KYNETON-based domestic and export meat processor Gary Hardwick was made the Maersk “Distinguished Australian of the Year” at the 2007 Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC) meat industry conference in Queensland last week.The prestigious meat industry award is decided by a committee of former winners.Mr Hardwick was born into a meat processing family. But he and wife Vicki launched out on their own soon after he turned 20 and while still at university studying accounting.In his early days, Mr Hardwick would buy five steers at Newmarket and have them processed at the City Abattoirs. He personally delivered meat to his clients.Thirty-five years later his family-run processing business at Kyneton supplies the southern domestic market and export markets in the Middle East and South East Asia.All five sons have done or do work in the business – Luke is currently chief executive officer, James is financial controller. The Hardwicks source cattle and lambs from south eastern Australia and Tasmania.Meat industry stalwart Allan Teys said while running his own business Mr Hardwick had always found time to contribute to industry outcomes.“He has devoted a lot of personal time to achieving results for the organisations he has represented over the years, as well as the industry itself,” Mr Teys said. “He has always been available to represent the organisation when required whether it is Safemeat, Red Meat Advisory Council, Export Meat Industry Advisory Council, Australian Meat Processor Corporation or on Meat and Livestock Australia committees – he has done it all.”Mr Teys said while strong on his own values, not everyone had always agreed with Mr Hardwick.“But no one can doubt he has set out to achieve what he has believed was right and in the best interests of the domestic and export processing sector.“The dedication of individuals to work on behalf of industry to seek outcomes that benefit all members has been the cornerstone of this award.”AMIC is a merged organisation and represents both the domestic and export meat industry.Mr Hardwick was the first chairman of AMIC and the last chairman of the National Meat Association.AMIC is the peak council that represents retailers, processors, exporters and smallgoods manufacturers in the post-farmgate meat industry.Speaking after the award presentation Mr Hardwick said finished livestock supply and labour shortages were the two key issues currently facing the meat processing industry.As a livestock producer himself, he said he felt for producers during the current drought conditions.“It’s terrible for producers and none are making money. The high cost of grain and the lack of conserved fodder will make it hard until we get decent rain.”
