Fish & chips headline award campaign

THE District Council of Grant’s fish and chips represents Mingbool and Port MacDonnell, which have been nominated for South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year.

An initiative of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions and delivered in partnership with InDaily, the award celebrates towns that demonstrate outstanding agricultural practices and are equally great places to live and work.

District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston said the nominations are a testament to the hard work and resilience of each community.

“During a time when many of our primary producers are doing it tough under ongoing drought conditions, the nominations are a reminder of their continuing contributions and determination,” Mayor Boston said.

In the rich farming area inland, Mingbool is notable for potato production with many of its crops being processed into crisp chips enjoyed across the country. Mingbool also hosts strong dairy, beef, grain farming, forestry and viticulture industries, showcasing the town’s agricultural strength and diversity.

Near South Australia’s southernmost point, Port MacDonnell is best known as Australia’s Southern Rock Lobster capital. The town is home to the largest Southern Rock Lobster fishing fleet in the Southern Hemisphere, consisting of 45 commercial vessels. The fleet generates an estimated $70 million in gross production value each year and supports approximately 1,200 jobs.

Beyond its world-class seafood industry, Port MacDonnell also supports a diverse farming landscape including dairying, beef, sheep, wool, seed, and grain production. Its blend of quality coastal and agricultural practices makes it a standout in regional South Australia.

“Agriculture plays a vital role in both Mingbool and Port MacDonnell, and it’s what makes these towns productive and vibrant, welcoming places to live and work. I encourage everyone to show their support by voting.”

Mingbool and Port MacDonnell are among 97 towns across South Australia competing for the Agricultural Town of the Year title.

Community support is vital to help Port MacDonnell’s fish and Mingbool’s chips progress together to the top 10 of the of the Awards.

Voting is now open to the public. Submit your vote online at www.AgTown.com.au.

Voting closes Friday 20 June 2025.