SA Grain Industry Awards honour outstanding leaders
The state’s top grain producers and industry leaders have been honoured at the 2025 South AustralianGrain Industry Awards, with the announcement of award winners and new Hall of Fame inductees at Adelaide Oval last night.
The Awards, run by Grain Producers SA (GPSA), and now in its second year, was officially opened by the South Australian Premier, Hon Peter Malinauskas MP, in-front of a sold-out crowd of 430 people.
GPSA Chief Executive Officer Brad Perry said the calibre of nominees and finalists reflected the strength and diversity of the state’s grain industry.
“This year we recognised 24 finalists across six award categories, with a record number of high-quality nominations received,” Mr Perry said.
“In several categories, the judging panel simply could not split nominees during the shortlisting process, which speaks volumes about the depth of leadership, innovation and commitment across our grain regions.
“The winners announced tonight are a strong reflection of the broader grain industry - professional, forward-looking and prepared to invest in the future, even through challenging seasons.
“While there can only be one winner in each category, the quality of finalists means every one of them could have been worthy recipients.”
2025 South Australian Grain Industry Award Winners
Grain Producer of the Year (sponsored by Elders)
Ben Wundersitz – Yorke Peninsula
Ben was selected for his long-standing leadership and continued investment in people, systems and outcomes. In 2025, he demonstrated a strong focus on refining farming systems, maintaining productivity in a challenging season and continuing community and industry involvement alongside on-farm performance.
Young Grain Producer of the Year (sponsored by PIRSA)
Sam and Tayla Przibilla – Mid North
Sam and Tayla were highlighted as an exceptional partnership, not only for strengthening and future- proofing their own business, but also for their outstanding community contribution. In 2025, they expanded their operation through the purchase of a seed business and undertook detailed benchmarking and long-term planning.
Women in Grain Award (sponsored by Bunge)
Sharon Starick (Murraylands)
Sharon’s extensive experience in the industry and commitment to giving back to the sector, with her leadership both on and off farm during a challenging 2025 season, left a lasting impression
Innovation Award (sponsored by Bayer)
Mark Schilling (Yorke Peninsula)
Mark’s ability to think outside the square was highlighted, as he has been able to successfully manage multiple facets of his business and focus his innovation in 2025 to achieve strong results.
Industry Impact Award (sponsored by Cargill)
Professor Andrew Barr (Adelaide Plains)
Andrew was recognised for his extensive career in plant breeding and research, and the impact of his leadership in 2025 through mentoring, governance roles and sharing knowledge across the industry.
Sustainability Award (sponsored by the SA Drought Hub)
Grant Pontifex (Kangaroo Island/ Yorke Peninsula)
Grant was recognised for his whole-of-business approach to sustainability in his farming operations across the Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island. His decision-making for positive results during a challenging, lower-rainfall season stood out.
South Australian Grain Industry Hall of Fame Inductees
Three individuals were inducted into the South Australian Grain Industry Hall of Fame, recognising their profound and lasting contributions to the industry:
• Historic Inductee: John Daniel Custance
A foundational figure in agricultural education and research in South Australia, with his legacy linked to Roseworthy Agricultural College and early advances in cropping systems and soil improvement.
• Modern Inductee: Andrew Inglis AM
Recognised for more than 50 years of leadership across farming, research, governance and advocacy, with significant contributions at state, national and international levels.• Modern Inductee: The late Professor Tony Rathjen
Honoured for his extraordinary contribution to grain breeding, genetics and research, including the development of wheat varieties that transformed productivity nationally.
Mr Perry said the growth of the Awards reflected pride in the industry.
“To see this event grow to a sold-out 430-person audience, up from 300 last year, is a clear endorsement of the importance of celebrating our people and telling the story of South Australian grain production,” he said.