WA Award winners Sam Licciardello and Nicole Giblett
Sam Licciardello does WA proud, and at Hort Connections, taking away a win for the whole WA Horticulture industry.
Sam has been named one of Australia’s best horticulture producers. His winning streak began on June 4, when he received the Agritourism Award at the Apple and Pear Australia’s Awards for Excellence. Two days later, he was honoured with the Community Stewardship Award at the Horticulture Awards for Excellence during a special gala dinner marking the conclusion of Australia’s largest horticulture conference—Hort Connections—in Brisbane. Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager for Pomewest, attended the dinner and proudly accepted the award on Sam’s behalf.
"It was such a surprise," said Nardia while sitting with several representatives from WA horticulture at the event. "Sam truly deserves this recognition. After having a decade of close collaboration with him, I can wholeheartedly attest to his positive and engaging personality and deep passion for the fresh produce industry. He and his family have transformed Donnybrook into a vibrant agritourism destination for local produce in the South West."
As a genuinely honest and hardworking grower and representative of the Pome industry, Sam is fittingly celebrated as he steps down from the Pomewest Committee after more than nine years of dedicated service. Sam was deeply honoured and humbled by the announcement of both awards, dedicating his triumphs to his family and the enduring legacy of generations before him.
“I love growing fruit, and to win these awards is amazing... but at the end of the day, I am just doing what I love,” he said.“The ultimate goal is to provide high-quality fruit for the community to enjoy... and to educate the public on what they are eating and where it comes from.
Well done, Sam. You have made us all proud!
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WA apple grower recognition is doubled with another award.
For those who don't know, and there wouldn’t be many, Nicole Giblett (Nic) is a respected WA apple grower who has significantly impacted the Australian apple industry. As a third-generation grower at Newton Orchards in Manjimup, she plays a vital role in the business's operations. Nic embodies a holistic vision of horticulture, valuing people alongside produce and brand recognition. Her commitment to supporting individuals sets her apart. Her work extends beyond orchard management and marketing; she is a prominent voice in regional development and community building. She has served on the boards of organisations including the Fruit West Cooperative and helped establish the Southern Forests Food Council. Although currently she doesn't hold any official positions, Nic remains active in the horticultural sector, frequently sought by government bodies and community leaders for her insights and understanding of regional challenges and opportunities.
Nic too, was delighted to win the APAL award on behalf of all woman in the horticultural sector.
