The Tasmanian fruit industry acknowledged its 2025 award recipients at the Industry Awards Dinner on 12 June, held during the 33rd Fruit Growers Tasmania Industry Conference in Hobart. The event gathered approximately 130 growers, industry representatives, and their families from across the state to recognise contributions made by individuals at various stages of their agricultural careers.
Nic Hansen, President of Fruit Growers Tasmania, noted the significance of the awards in honouring both emerging and long-serving members of the sector.
© Fruit Growers Tasmania
The Young Grower of the Year Award was presented to Uchitha Godahenges (Bhashi), who manages Costa's Tasmanian blackberry operations. Responsible for the cultivation, maintenance, and harvest of 40 hectares of blackberries—among the largest such operations in the country—Bhashi has led a young team focused on producing consistent, high-quality fruit. Originally from Sri Lanka, she relocated to Tasmania to complete a master's degree at the University of Tasmania before joining the industry.
The Award for Excellence was given to Andrew Smith of R&R Smith and Willie Smith Cider. A fourth-generation orchardist, Smith has overseen R&R Smith's transition to a certified organic apple producer. With nearly three decades as Managing Director, he has played a role in shaping Tasmania's organic apple industry, drawing on experience from orchards in Europe and the United States.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Carl Hansen of Hansen Orchards. Born in 1939 into an apple-growing family, Hansen has been active in the fruit industry for nearly 70 years. He has been involved in adapting orchard operations to meet evolving market demands and technological advancements. Hansen Orchards is known for its long-standing presence in the industry and its continued focus on production and efficiency.
The awards dinner forms part of the broader conference program and aims to highlight achievements within the Tasmanian fruit industry. Fruit Growers Tasmania CEO Peter Cornish acknowledged the contributions of the 2025 award recipients and the significance of their roles in supporting the local fruit sector.
For more information:
Nic Hansen
Tasmanian Fruit Industry
Tel: + 61 (0) 418 127 317
Email: [email protected]
www.fruitgrowerstas.org.au
