Ross recognised for native planting efforts

Ross Hawthorne of ANZCO Foods Canterbury is the first recipient of the new Environmental Champions Award at the Ashburton District Community Honours Awards. Site Operations Manager Chris Hindson attended the awards ceremony alongside Ross’s family to celebrate his achievement.

Ross received the award for his conservation work along the banks of the Ashburton River since 2022. His efforts include weed control and planting more than 11,000 native plants in the area.

Ross is an ANZCO Foods Canterbury original, having started on the first day of the site’s first season in December 1994. He currently works as a butcher in the Lamb Slaughterboard team.

ANZCO Foods Canterbury is proud to have supported Ross’s efforts by providing tools and equipment, and Ross says he appreciates having the backing of his employer.

In the photo: Ross Hawthorne (right) and Ashburton Mayor Liz McMillan