Matt was selected from more than 70 broad-acre agronomists across Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Southern New South Wales for the honour.

Elders branch manager Glen Butler said Matt’s work ethic and commitment to the team and his client base were key factors for his nomination.

“It’s been exciting to see Matt’s work in the pasture market over the past few years,” Mr Butler said.

“The time and work Matt has put in to developing pasture blends has had significant benefits to our clients, who have been able to turn over more numbers and capitalise on the strong sheep and cattle prices we’re experiencing lately.”

Matt started with Elders Yarrawonga in October 1999 and will bring up his 20 years service to the company towards the end of next year.

Throughout this time Matt has overseen and mentored numerous junior agronomists and trainees, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers of their own.

“Elders enjoys giving opportunities to young and passionate agronomists through the trainee program and when you can pair them up with experienced mentors like Matt Coffey the benefits to their development are immeasurable,” Mr Butler added.

Matt said he couldn’t have done it without the support of his Elders branch.

“It is a privilege to be part of such an inspiring team of agronomists here,” he said.

“The confidence you gain from each relationship and the support available to you from many senior agronomists makes this job so rewarding.

“I believe it’s this ... that enables us to deliver the best results for our clients.”