Gold Coast, Queensland – Victorian vegetable grower Adam Schreurs has been recognised for his innovative pest management plan with the AUSVEG Environmental Award, proudly sponsored by Netafim, the world’s leading drip irrigation company, at the 2015 National Awards for Excellence on the Gold Coast.

The Environmental Award is sponsored by leading irrigation supplier Netafim, which is renowned for its innovative work in developing drip irrigation and water efficiency.

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.

Mr Schreurs from Schreurs & Sons has implemented a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan, with an entomologist visiting the property in Clyde, Victoria every week to provide advice on combatting existing pests and encouraging proliferation of beneficial insects.

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

“Adam Schruers has set an example for all Australian vegetable growers that environmentally sustainable pest management is achievable and a vital component of producing high quality crops,” said Mr Mulcahy.

“It is extremely important that environmental practices are continuously improved, to ensure that vegetable producers are having a minimal impact on their surrounding environments, while sustainably and profitably producing vegetables to supply to Australian consumers.”

IPM encourages the use of beneficial insects to combat pests and diseases, and reduces the amount of unnecessary pesticides used on vegetable crops to produce high quality, healthy vegetables for consumers.

The 2015 National Awards for Excellence was the capstone event for the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, incorporating AUSVEG and Apple and Pear Australia Limited, which attracted around 1,400 delegates.

AUSVEG is the leading horticulture body representing 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

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

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew MacDonald, Manager – Communications, AUSVEG

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