Farming figures honoured at 2026 Tasmanian Agricultural Productivity Group awards

Some of the figures striving to improve the state’s agricultural industry have been honoured at the 2026 Tasmanian Agricultural Productivity Group (TAPG) awards.

Taking place during the organisation’s annual general meeting, chair Mark Kable said the awards recognised five individuals' contributions to the farming sector.

“It was a pleasure to bring our members together to celebrate the outstanding contribution of the award recipients to the Tasmanian agricultural sector,” Mr Kable said.

“Not only did these awards celebrate the outstanding achievements over a long period from Doug Green, Rob Dent, and Terry Brient - our executive officer for 18 years - but also the future of the industry by recognising the efforts of Tayla Field and Prue Rothwell to drive improved productivity through the delivery of the VegNET program.”

Mr Dent received a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to the seed industry.

“Rob has been a driving force in the Tasmanian seed industry, from his early investment in a second-hand seed cleaner to establishing successful businesses, developing specialist varieties and promoting Tasmania internationally,” TAPG said.

“As founding President of the Tasmanian Seed Industry Group, he also helped bring the 12th International Herbage Seed Group Conference to Tasmania in 2025.

“Alongside his wife Jane, he has also contributed generously to the wider rural community.”

TAPG also awarded Mr Green lifetime achievement recognition.

“Doug’s career has been devoted to vegetable growers and the wider agricultural sector,” TAPG said.

“Through agronomic advice and benchmarking, Doug has helped businesses improve productivity and profitability. His strategic insight on chemistry permits, disease risks and market access has also supported the long-term strength of Tasmanian horticulture and cropping.”

VegNET’s Ms Rothwell and Ms Field received the Training and Recruitment award.

“Through their delivery of VegNET, Prue and Tayla have helped connect research with practical application for vegetable growers.

“Their complementary skills, technical leadership, hands-on support and commitment to grower engagement have helped promote modern, sustainable practices and strengthen the future of Tasmanian horticulture.”

Mr Brient was recognised through the Services to Agricultural Community award for his work as TAPG executive officer.

“Across 18 years as TAPG Executive Officer, Terry has supported significant outcomes through project delivery and advocacy focused on agricultural productivity.

“His establishment of the Agricultural Innovation Expo brought together innovative ideas, practical education and industry collaboration, reflecting his longstanding commitment to the sector.”

The annual general meeting section featured addresses and presentations from Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce, Fairbrother founder and director Royce Fairbrother, Rural Alive and Well CEO Lee Whiteley, and Tasmanian Independent Retailers CEO John Devine.