The Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia has been named the Small Association of the Year at the 2022 Association Awards.
The Association Awards, organised by the Associations Forum, recognises excellence and accomplishment by associations on national level.
Tuesday night’s 2022 Association Awards dinner was held at the Sydney Masonic Centre.
RGA’s executive director Graeme Kruger accepted the award on behalf of the RGA.
“The calibre of nominees was extremely high; it is an incredible honour for the RGA to receive this award and to be recognised on a national platform,” Mr Kruger said.
“The RGA has had a successful few years, facing many challenges such as drought, COVID-19 and more recently flooding.
“Our nimble association has adapted and tackled these head on to ensure the RGA remains fit for purpose, providing value to members and the Australian rice industry.”
These changes have included constitutional changes, a rebrand and organisational restructures.
“This award reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, board, presidents past and present, and of course our members who are the lifeblood of the RGA.”
Mr Kruger thanked John Peacock AM and the Associations Forum team for their continued support and for making the awards night possible, along with the sponsors.
The Associations Forum is the leading organisation assisting associations and charities in governance, operations, membership, and finances.
Established in 2004, it is a commercial, member-based network of 600 associations, charities, clubs, societies and other not-for-profit organisations.
RGA president Peter Herrmann said he was delighted to see the RGA receive this award.
“It is fantastic to see the RGA receive the recognition it deserves,” he said.
“The RGA is an integral part of the Australian rice industry. It is a member focused association; it represents and advocates for the interests of Australian rice growers in their communities.
“This award is a testament to the RGA members, staff and past presidents, particularly Rob Massina and Jeremy Morton who have been pillars of shaping change in our humble association.”