The annual New Zealand Biosecurity Awards took place Monday night, recognising outstanding contributions made to protecting our country’s environment and primary sector, by individuals and organisations.

Congratulations to all the finalists and winners, who have used their unique skills to undertake groundbreaking work across biosecurity.

Representing the kiwifruit industry on the night, KVH Chief Executive Leanne Stewart presented the GIA Industry Award to category winners VeritAg, who alongside their collaborating partner, SVS Labs, facilitated the deployment of 220 veterinary practices to support Biosecurity New Zealand’s Mycoplasma bovis (M.bovis) eradication programme.

Congratulations also to Minister’s Biosecurity Award Winner Dr Brian Richardson from Scion, who has made significant contributions to many of New Zealand’s biosecurity responses, weed science and research relating to aerial pesticide applications. He has also contributed to technical advisory groups convened to address significant biosecurity incursions from pests, including the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Painted Apple Moth.

See the full list of winners and finalists here.

Images below: Hon Andrew Hoggard Minister for Biosecurity, Ray Smith Director General, and Stuart Anderson Deputy Director General Biosecurity New Zealand, with Ministers Biosecurity Award winner Dr Brian Richardson (left) and Leanne Stewart with GIA Industry Award winners VeritAg (right).

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