Nominations now open for South Australia's Biosecurity Champions
Livestock SA is calling for nominations for the 2026 Biosecurity Farmer of the Year Award, recognising the producers, groups and organisations who are leading the way in protecting South Australia's livestock industry through outstanding biosecurity practices.
Now in its fourth year, the award celebrates those in the red meat and wool sectors who demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding animal health, welfare and the long-term sustainability of the industry.
Livestock SA Chief Executive Officer Travis Tobin said biosecurity was one of the most important responsibilities shared by all livestock producers.
"Strong biosecurity underpins the success and resilience of our state’s livestock industry. Every producer has a role to play in protecting animals, other businesses and market access from the threat of pests, diseases and weeds."
"This award recognises those who are going above and beyond in their day-to-day operations to strengthen biosecurity and set an example for others across the industry. By sharing their experiences and leadership, they help build a stronger and more resilient sector for all South Australians."
Livestock SA Biosecurity Project Officer Tanya Dobrijevic said the quality of biosecurity practices being implemented on farms across the state continues to grow.
"We're seeing producers make biosecurity a routine part of farm management, from maintaining biosecurity plans and keeping accurate records to investing in practical measures that reduce risk and improve animal health outcomes."
"This award is an opportunity to recognise the significant effort many producers are putting into their biosecurity systems and to showcase the innovation, commitment and leadership that exists across the industry."
To be eligible, nominees must:
- Undertake biosecurity planning for their property/business and have a current farm biosecurity plan.
- Demonstrate farm biosecurity practices in their property/business that reduce the spread of pests, weeds and diseases.
- Show evidence of biosecurity activities (i.e. training, procedures, logs, etc).
- Demonstrate a high level of understanding of animal health and welfare.
- Collaborate with other producers, industry and/or government to improve biosecurity.
Nominations can be submitted in writing or via video and must address the award criteria. https://livestocksa.com.au/livestocksa-projects/biosecurity/biosecurity-farmer-of-the-year
The winner will receive a $1,000 prize and will be automatically nominated for the 2026 Australian Biosecurity Awards.
Previous winners include:
- 2023: Inverbrackie Border Leicester Stud
- 2024: Ella Matta Pastoral
- 2025: Warrawee Park
The award will be presented at the 2026 Livestock SA Industry Dinner on 19 November.
Nominations close 10 September 2026.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit: https://livestocksa.com.au/industry-development/biosecurity/biosecurity-farmer-of-the-year
ENDS
Further information:
Cathy McHugh
Marketing and Media Manager
0412 515 819
About Livestock SA:
Livestock SA is the peak industry body representing South Australia’s livestock producers, including more than 5,200 sheep producers, 2,700 beef cattle producers and several hundred goat producers across the state.
South Australia’s red meat and wool industries contribute approximately $4.49 billion to the state’s economy each year, and employ over 21,000 South Australians, accounting for 28% of all agricultural sector jobs.