Growers recognised for contribution

The sun shone down on visitors and exhibitors alike at last month's Karragullen Expo.

Organised by the Hills Orchard Improvement Group, president Bruno DelSimone praised the efforts of expo committee members present and past for their involvement and the continuing success of the event.

On the day, long-time fruit industry champion Harry Morgan was recognised for his service to industry.

Mr Morgan said WA fruit was renowned around the world for its eating quality.

"The quality of WA fruit is of the highest standard and you can be completely satisfied of that, " he said.

Mr Morgan said Granny Smith apples grown in WA were of a particularly high global standard, because of local soils and climatic conditions.

Reminiscing, he said one of the State's best marketing activities had been the development of unique wooden packaging. He said WA apples were known throughout the world because of their packaging in cases made of either jarrah or karri wood.

"Pink Lady, developed in Donnybrook, is now regarded as the primary eating apple in the world, " he added.

Mr DelSimone also personally thanked Mr Morgan for his mentoring over many years.

This year, 14 local fruit growers were recognised for their contribution to the industry with Pioneer Medallions.

Young Jarrahdale orchardist Jacinta Borg, 17, was selected as this year's John Giumelli Encouragement Award recipient for her positive attitude and dedication to the industry.

AWARD WINNERS

John Giumelli Encouragement Award: Jacinta Maree Borg

Service to industry Award: Harry Morgan

Pioneer medallion recipients: Paola Anile, Domenica Baeli, Esdra Casotti, Neil Casotti, Maria Conti, Catherine Della Franca, Ada Lovella Fawcett, Ronald

Clifford Fawcett, Nancy Furfaro, Bill Gordon, Giuseppe Lerace, Nancy Lerace, Angela Mileti and Tom Price.