Jan Vydra of Australian Fresh Leaf Herbs was named Australia’s Young Farmer of the Year last week, for his commitment to innovation in the local agricultural industry.
The gala, held by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), recognised Vydra’s passion for the industry and his success as a young entrepreneur.
With limited knowledge of the industry, Vydra and his business partner William Pham set up their small herb growing business in Victoria only three and a half years ago. In this short time, Vydra expanded Australian Fresh Leaf Herbs from one basil crop to more than 100,000 bunches of various herbs.
“One of the main goals I would like to achieve through winning this Award is to encourage others that may have apprehensions about the industry to seize opportunities,” he said.
Through their commitment and dedication, Vydra and Pham are now viewed as industry leaders and have also been nominated for the accredited Telstra Business Awards.
Vydra credits their win to their dedication and desire to have a positive impact on the local community and farming industry. He views this win as an opportunity to act as an ambassador for other young people interested in the industry.
“There are lot of exciting prospects for young people in farming and I hope that by raising the profile of the industry it means more people will become involved in farming and agriculture across Australia.”
DAFF aims to promote farmers positively in the community with the annual Farmers of the Year Awards.
