Three growers were recognised for their outstanding commitment and contribution to the summerfruit industry at the Summerfruit NZ Conference gala dinner, held in Blenheim in June.
Sam Hobbs was awarded the prestigious Mack Nichol Trophy, which honours young growers making a significant impact in 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 award.
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Together with his sister and mother, Sam runs Hobbs Family Orchard at Hercules Flat, Roxburgh. The family business is a prime example of a successful niche producer, focusing on both heritage and modern summerfruit varieties. Through engaging social media content, a vibrant retail orchard shop, and a highly popular pick-your-own programme, the Hobbs family has built a loyal customer base across Otago and Southland, with nationwide reach through courier distribution.
In addition to his work on the family orchard, Sam plays a key role at Darlings Fruit Ltd. Starting as a casual pruner in 2016, he steadily advanced to become Operations Manager in 2021.
Two Life Membership Awards were presented during the 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, as she presented the award to Stephen.
"For more than 40 years, Stephen has been a cornerstone of the summerfruit industry. Beyond his success as a grower and director, he is the go-to person when difficult industry issues arise. His calm, measured approach and exceptional ability to articulate growers' concerns have earned him widespread respect throughout horticulture circles.
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"Stephen leads by example, surrounded by a loyal team of full-time and seasonal staff who hold him in the highest regard. During the busiest times of the season, you'll always find him on the packhouse floor, working shoulder-to-shoulder with his team."
Summerfruit NZ grower representative Jerf van Beek presented the second Life Membership Award to Roger Brownlie. "Roger's commitment to the summerfruit industry goes far beyond his own orchard," said Jerf. He joined the Summerfruit NZ Board in 2000 and served with unwavering dedication for more than 20 years. His leadership roles included Vice Chair (2017–2020) and Chair (2020 onward).
Roger led Summerfruit NZ through some of its most challenging periods, including the complexities of the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting seasonal labour shortages. His tenure as Chair also coincided with the devastating Cyclone Gabrielle, during which he was a strong advocate for Hawke's Bay growers, all while managing the impact on his own orchard in Bay View. "Beyond his professional achievements, many of you know Roger as a big man with a big heart," Jerf concluded.
© Summerfruit NZFor more information:
Andrew Bristol
Summer Fruit New Zealand
Tel: +64 (0) 21 021 62021
Email: [email protected]
www.summerfruitnz.co.nz
