Through a culture of continuous innovation, passion and dedication to sustainability, Pirrone Brothers have successfully transitioned from sugarcane to advanced vegetable production while being highly regarded by their peers.
Together, Ross-Shane, Josh and Chris Pirrone were presented the Syngenta Grower of the Year Award at Hort Connections 2023, as part of the Hort Innovations National Awards for Excellence on 7 June.
“As we proudly sponsor the Grower of the Year award, we celebrate the relentless pursuit of excellence demonstrated by horticultural growers, especially our finalists of this coveted award and the overall winner, Pirrone Brothers,” said Paul Luxton, Syngenta country head of Australia and New Zealand.
“I commend all the finalists for this prestigious award and urge them to take pride in their accomplishments as their unwavering commitment to shaping the fruit and vegetable story for the better, is an inspiration to us all.”
The success of Pirrone Brothers has been attributed to their tireless commitment to planning, learning, experimentation, and networking, with the unwavering support of parents Ross-Wayne and Giovanna.
Through passion for their work and a culture of continuous innovation, they have transformed their operation and achieved remarkable growth in just a decade, while overcoming numerous challenges unique to North Queensland.
“Their focus is on the year-round supply of high-quality fresh produce, with a rotation including cucumber, zucchini, pumpkin and eggplant crops. This has been underpinned by research, training, and study, adopting sustainable, profitable production methods.
“As a result, Pirrone Brothers serve as an exemplary model for both current and future generations of agricultural producers, setting a high standard in the industry. Furthermore, they have generously shared their knowledge and experiences with fellow farmers, contributing to the broader agricultural community.”
Mr Luxton said across Australia and around the world, the significance of safe, nutritious, and easily accessible fruits and vegetables has never been more important.
“The critical role they play in our lives cannot be overstated. As we reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, it is clear that the global demand for these essential foods continues to grow.
“At Syngenta, we embrace the responsibility to support growers in meeting this demand sustainably.
“Our commitment to collaboration and partnership is the cornerstone of our Good Growth Plan—a comprehensive framework that outlines our sustainability commitments and our proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by farmers in an ever-changing climate.
“As we celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and anticipate the possibilities that lie ahead, let us embrace the power of knowledge, collaboration, and innovation. Together, we can cultivate a horticultural landscape that thrives and evolves, ensuring a bountiful harvest for generations to come.”
