Karoonda, SA – February 14, 2024 – The prestigious David Roget Award for Excellence was presented to two outstanding individuals at the recent Mallee Sustainable Farming (MSF) Research Update in Karoonda. This award recognised their exceptional contributions to sustainable agriculture in the Mallee region.

This year for the first time two recipients, Bill Davoren and Tanja Morgan, were recognised as having both played pivotal roles in shaping the landscape of Mallee farming through their unwavering commitment to agricultural research, communication, and farmer support.

Bill Davoren, a Senior Research Technician with CSIRO, was honoured for his significant contributions to sustainable farming practices, particularly in no-till and conservation agriculture. Having worked closely with farmers since the late 1990s, Bill’s research work in the Mallee region has been instrumental in transforming farming systems. Over the course of his career, Bill has been involved in more than 200 trials, helping farmers manage soil, nutrients, and rotations to enhance resilience and productivity. His dedication to the practical application of research has been central to strengthening the connection between the scientific community and Mallee farmers.

Tanja Morgan, MSF’s Communication and Extension Manager, was also awarded for her exceptional work in driving communication and extension activities in the Mallee. As a farmer from Jabuk, Tanja brings her firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by low rainfall farming communities. Since joining MSF in 2017, her passion for ensuring farmers have access to the latest research and resources continues to play a crucial role in improving the sustainability and productivity of Mallee farmers. She has been pivotal to the success of the organisation through her exceptional commitment to the ongoing MSF operation, strengthening the network of Mallee farmers and leveraging innovative communication platforms, including digital media, to reach a broader audience.

Mallee Sustainable Farming Managing Director Jenny Garonne praised both recipients for their dedication and leadership. “Both Bill and Tanja have made a lasting impact on the Mallee farming community,” she said. “Their commitment to improving the sustainability and productivity of farming systems reflects the spirit of the David Roget Award, and we are proud to acknowledge their contributions.”

Both Bill and Tanja expressed their gratitude for the recognition. Bill described the award as a “fantastic honour” and expressed his enthusiasm for the future of farming in the Mallee, while Tanja noted that the award was “a big surprise” and it was rewarding sharing the achievements of Mallee farmers in improving their farming systems.

The David Roget Award, named after the late Dr. David Roget, was established to honour those whose contributions to sustainable agriculture have helped shape the future of farming in the Mallee region.

Mallee Sustainable Farming Deputy Chair Andrew Biele and Managing Director Jenny Garonne present the 2025 David Roget Award for Excellence to joint winners Tanja Morgan and Bill Davoren at the recent Mallee Research Update in Karoonda, SA.