A large contingent of seed industry professionals turned out to celebrate the Australian seed industry as the Australian Seed Federation held their Gala Dinner and Awards evening during ‘Seed Business 2023’.
The iconic Adelaide Oval served as the backdrop for the evening which saw three Life Members inducted, the inaugural President’s Award given and individuals recognised as Seed Industry Professionals, having completed the Australian Seed Federation’s online training program.
Member for Spence, Matt Burnell MP congratulated the seed industry for their important role as the foundational and first input for vast amounts of Australian agricultural output. Mr Burnell was on hand to congratulate those recognised as part of the awards evening.
Mike Gout, Bruce Guy and Marcia Taylor were inducted as Life Members to the Australian Seed Federation for their many contributions to the ASF and broader industry over their careers.
Australian Seed Federation CEO, Katherine Delbridge said Mr Gout was nominated for the contribution to proprietary marketing of pasture seeds spanning three decades as well as his application of economic outcomes for growers to new variety development.
“Across his many seed industry efforts, Mike was commended for his instrumental role in the establishment of the Pasture Trials Networks and an avid supporter of independent evaluation of cropping and pasture seed varieties.
“Throughout his career Mike held key positions at PGG Wrightson Seeds and Seed Force (RAGT Australia) and was recognised for his ethical and high work standards.
“Fellow nominee, Bruce Guy started his career in seed retail, before joining the Wrightson Seeds Kimihia laboratory in Christchurch. He held various roles in NZ for over 20 years before relocating to Australia in 2004.
“Bruce was active attendee across ASF meetings, focusing his energies on reviewing seed certification and proprietary standards. As a keen seed educator, Bruce presented multiple times to the industry at ASF conferences and events.
“Bruce’s portfolio saw him manage seed production in Victoria, South Australia, NSW and Tasmania, where he excelled in assisting growers by increasing their seed yields through comprehensive agronomic advice.”
Mr Guy was thanked for his extensive industry engagement, passion and selfless sharing of knowledge to benefit and continue to drive the success of the Australian seed industry.
Marcia Taylor – the first female to be awarded Life Membership with the Australian Seed Federation – began her career in the seed industry in the 1960’s with Arthur Yates & Co working as a seed analyst.
She was part of a dedicated team analysing seed and maintaining quality control standards. Hes diligence as a seed analyst and attention to detail saw her rise through the ranks to become the quality assurance manager.
“Marcia was instrumental in the formation of the Seed Analysts Society in Australia (SASA) and the society’s inaugural president. SASA collaborated on new technologies, methods, training and reviews of changes to ISTA rules.”
In 2005 Marica joined the Australian Seeds Authority where she keenly engaged with ISTA, NATA and OECD matters.
Marcia unfortunately passed away in April 2022 but was recognised posthumously for her passion for sharing knowledge with other seed analysts and guiding many through their careers.
To complete the awards component of the evening, ASF immediate past president Tim Pepper recognised Michael Leader of Bayer with the inaugural President’s Award.
Mr Leader was awarded the honour for his contribution to both the domestic and international seed industries for what can only be described as “going above and beyond.”
Mr Leader has been the Chair of numerous working groups for both the Australian and International Seed Federations and served as an ASF board director and president.
Ms Delbridge said Mr Leader’s willingness to assist with policy analysis and submissions across matters of biosecurity and phytosanitary, biotechnology and future breeding technologies has been of great benefit to the whole industry.
“The President’s Award was a worthy way for Michael’s efforts to be recognised.”
The Gala Dinner was a highlight from the four-day Seed Business 2023 which in addition to the social and networking functions, held leadership development, the second Women in Seed event and a packed conference program focusing on matters of research and industry partnerships; ESG; the EU trade deal; biotechnology and the latest on commodities.
