Charlie Nastasi – Farmer of the Year Award
The award is an initiative of FNQ Growers and is named in honour of the late Charlie Nastasi, an innovative mango grower from Biboohra near Mareeba.
Overview
Awarded at the yearly FNQ Growers Gala Dinner hosted in Mareeba, the event also features an exciting, fresh produce charity auction which raises money for local charities. All produce auctioned is grown & supplied directly from FNQ Grower members.
Criteria
1. Oustanding innovation
This award will recognise a Farmer who has demonstrated outstanding innovation in the FNQ Agricultural farming industry.
This can include, but is not limited to, the development of:
- new crops;
- new growing/farming methods;
- adoption of technology to deliver efficiency improvements (in the paddock, packhouse and supply chain).
2. Exceptional leadership
This award will recognise a Farmer who has demonstrated exceptional leadership within their farming business, the Agricultural industry and community.
This can include, but is not limited to:
- leadership in organisations representing their respective commodities (Horticulture, Cane, Broadacre, Livestock etc), or the region broadly;
- representation on key advocacy bodies (relating to their agricultural sector or issues pertaining to Agriculture), at a local, regional or state level;
- leadership or representation on community groups or organisations (local, regional and state level);
- influence or standing in an industry (local, regional and state) outside official roles.
Award nominees are required to demonstrate how they meet one of all the above criteria for each
Interview Questions
Section 1: Outstanding Innovation
Question 1
What new crop, growing method or technology have you introduced on your farm, and how has it improved your business?
Follow-up prompts (if needed):
- What made you decide to try something new?
- How has it changed your efficiency, productivity, or sustainability?
- Was this innovation new to your region or crop?
Question 2
Farming can come with many challenges. Can you share some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how you’ve worked through them to keep your business going and growing?
Follow-up prompts (if needed):
- How have you shown resilience or adapted in tough times?
- Did facing challenges lead to any changes or improvements on your farm?
- Did any innovations help you respond to those challenges?
- Did you have to learn new skills, seek advice, or involve others?
Section 2: Exceptional Leadership
Question 3
What leadership roles have you taken on in the Agricultural industry or your local community, and what impact have you made through those roles?
Follow-up prompts (if needed):
- Are you part of any industry bodies or community groups?
- What outcomes or changes have come from your involvement?
Question 4
How have you supported or inspired others in farming or your community, either through formal roles or by setting an example?
Follow-up prompts (if needed):
- Have you mentored others or shared knowledge?
- How do others see you as a leader or role model?