Being at the cutting edge of horticultural technology has helped lead Granite Belt producer Ray Taylor to a top agricultural honour.

The fourth-generation grower, who is the general manager of Taylor Family Produce, was honoured with the Award for Excellence in Technology at the 2023 Australian Farmer of the Year Awards.

Overseeing the production of iceberg lettuce, wombok (Chinese cabbage), celery, cauliflower, and silverbeet, Mr Taylor’s implementation of droughtproofing infrastructure such as dam covers, which reduce evaporation and will likely save about 5.9 million litres of water, lead him to one of the industry’s top prizes.

Leader of the Nationals and Maranoa MP Littleproud said it was pleasing to see an industry leader such as Mr Taylor honoured at last week’s ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra.

“The Granite Belt region is at the forefront of many agricultural developments and it is immensely pleasing to see Ray, and the entire Taylor family, honoured with this award,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Agriculture plays such a vital role in the success of not just the Maranoa electorate, but our entire country and it is pleasing to know the future of the sector is in good hands with people like Ray leading the way.

“I congratulate Ray, the Taylor family and all of this year’s award winners, who are ensuring our agricultural sector remains a world leader.”

Mr Taylor said he was truly humbled to receive this year’s Award for Excellence in Technology.

“I always knew I wanted to farm, and I love seeing what we are achieving every day,” Mr Taylor said.

“It is truly an honour to receive this award, especially given the high quality of this year’s other award winners and entrants.”

Also flying the flag for Queensland at this year’s awards was Tully’s Dr Robert Magarey, who received the 2023 Award for Excellence in Agricultural Research

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 28 June 2023.