important that environmental practices are continuously improved, to ensure that vegetable producers are minimally impacting on their surrounding environment and sustainably and profitably producing vegetables to supply to Australian consumers,” said Mr Mulcahy.

Good soil management is imperative to reducing the impact of soil pathogens, achieving optimum irrigation and ensuring that growing land is productive for years to come.

“Colin Houston has set an example for all Australian vegetable growers that good soil management is no matter to leave to the last minute,” said Mr Mulcahy.

The Environment Award is sponsored by leading irrigation supplier Netafim, in recognition of their innovative work in drip irrigation and water efficiency.

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

ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew MacDonald, Spokesperson, AUSVEG. Email: andrew.macdonald@ausveg.com.au, Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0406 836 330.