Alltech Young Leaders in Rural Journalism Award

This career development award enables a young Australian to meet and network with some of the world's top agricultural journalists. It goes to the entrant who best illustrates leadership potential and a genuine commitment to a career in rural journalism.

The award is open to members of ACAJ affiliates who are actively working in the media covering rural or agricultural issues and are 30 years of age or under.

The award was set up in 2006 following the success of an international awards program sponsored by Alltech which sent two journalists from South Africa and Australia to the 2006 IFAJ Congress, held in Norway in August. The Australian recipient was Northern Territory Country Hour presenter Adrienne Francis.

That experience encouraged Alltech and the ACAJ to establish a unique Australian award so that a young journalist from this country can participate in the IFAJ congress every year.

More information: Check with your local rural media organisation to find out about the award and how to enter.

About Alltech

Alltech is a multinational biotechnology company providing natural animal health solutions through nutrition. The company employs more than 1700 people in 85 countries and operates 14 production facilities, including two in the Asia-Pacific region.

Alltech is recognised as one of the leading research-based animal health companies in the world. By focusing on providing natural solutions to real problems, it works to respond to the industry needs and enhance customers' profitability. Alltech is committed to its pioneering ACE program, ensuring its products are safe for the animal, the consumer and the environment.

More information: www.alltech.com/index.cfm

2007 winners

Western Australian journalist Paul Hooper (pictured) was selected in May 2007 as the inaugural winner of the Australian Alltech Young Leaders in Rural Journalism Award.

Based in Perth, Paul is wool, business and transport writer for Farm Weekly. He was selected from a field of outstanding finalists representing state affiliates of the ACAJ.

The other finalists were Brad Pfeffer, Queensland Country Life, Lucy Skuthorpe, The Land, NSW and
Kerrie Lush, ABC Riverland, South Australia.

Paul's prize, sponsored by Alltech and valued at about $5000, covers the costs of his attendance at the IFAJ Congress in Japan from September 16 to 23.