PROMINENT cargo sector figures Zoran Kostadinoski and Andrew Crawford have been honoured at the 2020 Australian Biosecurity Awards.

The awards were held in Canberra on Tuesday night.

Andrew and Zoran each received the Australian Biosecurity Award – Industry category.

Andrew Crawford from the FTA. Credit: Department of Agriculture

This award recognises “individuals, groups or organisations in industry that have demonstrated a significant contribution to maintaining Australia’s biosecurity integrity”.

Mr Kostadinoski said it was “an honor to be nominated and accept the Australian Biosecurity Industry Award 2020”.

“I am grateful to be recognised for outstanding contribution to the integrity of Australian biosecurity system,” he said.

“Thanks to past and present employer CBFCA for providing me the opportunity to operate in this complex border and biosecurity environment. I have a passion for improving and modernising Australia’s end to end biosecurity system which will deliver mutual benefits for government and industry.”

Mr Crawford said it was “quite a surprise to be nominated”.

“To go on and receive such an award is truly one of the highlights of my career,” he said.

“I would like to sincerely thank all those wonderful friends, industry leaders and peers who nominated and supported my application.

I have been in this industry for just on 40 years and have been extremely fortunate to work for some highly respected Australian businesses, alongside some of the sharpest minds in the game.

“This award signifies for me the everchanging Biosecurity landscape and focus that now exists.”

Mr Crawford said he was “real positive change” with the way the Department and industry consult and drive border controls, strategies and efficiencies.

“Import volumes will continue to rise at a significant rate and this ongoing partnership and interaction is critical to our nation’s success,” he said.

“In fact, I truly believe there are additional opportunities for Industry to further contribute to a shared biosecurity responsibility.”