40 Year Service Awards

40 Year Service Awards

40 years in any industry is a significant milestone. It is an achievement that should be greatly recognised by all, acknowledging many years of service to our industry.

For some, it may seem like a lifetime, and for others, it has gone in a blink of an eye. The fruit and vegetable industry is full of commotion, leaving none with a dull day. It is a generational industry, which sees most working with their families and friends for many years.

Congratulations to the following for receiving their 40 Year Service Awards this year: Joe Amalfi, Salvatore Pignataro, Kathy Missonilidis, Peter Quirke and Annunziato Muscara.

Our very own Board Member, Joe Amalfi, received his award last month and reflected on his time at the Melbourne Market and in the industry.

“The one thing that is strong and prominent in my mind is how quickly time has gone. I’ve still got very good and clear memories of when I started in this industry.”

Joe and his father worked their way up through the ranks, where Joe ended up buying his own business with the support of his father in the background. After several years, Joe sold his company, Brescia Wholesalers, to his brother but has continued to work within the market community.

Joe continued as a fruit specialist, continued in retail and export, and continued being a part of the Fresh State board. He has been extremely active within the Melbourne Market, which is why he believes the time has gone so quickly.

“The industry itself and the people within the industry, the growers, the wholesalers, make the experience. At the end of the day, you are all helping each other; you are all working together. There can be a lot of wins out of being in an industry for 40 years, and I consider that my time contains a great number of wins,” said Joe.

Congratulations to all who have received a 40 Year Service Award this year. We thank you for your time and service within our industry.