Meet this year’s FNQ Reef champions

##MP##

Six Far North Queenslanders are among the winners of this year’s Queensland Farmers Federation (QFF) Reef Champion Awards.

The annual awards recognise farmers, Traditional Owners, and community leaders who are working to reduce their impact on the Great Barrier Reef.

Awards went to innovative nitrogen reduction practices, farm revegetation, and wetlands and native animal species conservation.

QFF CEO, Jo Sheppard, said finalists and winners had made significant efforts to safeguard the future of the Reef and coastal systems.

##BA##

“The outstanding achievements of farmers, extension officers, Traditional Owners, and community members nominated for these awards is a testament to agriculture’s commitment and achievements in improving water quality.

“Critical to the success of these voluntary programs and actions is the strong partnership with the Australian and Queensland governments.

"It is only through working together that we can achieve mutually beneficial outcomes that will underpin a sustainable future for farmers and a globally competitive future for food security."

Queensland Environment Minister, Meaghan Scanlon, said Reef Champions are making a difference.

“These awards showcase the achievements of Queenslanders who are setting the benchmark for agricultural innovation to reduce run-off and delivering practical Reef projects.

“The work being undertaken by the farmers, advisers, Traditional Owners, and community groups shows what can be achieved if we work together.

##PQ##

Aloomba farmer, Tony Rossi, took out the major award, the Prince’s Trust Australia Environmental Leadership Reef Sustainability Award.

Mr Rossi was recognised for using his scientific skills on the farm to develop precision agricultural techniques and promote soil health.

Mossman agronomist, Rebecca McHardie, won the Reef Extension Officer Champion Award for her work helping cane growers improve productivity and water quality.

Matt and Ben Abbott, from Mena Creek, won the  Reef Pesticide Stewardship Champion Award for their papaya and banana produce.

The Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation won the Reef Traditional Owner Group Champion Award for their work improving water quality.

Ashlyn Skeene won the Reef Traditional Owner Youth Champion Award for her research and work removing plastics from the sea.

Port Douglas teenager, Ema Parker, took out the Reef Youth Champion Award, for marine conservation and public awareness projects.