An award which recognises journalism showcasing the role of engineering in farming, food and energy production has opened for entries.
Now in its 11th year, the Guild’s IAgrE Award is generously sponsored by the Institution of Agricultural Engineers – the professional body for engineers, scientists, technologists and managers in the land-based sector.
Celebrating BGAJ members with a passion for writing about innovation in the agriculture, horticulture, forestry, amenity or rural environment sectors, the award is now in its eleventh year and carries a £1,500 prize pot.
IAgrE chief executive Charlie Nicklin said: “We believe by supporting the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists Awards we are helping to increase awareness of the Institution and its work promoting professionalism in the development and application of technology in the agricultural industry.
“It is also an opportunity to continue to build relationships with journalists and recognise well authored technical articles about innovation and technology in the sector.”
Entries are limited to one per member reporting on engineering – in all its forms – published between 1 March 2022 and 28 February 2023.
The overall winner will receive a commemorative plaque and £1,000. The runner-up will receive a commemorative plaque and £500. Awards will be presented at the Guild’s Bangers and Beer reception, to be held at this year’s Cereals Event.
The 2022 IAgrE Award winners were honoured at last year’s event.
Freelance journalist Peter Hill was named the winner, with his article, ‘How implements that can control tractors work’, published in Farmers Weekly. Judges said it was ‘well written and comprehensive in detail with many options presented and considered in an easy-to-understand format.’.
They added: “Classic Peter ‘tour de force’, framing the subject and then stepping clearly through the detail and what it means.”
The runner-up prize went to Farmers Weekly machinery writer James Andrews, for his piece, ‘Innovative kit converts slurry emissions into fuel’.
The judges said: “Very interesting and well written and a clear description that identifies the problem and the engineering solution.
“A well presented and researched feature on an innovative solution to the reduction of fossil fuels.”
To enter the Guild’s 2023 IAgrE Award, email one scanned copy or PDF of a published article to IAgrE communications officer and award administrator, Marion King, no later than Friday 12 May 2023. Marion’s email address is marion.king@sky.com. Please email Marion for details of how to submit a broadcast award entry.
