INDUSTRY RECOGNITION

Outstanding dedication and commitment

Recognising people who make this industry what it is

At Freshmark, our leadership team brings decades of experience and industry knowledge, driving innovation and excellence in every aspect of our business. From HR support and FreshTest to advocacy and submissions to government, we are committed to setting new standards and shaping the future of the fresh produce industry.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The rich tapestry of our industry has been woven through our Life Members’ unrelenting commitment to fresh produce.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented in recognition of an individual’s outstanding leadership and contribution to the fresh produce sector. This may be a new innovation, new knowledge, or ways to improve professional practice deemed to be above and beyond the every day with a long-lasting impact in the sector.

Col Johnson Young Achievers Award

The Meritorious Service Award is presented at either the FMA AGM or at Hort Connections Gala Dinner to the person who has achieved the criteria for outstanding contribution to the wholesaling sector, their local Chamber, FMA, the Central Markets and the horticulture industry, and who is selected by the Board from nominations submitted by Member Chambers.

There may be only one Award each year, subject to a suitable candidate being nominated and selected. If there are no suitable candidates nominated in a particular year, then the Award will not be presented.

The Col Johnson Young Achiever’s Award, established in 2002, is named after Col Johnson, past Australian Chamber President and Meritorious Service Award winner, who championed the involvement of our younger people in industry affairs through his support for the establishment of younger persons committees in Member Chambers and in initiating the Youth Forum as part of Annual Conferences.

The Award is presented at the FMA AGM or Hort Connections Gala Dinner, to the person who has achieved the criteria and displays potential for the future, and who is selected by the Board from nominations submitted by Member Chambers.

President's Roll of Honour

Each President of The NSW Chamber of Fruit and Vegetables Incorporated is inducted into the Presidents’ Roll of Honour for their service and dedication to advancing the fresh produce industry. 

The Chamber’s first President, founding member Leslie James Jenkins (1935–1939), pioneered the vision that helped grow the industry domestically and internationally for both growers and wholesalers.

In 2020, the Chamber transitioned from an incorporated association to a public company limited by guarantee, resulting in a new Board, updated constitution, and a new name: the NSW Chamber of Fresh Produce Limited. Carlo Trimboli, the last serving President of the Committee, continues his service as Chairperson of The NSW Chamber of Fresh Produce Limited Board.

LJ Jenkins Founding Member

First President of The NSW Chamber of Fruit and Vegetables Incorporated

1935 - 1939

Leslie James Jenkins

1940 - 1941

Walter M Musgrove

1942 - 1944

C Russell Walker

1945 - 1946

Harold p Woodward

1947 - 1950

Joseph J Mason

1951 - 1952

Harold M Gauld

1953 - 1954

N John Kellaway

1955 - 1956

Geoffrey C Pogson

1956 - 1957

C Russel Walker

1957 - 1958

N John Kellaway

1959 - 1961

Richard A Terrill

1964 - 1966

Eric J Milne

1966 - 1969

Richard A Terrill

1969 - 1969

Henry H M Chilton

1969 - 1969

William E Clements

1969 - 1970

Bryan G Clarke

1970 - 1971

Leslie G McGrath

1971 - 1973

Albert G Russell

1973 - 1974

Colin W Johnson

1974 - 1975

Stuart F Dickson

1975 - 1979

Colin W Johnson

1979 - 1985

John E Ewen

1985 - 1986

Graham R Leslie

1986 - 2000

Colin W Johnson

2000 - 2015

William F Chalk

2015 - 2017

Nicholas Martell

2017 - 2018

Heath McInerney

2018 - Present

Carlo Trimboli

Friend of the Chamber - Eric Kime

Eric Kime was awarded the prestigious honorary title of Friend of the Chamber for his unwavering dedication to Sydney Markets, its people, and the fresh produce industry.

He began his career in 1969 as a wholesaler and Chamber member, eventually serving as Director and later Chairman of Sydney Markets Limited until retiring at 78 in 2003. He guided the organisation through major milestones, including construction of the Flemington site in 1975 and privatisation in 1997.

Eric’s passion for Sydney Markets truly defined him. His commitment to community spirit and willingness to help form a legacy we at Freshmark strive to uphold every day. Ultimately, Eric’s drive to keep the Markets strong well into the future has left an indelible mark, and we are forever in his debt.