Tasmania’s top potato and vegetable growers have once again been honoured at Simplot Australia’s prestigious Annual Grower Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the 2024–2025 harvest season.
The annual Awards, which have been in place since 1997, continue to shine a spotlight on the dedication, innovation, and resilience of local growers who are the backbone of Simplot’s supply chain and the broader Australian food industry. Les Murdoch, Director Raw Procurement Global Agricultural Services, said the Awards are a proud tradition that celebrates more than just yield.
“These Awards are about recognising the people behind the produce, the families, the innovators, and the next generation of growers who are shaping the future of Australian agriculture,” Mr Murdoch said.
“We’re proud to work alongside more than 300 growers across Tasmania who supply over 400,000 tonnes of fresh produce each year. Their commitment ensures Australians continue to enjoy the quality they expect from trusted brands like Birds Eye and Edgell.”
This year’s event brought together growers from the Ulverstone, Scottsdale, and Midlands regions, with awards presented across multiple categories including Best Grower, Top Harvester, Young Grower of the Year, and Outstanding Contribution to Industry. Among the highlights was the recognition of emerging talent, with several young growers acknowledged for their innovation, sustainability practices, and leadership potential.
“It’s inspiring to see the passion and ingenuity coming through in the next generation,” Mr Murdoch added. “They’re not just continuing a legacy — they’re redefining it.”
As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, Simplot remains committed to supporting local growers through long-term partnerships, innovation, and shared success.
“These Awards are a celebration of excellence, but also a reminder of the strength and spirit of Tasmania’s farming community,” Mr Murdoch said. “We thank all our growers for their hard work and congratulate this year’s winners.”
The Simplot Grower Awards 2024/2025 went to:
- Tasmanian Potato Contractor of the Year 2024: Skelbrook Produce – Scott Rockcliff
- North West Potato Grower of the Year 2024: Redbank Farming – Michael Nichols
- Scottsdale Potato Grower of the Year 2024: Rattray CL NE & HM Pty Ltd – Heath Rattray
- Midlands Potato Grower of the Year 2024: Cliston Pty Ltd – Mark French
- Seed Potato Grower of the Year 2024: Combes G & G – Graeme Combes
- North West Vegetable Grower of the Year 2024: Radco Agriculture Pty Ltd – Caitlin Radford
- Midlands Vegetable Grower of the Year 2024: Cliston Pty Ltd – Mark French
Individuals who have provided extended service and continue to build and share knowledge that advances the potato and vegetable industry and agriculture across Tasmania were recognised. The recipients of these Service Awards were:
- Simplot Australia Award for Services to the Potato & Vegetable Industry 2025: – John Cresswell
- Simplot Australia Agricultural Service Award for Excellence 2025: - Bernie Prins
The Awards also celebrate those new and upcoming to the industry with the Young Growers of the Year. This year the Young Grower Awards went to:
- Simplot Young Grower of the Year 2025 – Potatoes: Damon Addison – Addison RD & KF
- Simplot Young Grower of the Year 2025 – Vegetables: Richard Heazlewood – Melton Vale Pastoral Pty Ltd
