Three growers were recognised for their commitment and contribution to the industry at the Summerfruit NZ conference gala dinner, held in Blenheim in June.
Sam Hobbs won the Mack Nichol Trophy, an honour that recognises young growers as they come through the industry.
‘Sam's current involvement in the summerfruit industry is extensive and impressive,’ said Russell Faulkner, Summerfruit NZ exporter representative, who presented Sam with the trophy.
‘Alongside his sister and mother, Sam operates Hobbs Family Orchard at Hercules Flat, Roxburgh. Their business is a fantastic example of a niche producer, focusing on heritage and current summerfruit varieties. Through engaging social media, their retail orchard shop, and a hugely popular 'pick-your-own' programme, they've built a loyal customer base across Otago and Southland, even extending their reach nationwide through courier distribution.
‘Beyond the family business, Sam also plays a crucial role at Darlings Fruit Ltd, where he started as a casual pruner in 2016 and steadily progressed to become their Operations Manager in 2021.’
Two Life Membership Awards were also presented at the conference gala dinner – one to Stephen Darling of Darlings Fruit Ltd, and the other to Roger Brownlie.
‘It's an honour to stand before you tonight to celebrate a truly remarkable individual who has dedicated so much to our industry,’ said Trudi Webb, Summerfruit NZ Chair, who presented the award to Stephen.
‘For more than 40 years, Stephen has been a cornerstone of the summerfruit industry. Beyond his directorships and orchard success, Stephen is widely recognised as the person to call when difficult industry issues arise. His calm, measured demeanour and remarkable ability to articulate the sentiments of growers have earned him deep respect across all horticulture circles.
‘Stephen leads by example with a loyal team of full-time and seasonal staff who hold him and his approach in the highest regard. During the bustling season, you’ll never find him far from the action; he’s always out on the packhouse floor, working shoulder-to-shoulder with his team.’
Summerfruit NZ grower representative, Jerf van Beek, presented Roger with his Life Membership Award.
‘Roger’s commitment to the summerfruit industry extends far beyond his own orchard,’ said Jerf.
‘He joined the Summerfruit NZ Board in 2000, and served with unwavering dedication for more than two decades. His leadership journey within the organisation saw him become Vice Chair from 2017 to 2020, then elected as Chair in 2020.
‘Roger guided Summerfruit NZ through some incredibly challenging times, notably navigating the complexities of Covid-19 restrictions and the seasonal labour issues it presented. His tenure as Chair also coincided with the devastating Cyclone Gabrielle, where he was a staunch advocate for Hawke’s Bay growers, all while dealing with the impact on his own orchard in Bay View.
‘Beyond his professional achievements, many of you will know Roger as a "big man with a big heart".’
Jerf van Beek and Roger Brownlie