John Sutton - Farewell and thank you from the WA apple industry

After 40 years of service, John is retiring from his role as senior technician and valued team member at the Manjimup National Apple Breeding Program. John is well respected in the horticulture community, especially for his contribution to the development of the apple industry over many years.

John at the Bravo Apple Launch in 2016 at Herdsman Fresh, Herdsman WA

John’s rich history with WA apples

John started with the Department 1975 – Commenced at Stoneville Research Station as a Field Assistant, in 1977 he transferred to Middlesex Research Station. In 1979 – Resigned from Department to work in a couple of different locations as an Orchard Manager, both in the Manjimup region.  In 1986 –  rejoined the Department as a Technical Assistant in Manjimup and progressed through the ranks from a Technical Assistant to a Senior Technical Officer.

Over the years John's role has also involved extension, and his presentations to growers at Field Days and Industry events have always been clear factual and practical.  John is knowledgeable and committed - a real team player.  He has always shown empathy to growers which has earned him great industry respect.  John's own personal highlight of those 20 years was working for/with Ally MacKay & the rest of the “fruit team” developing the Pink Lady apple. 

WA apple industry veteran/leader, Harvey Giblett adds his reflection: "John will be missed by the fruit industry because of his vast range of knowledge he accumulated over many years of service.  He was always there when you needed help, and we all know about his marvelous work in the apple breeding program.  We wish John all the best for the future"

John and his expertise will be sorely missed by his work colleagues in the apple breeding team at the Manjimup.  Enjoy your retirement John, from all of us in the WA apple industry.