Celebrating Excellence Across South Australia’s Grain Industry
The South Australian grain industry is one of the state’s biggest economic drivers, contributing billions to Gross State Product each year and employing tens of thousands across farms, regional communities, and the wider supply chain.
Following the outstanding success of the inaugural South Australian Grain Industry Awards — which drew 300 guests to Adelaide Oval — the event has cemented itself as a major celebration of the people and businesses driving our state’s grain sector forward.
Returning in 2026, the Awards continue to recognise those demonstrating excellence, innovation, leadership and sustainability across the grains value chain. They also honour the industry’s heritage through the South Australian Grain Industry Hall of Fame, acknowledging individuals who have made long-standing and significant contributions to the state’s grain sector.
This year’s event will again bring together producers, researchers, and industry professionals for a night of celebration and recognition. Nominations are now open — get involved by nominating someone who inspires you or exemplifies best practice in our industry.
Key Dates
8 October - Entries Open
10 November - Entries Close
15 November - Finalists Announced
3 February 2026 - Winner's Announced at Gala Dinner at Adelaide Oval
Award Categories & Prizes
Grain Producer of the Year - sponsored by Elders
Prize: $2,000
Young Grain Producer of the Year - sponsored by PIRSA Prize: $2,000
Sustainability Award - sponsored by the SA Drought Hub Prize: Scholarship valued at $7,000
Innovation Award - sponsored by Bayer
Prize: $1,500
Women in Grain Award - sponsored by Bunge
Prize: $1,500
Industry Impact Award - sponsored by Cargill
Prize: $1,500
Nominate for an Award
Award Criteria
Grain Producer of the Year
This award recognises an exceptional grain producer who demonstrates outstanding leadership, innovation, and success in grain production in South Australia. Criteria: •Proven track record of business growth, yield improvement, or profitability •Contribution to the development of the grain industry in South Australia •Adoption of best practices and advanced technologies •Leadership in promoting sustainable grain production methods •Participation in industry groups or community initiatives
Young Grain Producer of the Year
This award highlights a young grain producer (under 40) showing promise and commitment to the future of the industry. Criteria: •Demonstrated success in grain production and farm management •Use of innovative techniques or technologies to improve farm outcomes •Active involvement in industry networks or leadership roles •Passion for contributing to the future of the grain industry •Participation in professional development or learning opportunities
Innovation Award
This award recognises a grain producer who demonstrates best practice in innovation and/or adoption of technology that has transformed or significantly improved their farming operation in South Australia. Criteria: •Champions new, cutting-edge technology or approach to grain production •Proven results in improving efficiency, productivity, or profitability •Positive impact on the industry or farming community •Demonstration of creativity and forward-thinking in overcoming challenges
Sustainability Award
This award celebrates a grain producer or project that has demonstrated significant efforts to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. Criteria: •Adoption of environmental and other sustainable farming practices without sacrificing yield or profitability •Demonstrated environmental benefits or improvements on the farm •Leadership in promoting sustainability within the grain industry •Engagement with environmental programs or sustainability initiatives •Proven commitment to long-term sustainable production
Women in Grain Award
This award recognises a woman in the South Australian grain industry who has made a significant impact through leadership, innovation, or advocacy. Criteria: •Demonstrated leadership in advancing women’s participation in the grain industry •Significant contributions to innovation, sustainability, or business success •Active involvement in mentoring, advocacy, or community engagement •Overcoming challenges or barriers within the industry •Commitment to advancing the role of women in agriculture
Industry Impact Award
This award acknowledges an individual or organisation that has made a substantial and lasting impact on the South Australian grain industry. Criteria: •Significant contributions to the development, success, or promotion of the grain industry •Proven impact on industry-wide practices, policy, or innovation •Demonstrated leadership and advocacy for the industry •Contribution to knowledge sharing, research, or education within the sector •Broad recognition within the grain industry for outstanding contributions
Nominate for the Hall of Fame
The South Australian Grain Industry Hall of Fame recognises individuals, living or posthumous, who have made outstanding and long-lasting contributions to the grain industry. Inductees may include grain producers, industry leaders, researchers, or advocates whose work has shaped the sector and left a significant legacy.
Eligibility:
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Nominees can be living or posthumous
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Must have contributed to the South Australian grain industry over a significant period of time (minimum of 10 years)
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Nominees can come from any part of the grain supply chain, including production, research, education, policy, or advocacy
An initiative of
© 2025 Grain Producers SA
Grain Producers SA
The voice of South Australian growers. Grain Producers SA is the peak industry body representing 4,500 grain farms in South Australia.
E: info@grainproducerssa.com.au
P: 1300 734 884
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431 King William Street
ADELAIDE SA 5000
