There was actually a tie for the title this year – Mr Dol, the technical and business development manager of Blush Tomatoes, sharing the honour with Dubbo merino breeders Matthew and Cherie Coddington.

The award was announced yesterday with Mr Dol recognised as a leader of the nation’s horticulture industry.

“The greenhouse facilities overseen by Mr Dol are state-of-the-art, highlighting how Australian horticulture is at the cutting edge of global research and development,” AUSVEG spokesman Hugh Gurney said.

AUSVEG is Australia’s leading horticultural body representing more than 9000 vegetable and potato growers.

The Guyra glasshouse facility is considered a leader in water and crop efficiency.