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Wellington firms named as finalists in prestigious science awardsTwo local firms actively supported by Wellington Shire Council are finalists in this year’s prestigious Science Awards run by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries (DPI). By Wellington Shire Council - 1st March 2004 - Back to News K & C Fisheries of Sale and Robotic Dairies near Rosedale are amongst six finalists for the Hugh McKay Innovators Award, with the winner to be announced by the State’s Agriculture Minister Bob Cameron at a ceremony in Melbourne on Wednesday 3 March.
The award recognises the importance of innovative work carried out by business owners, researchers and enthusiasts in Victoria, which the State Government describes as vital to the sustained, long-term economic growth of agribusiness in the state.
K & C Fisheries is one of the largest carp harvesting companies in the southern hemisphere, processing more than 1,000 tonnes of the fish each year. Owners Keith and Catherine Bell have impressed the judges with their research and development presently under way to build a state-of-the-art Aquatic Development Centre - to secure the carp supplies required to meet national and international demands in niche markets.
Robotic Dairies owners Maxwell and Evelyn Warren have also impressed as the first dairy farmers in the world to introduce milking robots into an extensive pasture grazing system. As well as reducing the level of labour in the dairy, this initiative has seen an improvement in cow health and an increase in milk production. Their dairy is also now a tourist attraction for both local and international visitors.
Said Wellington Chief Executive Officer, Lyndon Webb: "As a council that has itself been recognised for innovation and excellence at the state and national level, particularly in the areas of governance and cultural tourism, we are keen to support and encourage new approaches to business and service delivery in Wellington and Gippsland.
"Therefore we are delighted that these two firms, which have received ongoing advice and support from our Economic Development Unit, have been named as finalists and we wish them every success with the award on Wednesday. They have already done Wellington proud by getting this far in the judging process and have demonstrated what our local businesses can achieve as leaders in their field."
The winner of the Hugh McKay Innovators Award will receive $10,000 and a trophy.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com

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