AUSTRALIAN farmers have just two weeks to nominate their choice for the top 2018 Farm Biosecurity Producer of the Year.

The award celebrates Australian producers who go the extra mile to avoid diseases, pests and weeds coming on to their property.

Through the Farm Biosecurity Program, Animal Health Australia and Plant Health Australia are partnering with the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in recognising an Australian producer who delivers outstanding on-farm biosecurity practices.

AHA said whether they work individually or with local, state or federal bodies, producers play a vital role in managing endemic diseases, pests and weeds and are crucial in detecting and containing exotic disease and pest threats.

With only two weeks left in the nomination period, AHA chief executive officer Kathleen Plowman is encouraging people to nominate a co-worker, friend or family member who is proactive about protecting their farm property from diseases, pests and weeds.

“We are keen to see an outstanding farmer recognised for integrating on-farm biosecurity actions within their everyday farm management. By securing their farm, these farmers are securing their future,” said Ms Plowman.

PHA’s executive director and CEO, Greg Fraser reiterated that all producers, from hobby farmers to large commercial operators, are eligible for nomination.

“All farmers have a role to play in the national biosecurity system, regardless of what they farm or how large their operation is.

“I encourage anyone who knows a farmer who is serious about biosecurity to nominate them for the inaugural award in the next two weeks,” Mr Fraser said.

Nominations for the 2018 Australian Biosecurity Awards close on Friday October 20. The awards will be presented at a gala dinner in Canberra in March 2018.

Farm Biosecurity is a national awareness program that provides information to livestock and plant producers and related service providers about on-farm biosecurity, and prevention of animal diseases and plant pests. The program is a joint initiative of AHA and PHA. It encourages producers to identify risks to their livestock and plant products and minimise these risks by incorporating on-farm biosecurity measures into their everyday operations.

For information on the awards, including the nomination form, visit agriculture.gov.au/aba and for more information on the Farm Biosecurity Program’s six on-farm biosecurity essentials, visit farmbiosecurity.com.au

Source: Animal Health Australia.