Six highly skilled technicians from across Australia and New Zealand have been recognised at the prestigious John Deere Technician of the Year Awards 2025, held in Brisbane.

The fifth annual awards celebrated service and parts specialists who demonstrated exceptional skill, customer service and technical knowledge during two days of intense testing at John Deere’s Australian headquarters in Crestmead, south of Brisbane.

A major milestone was also achieved, with New Zealander Bryce Dickson becoming the first person to win an award three times in different years.

2025 Award Categories

  • Australian Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year
  • New Zealand Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year
  • Australian & New Zealand Parts Technician of the Year
  • Australian & New Zealand Construction & Forestry Service Technician of the Year
  • Australian & New Zealand Service Apprentice of the Year
  • Australian & New Zealand Parts Apprentice of the Year

Recognising Excellence in Service and Support

John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Luke Chandler, said the awards celebrate the vital role technicians play across multiple industries.

“Congratulations to all our Australian winners, who have shown exceptional technical knowledge, customer focus and ability to solve problems under pressure. They are the people who keep our customers moving every day and it’s fantastic to see their talent and hard work acknowledged,” Mr Chandler said.

He also praised the calibre of every finalist:
“I also want to recognise every finalist who competed this week. The finals process is rigorous and designed to test even the most experienced technicians. To reach the finals is a huge achievement and speaks volumes about the capability and commitment of each participant.”

Mr Chandler added:
“Their professionalism and problem-solving ability ensure farmers, contractors and businesses can achieve more with their equipment.”

He extended special recognition to Bryce Dickson of Brandt, Whangārei, New Zealand, who claimed the NZ Agriculture and Turf Service Technician of the Year award for the third time.
“Bryce is committed to being the best in his field by consistently challenging himself and continuing to grow his technical expertise in John Deere’s suite of precision ag technology and equipment.”

Celebrating Diverse Career Journeys

John Deere ANZ Customer Support Business Manager, Marko Koelln, said the awards highlight the diversity of people excelling in technical careers.

“Our finalists come from a wide range of backgrounds, with many starting their careers in different industries before finding their calling as technicians,” Mr Koelln said.
“What unites them all is a passion for learning, a drive to deliver great service, and a genuine connection to the customers and communities they support. That’s what makes these awards so important. They shine a light on the people who keep our customers running.”

2025 John Deere Technician of the Year Winners

Australian Agriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year

Daniel Popovici, AFGRI Equipment, Albany, WA
Starting his career in Romania, Daniel developed a fascination with engines and machinery from an early age. Now at AFGRI Equipment in Albany, his dedication and skill have earned him Australia’s top service technician title.

“This is a huge boost,” Daniel said.
“As a technician, we do our jobs, and we don't always receive thanks. This event is amazing, and it really feels good to be recognised for those long hours through harvest and those long weekends – it’s seven days a week and it’s absolutely amazing to win.”

Daniel’s win is also celebrated in Romania, where both his father and brother work at a John Deere dealership.
“My father will be extremely proud as he already was when the finalists were announced,” he said.

Australian & New Zealand Parts Technician of the Year

Poppy Blohm, AFGRI Equipment, Narrogin, WA
From winning Parts Apprentice of the Year in 2023 to now claiming the overall Parts Technician of the Year, Poppy’s career has gone from strength to strength.

“I was surprised last time I won, and I’m surprised tonight too,” she said.

Her empathy and customer-first approach have made her a standout.
“Farming is these people's livelihoods… giving them a tiny little part that might get them up and running again means a lot to them and that's the satisfaction and biggest return.”

Australian & New Zealand Construction & Forestry Service Technician of the Year

Damian Aspinall, RDO Equipment, Roma, QLD
Raised around machinery in Northwest Queensland, Damian turned his passion into a thriving career.

“I’m over the moon,” he said.
“This award is a big thanks to all the team back in Roma. Without them I wouldn’t be here. Everyone in the team relies on everyone and we all learn from each other.”

Australian & New Zealand Service Apprentice of the Year

Henry Barkley, Haeusler’s, Mildura, VIC
After early farm experience and an apprenticeship, Henry has built a strong career path in agriculture.

“My uncle always said, ‘don't give up when times are tough,’” Henry said.
“It’s been a big year… I’m pretty excited and honoured and feel like I’ve come along way.”

Australian & New Zealand Parts Apprentice of the Year

Olivia Barsley, Hutcheon & Pearce, Cowra, NSW
Despite growing up in Perth’s CBD, Olivia found her calling in agriculture and has excelled at Hutcheon & Pearce.

“I really still can’t believe it,” she said.
“But it’s really thanks to everyone at work pushing me to get out and have a go.”

About the Awards

First launched in 2021, the John Deere Technician of the Year Awards celebrate the outstanding contribution of service and parts technicians across agriculture, turf, construction and forestry in Australia and New Zealand.


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