INNOVATION LEADERSHIP RECOGNISED AS GPA DIRECTOR HONOURED

Grain Producers Australia Southern Region Director Mark Schilling has been celebrated among South Australia’s grain industry at the SA Grain Industry Awards 2026. 

The Yorke Peninsula grower was recognised with the Innovation Award alongside an impressive cohort of award winners and nominees from across the state at the event hosted by Grain Producers SA (GPSA). 

GPA Chair Barry Large congratulated Mr Schilling on the accolade as a part of GPSA’s initiative that is celebrating the excellence and leadership within the industry. 

“Mark’s dedication to innovation reflects the forward-thinking mindset that will help Australian producers thrive into the future,” Mr Large said.  

“On behalf of GPA, congratulations to Mark and all the winners recognised at this year’s awards.”  

Judges recognised Mr Schilling’s leadership and commitment to adopting new approaches on-farm as key to his personal success and a prime example of innovation in practice in Australian agriculture. 

“I’m deeply honoured to receive this award,” he said.  

“Innovation isn’t just about new tools or technology, it’s about being willing to challenge how we do things so we can build a stronger, more resilient business and industry. 

“I’m proud to stand alongside the nominees and award winners in 2026 who are doing phenomenal work in our regions.”  

Mr Large said the foresight of GPSA to develop the SA Grain Industry Awards would be a continuing legacy for the sector. 

“The great depth of talent and leadership recognised across categories shows just how strong and diverse our industry is,” he said. 

“It’s important we celebrate not only individual achievement but the collective effort that keeps our sector competitive and sustainable.”  

GPA extends its congratulations to all winners at the SA Grain Industry Awards, including: 

• Grain Producer of the Year: Ben Wundersitz – Yorke Peninsula 

• Young Grain Producer of the Year: Sam and Tayla Przibilla – Mid North 

• Women in Grain Award: Sharon Starick – Murraylands 

• Innovation Award: Mark Schilling – Yorke Peninsula 

• Industry Impact Award: Professor Andrew Barr – Adelaide Plains 

• Sustainability Award: Grant Pontifex – Kangaroo Island/ Yorke Peninsula 

• SA Grain Industry Hall of Fame inductees recognised for their enduring contributions to the industry: John Daniel Custance (historic), Andrew Inglis AM and the late Professor Tony Rathjen. 

  
  

GPA also acknowledges the sponsors whose support made the awards possible. 

ENDS 

Further Information: 

GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023 

GPA Southern Region Director Mark Schilling: 0408 859 308