By The finalists for the 2024 South Australian Premier’s Food and Beverage Industry Awards have been announced, showcasing the best and brightest in the region’s food and beverage sector. These awards celebrate excellence in innovation, sustainability, and business growth, highlighting the contributions of local businesses to the state’s economy and culture. The winners will be revealed at the prestigious Awards Gala Dinner on November 22, 2024, at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
Recognizing Excellence in Agritourism
The Agritourism Award, a new category this year, recognizes businesses that excel in connecting people to their products through direct on-farm experiences. Finalists include Beerenberg Family Farm, Coorong Wild Seafood – Wildside Tours, Mayura Station – The Tasting Room, Paracombe Premium Perry, and Watervale Hotel – Regenerate Watervale. These businesses have demonstrated outstanding efforts in promoting agritourism and providing unique, immersive experiences for visitors.
Beerenberg Family Farm, known for its high-quality jams and condiments, offers visitors a chance to pick their own strawberries and learn about the farm’s history. Coorong Wild Seafood provides guided tours that showcase sustainable fishing practices and the rich marine life of the Coorong region. Mayura Station’s Tasting Room offers a luxurious dining experience featuring their award-winning Wagyu beef, while Paracombe Premium Perry invites guests to explore their orchard and taste their artisanal ciders. The Watervale Hotel’s Regenerate Watervale initiative combines farm-to-table dining with regenerative agriculture practices, creating a holistic agritourism experience.
Celebrating Business Improvement and Innovation
The Business Improvement Award, sponsored by Visy, honors businesses that have demonstrated measurable improvements and established systems for continued growth. Finalists in this category include Fleurieu Milk Company, Grassland Nutrition, Mike’s Beef Jerky, Orana Australia – PepsiCo Partnership, and The Yoghurt Shop. These companies have shown exceptional commitment to enhancing their operations and achieving sustainable growth.
Fleurieu Milk Company has implemented advanced dairy processing techniques to improve product quality and shelf life. Grassland Nutrition focuses on producing high-quality, nutrient-dense food products using sustainable farming practices. Mike’s Beef Jerky has expanded its product range and distribution channels, while Orana Australia’s partnership with PepsiCo has led to innovative product development and market expansion. The Yoghurt Shop has invested in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities to increase production capacity and meet growing demand.
The Innovation Award, sponsored by Food Processing Equipment, recognizes businesses that have successfully implemented creative and adaptable solutions to add value and create a competitive market advantage. Finalists include Ashton Valley Fresh and Ceravolo Orchards. These companies have leveraged technology and innovative practices to enhance their products and operations.
Supporting Emerging Businesses and Export Excellence
The Emerging Business Award, sponsored by La Casa Del Formaggio, highlights new businesses that demonstrate potential for continued growth and development. Finalists include Cultivate Food and Beverage and Gofalafull. These businesses have shown remarkable progress in a short period, with innovative products and strong market presence.
Cultivate Food and Beverage, a social enterprise, focuses on producing quality food products while creating jobs for people experiencing barriers to employment. Their acquisition of Adelaide Hills Foods has expanded their offerings and market reach. Gofalafull, known for its delicious falafel products, has quickly gained popularity for its commitment to quality and sustainability.
The Export Award, sponsored by the Department of State Development, recognizes businesses that have achieved success in international markets. Finalists include Ashton Valley Fresh, Macro Group Australia, and The Yoghurt Shop. These companies have demonstrated excellence in planning and executing export strategies, contributing to South Australia’s reputation as a producer of high-quality food and beverage products.