The Department of Agriculture has announced that nominations for the 2020 Australian Biosecurity Awards are now open.
The awards recognise individuals, groups and organisations that show a strong commitment to working collaboratively with the Department to support and promote Australia’s biosecurity.
Acting Deputy Secretary of the Department, Peta Lane said the annual awards were an important recognition of those making vital contributions to protecting Australia’s biosecurity status.
“Our biosecurity system is a significant national asset that safeguards us from a range of significant threats,” Ms Lane said.
“The system supports our way of life, not to mention around $60 billion in agricultural production, $49 billion in agricultural exports and our $42 billion inbound tourism industry — all contributors to jobs and growth, particularly in regional and rural Australia.”
She said last year’s award winners included cattle producer, Melinee Leather (pictured), a strong advocate for the importance of biosecurity practices to the long-term viability of individual businesses and the beef industry.
“I encourage anyone who knows a biosecurity champion to nominate them so they can get the national recognition they deserve,” Ms Lane said.
There are four award categories this year – for Industry, Government, Lifetime Achievement and Producer of the Year.
Nominations close on 6 December and further information can be accessed at this PS News link.
