Ella Matta Pastoral has been awarded the 2025 Farm Biosecurity Producer of the Year, recognised for its strong on-farm biosecurity practices and leadership within the Australian sheep industry.

The award is one of nine presented at the 2025 Australian Biosecurity Awards, which celebrates individuals and organisations contributing to a stronger, more resilient national biosecurity system. The awards are hosted by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

Located on Kangaroo Island, Ella Matta Pastoral is managed by Jamie, Andrew (Aphid) and Tracie Heinrich. The family-run enterprise has implemented a proactive and well-documented biosecurity plan that includes strict protocols for visitors and vehicles, wash-down and boot-cleaning stations, and clear signage throughout the property. These measures reduce the risk of pests, diseases and weeds—protecting their livestock operation and supporting the wider agricultural sector.

The award category is sponsored by the Farm Biosecurity Program, a joint initiative of Animal Health Australia (AHA) and Plant Health Australia (PHA). The program promotes practical, on-farm actions to prevent biosecurity threats, supporting both animal and plant industries.

While Ella Matta’s focus is livestock, their strong practices exemplify the type of risk-based, preventative biosecurity management that benefits all producers, regardless of sector. Clean entry points, effective communication, and a clear biosecurity culture are key tools in reducing pest and disease spread, whether in pastures, crops or production animals.

The Heinrichs also advocate for biosecurity awareness through their involvement in agricultural boards and community outreach. Their leadership shows that producers are at the front line of biosecurity, and that strong practices on individual farms help protect the nation’s biosecurity as a whole.

The 2025 award winners were announced on 5 November at the Ann Harding Conference Centre in Canberra.

For more information, visit agriculture.gov.au/ABA

Click here to watch a video about their work.

Photo: Tracie Heinrich (Ella Matta Pastoral). Photo credit DAFF