Syngenta congratulates Costa’s Godfrey Dol on being named joint NSW Farmer of the Year
Syngenta congratulates Costa Group’s Technical and Business Development Manager Godfrey Dol on recently being named the joint winner of the NSW Farmer of the Year Award.
Godfrey was recognised for using best practice farm management skills, his extensive expertise and dedication to achieve record tomato yields through climate and water management, biosecurity, varietal selection, and pest and disease management.
He played a key role in selecting the location, establishing, and now managing Costa’s 20 hectare glasshouse facility in Guyra, which produces 12 million kilograms of tomatoes annually.
The greenhouse employs world-leading water efficient practices, using only 12.5 litres of irrigation water to produce 1 kilogram of tomatoes. In comparison, tomatoes grown in field conditions typically use 100-200 litres of water per kilogram. The Guyra facility is also the first in the world to implement large-scale trials of biodegradable string to support plants grown in the glasshouse.
With over 30 years’ experience managing successful glasshouse operations throughout North America, the Middle East and Australia, Godfrey has used his extensive expertise and industry knowledge to integrate new technologies into the glasshouse system.
Reflecting on jointly receiving the NSW Farmer of the Year Award, Godfrey commented that “it is extremely satisfying to be recognised for my contributions to the industry for the last 30 years.”
“I am very proud of the role I played in the creation of one of the biggest glasshouses in Australia, and the social and economic benefits the business has created for the towns of Guyra and Armidale,” he said.
“Having said that, the recognition also belongs with the management and staff that helped build the business. Without them, the business would not be what it is today.”
Syngenta’s Portfolio Manager – Solanaceae & Cucumbers Dion Potter, said he was delighted that Godfrey’s innovative work and expertise has been recognised through the NSW Farmer of the Year Award.
“Godfrey’s passion for sustainable agriculture is evident through the new technologies and growing techniques he introduces into tomato production and he is truly deserving of this accolade,” Dion said.
Tomato Exchange, a business unit of the Costa Group, works closely with Syngenta to bring new tomato genetics to market through constant trialling programs and overseas research visits. Tomato Exchange has developed the Perino™ Brand using Syngenta’s world-leading genetics, which is now a staple brand and product sold throughout Coles supermarkets in Australia.
- Ends -
Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies with more than 28,000 employees in over 90 countries dedicated to our purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Through world-class science, global reach and commitment to our customers we help to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life. For more information about us please go to www.syngenta.com
