A leading agricultural scientist from the vegetable industry has been named Winner of the 2016 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation’s (RIRDC) Victorian Rural Women’s Award.
Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford today announced Australian Vegetable Growers (AUSVEG’s) Dr Jessica Lye as the winner of the prestigious award at a ceremony held at Parliament House, Melbourne.
Dr Lye was selected by an independent panel from three finalists for her work on the sustainability of the horticulture sector and passion for encouraging connections between consumers and farmers.
She will receive $10,000 for professional development, a scholarship for the Australian Institute of Directors’ Course in Canberra and an opportunity to become the national award winner, to be announced later this year.
Dr Lye aims to use her funding for an overseas study tour to New Zealand, the United States and South America to work closely with industry and growers on protecting Victoria’s reputation for producing clean, green and safe vegetables.
The Andrews Labor Government knows the importance of supporting women in agriculture, which is why the Government will re-establish the Rural Women’s Network.
The RIRDC Rural Women’s Award acknowledges the leadership role women play in primary industries and rural communities, supporting them in continuing to drive innovation in Victoria’s agricultural and rural communities.
The RIRDC award is supported in Victoria by Agriculture Victoria and is sponsored nationally by Westpac.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“Victoria has a strong reputation as a producer of clean and safe vegetable produce – and we want that to grow. Through Dr Lye’s work, more growers will have the knowledge to take it to the next level to safeguard against pests and diseases.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to support a young, highly skilled woman to boost Victoria’s vegetable industry while breaking down cultural boundaries.”
“The passion and tenacity of these women is remarkable and we encourage all finalists to use the award as a platform to further their work as agricultural champions.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020