2026 Rice Industry Award Winners
Chris & Kate Morshead
CY26 SunRice Grower of the Year
Chris and Kate Morshead of Amberley Pastoral Co near Yenda were recognised with the CY26 SunRice Grower of the Year Award for their innovative approach to rice production, strong business management and commitment to continuous improvement. Third-generation rice growers, Chris and Kate have built a highly efficient and diversified irrigated farming enterprise founded on long-term planning, sustainability and a willingness to embrace new technologies and practices.
The Morshead’s were recognised for their consistent on-farm performance, leadership in aerobic rice production and focus on improving water productivity while maintaining strong yields and profitability. Judges highlighted the couple's disciplined agronomic practices, adoption of precision agriculture and active involvement in research, extension and industry collaboration, demonstrating a shared commitment to advancing the future of Australian rice production.
Port of Melbourne Highest Yield
CY26 Highest Grain Yield Overall
Awarded to Andrew and Leanne Cameron of Kiloran Farming Pty Ltd.
Achieving an impressive 15.4 t/ha across 42 hectares. Their result was 26% above the regional average, exceeding it by 3.15 t/ha.
Organic Crop Acknowledgement Award
Awarded to Bill and Liz Barnhill of WR & EC Barnhill.
Achieving an impressive 10.3 t/ha across 32 hectares.
Yenda Producers Specialist Grain Yield
Topaz Highest Grain Yield
Awarded to the Cauduro Family of Carlisle Park, yielding 11.06T/ha on 31ha. This was 1.19T or 12% above the variety average.
Langi Highest Grain Yield
Awarded to the Badoco Family of J & G Badoco Family Trust, yielding 12.59T/ha on 110ha. This was 2.12T or 20% above the variety average.
Koshihikari Highest Grain Yield
Awarded to Kevin & Mary Warren of KJ & MT Warren, yielding 10.10T/ha on 74ha. This was 1.52T or 18% above the variety average.
Special mentions were also given to Laurie Arthur, recipient of the Grower Industry Contribution Award and Graeme Kruger, named RGA Honorary Councillor.
