FOR the first time WA agriculture was a category at the WA Regional Achievement and Community Awards and was recognised for its excellence.
Eleven individuals and organisations were honoured at the 2016 awards, announced on Friday, October 28.
While the WA Regional Achievement and Community Awards began in 2002, this was the first time an agricultural business had won an award.
Advance Packing and Marketing Services's, Fresh Produce Alliance, Manjimup, won the Indago Solutions Agricultural Innovation award and was also announced as the Department of Regional Development overall State winner.
The presentation dinner saw 500 guests celebrate regional WA's high achievers and community contributors.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman, who is patron of the annual awards, said the event recognised the excellent work being done in a variety of fields across WA.
"Fresh Produce Alliance produces food that is naturally healthy and delicious, using innovative technology to convert otherwise unmarketable produce into marketable products for domestic and export markets," Mr Redman said.
"I congratulate their innovative work in the South-West, which is making a valuable contribution to the sustainability of our regions and WA's agrifood sector.
"The awards recognise locally-driven projects and activities that help ensure regional communities continue to thrive and develop.
"It is important to acknowledge those who inspire us with their leadership and dedication, and celebrate the contribution they make to our regional communities."
Indago Solutions Agricultural Innovation director Steve Meerwald told Farm Weekly that after being part of the awards in previous years, he wanted agriculture to be recognised.
"We were dismayed that regional awards had no agricultural component," Mr Meewald said.
"We rectified that and for the first time had an award that recognised the significant innovation and ingenuity of WA agriculture."
Jacinta Bolsenbroek
Senior journalist at Farm Weekly.
Senior journalist at Farm Weekly.
