The awards highlight and reward the valuable contributions that individuals, communities and businesses make throughout regional and rural Victoria.
The Regional Fruit Fly Project was founded in 2017 to combat the Queensland Fruit Fly, a pest that threatens the region’s multi-million dollar horticulture industry.
As a result, the GMV has seen a 50 per cent reduction of the Queensland Fruit Fly over the past two years, and a 40 per cent increase in Australian stone fruit exports.
GMV regional fruit fly co-ordinator Ross Abberfield said the calibre of the award’s finalists highlighted the depth of community projects across the entire state.
"The awards recognise the many and varied community projects and achievements that contribute to making regional Victoria a better place to work, live and do business so we are thrilled to be named a finalist from an exceptionally strong field," he said.
"The shires of Campaspe, Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie, Moira and Berrigan have displayed leadership and a real commitment to strengthening the region’s horticultural industry by coming together and taking action."
Overall award winners will be announced at a gala presentation dinner in Melbourne in October.
For more information on the GMV Regional Fruit Fly project or QFF control measures visit gmv-qldfruitfly.com.au
