PEACHESTER farmer and Head of Agriculture at Glasshouse Christian College and owner of Green Valley Fingerlimes, Jade King, has made great strides in recent years. A staunch advocate of agriculture both locally and internationally, the successful finger lime producer and passionate teacher was recently awarded the prestigious Peter Kenny medal at the annual Queensland Agriculture Awards.
Humbled by the recognition, Jade said the recognition very much came as a surprise as she wasn’t expecting to win.
“Initially I wasn’t aware I was nominated, so that came as a surprise and I just thought how lovely someone thought of me. Then I received an email saying I was one of four finalists,” Jade said. “I was already going to Trop Ag so it was great to be able to attend what was a really lovely event.”
Taking home the award was the cherry – or in Jade’s case, finger lime garnish – on top.
Recognising the immense impact Peter Kenny made within the industry, Jade shared she hopes she can do justice to the award and put the bursary to good use.
Peter’s sister, Hillary, explained that when it came time to sit together to work out who would be awarded the medal, the family were united in selecting Jade. “That was just incredible to hear and I hope I can do justice to Peter Kenny and everything he stood for.”
In terms of where the bursary money will be directed, Jade said she has some ideas but would love the input from the Kenny family.
“When you get to meet the family of a man you admire and which the award honours, it’s very special.”
In her acceptance speech, Jade thanked the Queensland Government for the support, sharing she hoped the government is proud of every person in the room, and everyone in the agricultural industry throughout the state.
Jade is the owner of Peachester farm Green Valley Fingerlimes and is passionate about representing and creating awareness for the native Australian fruit.
She has travelled all over the world, with upcoming plans to travel to the USA, where she plans to share a range of Australian research into the fruit.
“It’s already gone overseas [farming of finger limes] – we can’t get it back, but we can showcase that it’s Australian,” Jade said. “I’m pretty amazed with awareness for the fruit, but it’s just about getting it out there and known. To the rest of the world, our region is astounding and that’s fantastic to hear.”
“I’m privileged to be a part of agriculture – in education, growing… I love it all.”