January 2005: While his city cousins are just getting up, Kumbia farmer Brett Fresser is probably returning to the house for his breakfast having already been on the job for a few hours. This drive is a reflection on why Brett was honored for his innovative approach to farm management at the end of last year as the 2004 recipient of the Graham Peterson Memorial Award.

Mr Fresser was presented with the award which was launched at the end of 2003 by Pacific Seeds.

Pacific Seeds' territory manager, Maree Crawford said the award marks the memory of one of the most respected farmers in the Burnett.

"Graham Peterson passed away in 2003, and the Peterson family have been innovators in farming and assisted many young farmers to achieve success through doing things differently," she said.

"But more importantly, as "Stumpy" would say, it's about "getting young farmers to have a go.""

Mr Fresser, the son of Darryl and Gwen Fresser farms at the family's Kumbia property and won the award for innovation in farming.

"Brett has assisted to improve the family farming enterprise through using new farming practices, technology and irrigation," Ms Crawford said.

"He is recognised by others in the industry as a leader in the field of agriculture."
The Fressers have also been innovators in the implementation of the successful use of controlled traffic over contour banks.

Mr Fresser faced some tough competition in winning the award.
The other nominees included Brian and Warren Jones, Memerambi; Michael Guse, Wondai; Chris Johnston, Kumbia; Peter and Ian Crawford, Kumbia.

Last year this prize was awarded to Scott Henschen for his outstanding achievements in farming.

Caption: Kumbia farmer Brett Fresser is pictured with his trophy for winning the 2004 Graham Peterson Memorial Award which was presented by Pacific Seeds territory manager, Maree Crawford.