The search is on to find the Isle of Man’s most forward-looking people in the food, farming and fishing sectors.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) is inviting nominations for the 2018 Food, Farming & Fishing Awards, which are supported by retailer Shoprite.
Nominations should carry a brief overall reason and describe how they meet the awards’ criteria:
For food producers:
- Market focus
- Local food promotion
- Resilience
- Competitiveness
- Use of local produce.
For farmers:
- Efficient and profitable farming
- Meeting consumer demands
- Local food promotion
- Diversification
- Conserving the environment.
For fishing:
- Marketing/branding
- Scientific research and development
- Economics and technical efficiency
- Quality and traceability
- Diversification
- Conserving the environment.
Nominations should be sent to Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer, DEFA, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St John’s, Isle of Man, IM4 3AS, email audrey.fowler@gov.im, by Friday 31 March.
Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
‘Farming, fishing and food production are not only integral to the Island’s history and landscape but key to its future success, too.
‘The Government encourages economic expansion, diversification and innovation and care for the land and the awards support this.
‘They recognise those working hard in traditional industries who are seeking new ways to compete and grow.’
John Lewis, Butchery Operations Manager for Shoprite, commented:
‘Our customers demand high quality, local produce and the awards honour the best of those who supply these.
‘Supporting local produce benefits the Island’s economy and provides long-term sustainability and traceability in our food supply.’
Last year’s winners were James Callow, Ballaherd Farm, Bride (farming), Stephen and Jenny Devereau, Staarvey Farm, Patrick (food) and John and Fiona Anderson, Knockaloe Beg, Patrick (special award for diversification). They cannot be nominated this year.
The awards will be judged by the Minister, Shoprite, DEFA officers and representatives of the industries.
The winners will be announced on Friday 10 August at the Royal Manx Agricultural Show and winners will receive £200 in Shoprite vouchers, trophies and certificates.
