The dinner offers the exporting industry an opportunity to recognize exporters who best characterize the industry’s values.
The evening will also provide an opportunity to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to Southland’s export sector.
The Recognition Awards are held every two years and alternate with the Southland Business Excellence Awards.
When accepting the award, Stabicraft Marine founder Paul Adams said the company was pleased with the recognition.
Stabicraft boats are exported worldwide and include clients such as the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Coastguard, Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services and Australian Customs and Border Protection Service.
It began exporting its uniquely constructed boats to British Columbia in 1988.
The company makes approximately 600 boats each year and has 74 employees at its Invercargill factory, as well as a group of approximately 30 dealers worldwide.
Export Southland chairman Gareth Lyness said the Organization Recognition Award was one of the highlights of the evening.
The Export Southland Trust hosted a record number of more than 270 exporters and their supporters at the awards dinner, Mr Lyness said.
“The awards were a fantastic evening recognizing significant contributions as employers brought Southland to the world.”
Prize winners
Air NZ Cargo Service Exports Individual Recognition Award: David McAllister
Mataura Valley Milk Organization Recognition Award: Stabicraft Marine
NZAS Innovation in Export Recognition Award: Space Operations NZ
Recipients of the 2022 DHL & Mataura Valley Milk Mentorships are: Miele Apiaries, Crunchy, Image Boats, Robbies Pickles & Preserves
Recipient of the Graham Dick Memorial Trophy 2022: Tony Laker (posthumous)
Recipients of the 2022 Export Southland Trust Grant: Blueberry Country
– Staff reporter