Young farmers shine at regional finals
Grand Finalists have been selected, all regional finals have concluded, and the journey towards the FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final is underway.
New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Lynda Coppersmith says the stakes for 2022 are incredibly high, being the third contest season impacted by the global pandemic.
Entries for FMG Young Farmer of the Year were up 30% this year despite the uncertainty of Covid.
Coppersmith says this is credit to all the amazing volunteers, members, sponsors and staff who put this contest together.
"My gratitude for everyone's efforts extends beyond words and I am really proud to see how everyone has worked together to deliver another season, to pivot and adapt to new challenges, including the red light framework.
"The calibre of competitors at each regional final is the highest I have seen it and is an extraordinary showcase of the skills and knowledge needed to be involved in the primary industries in this day and age.
"Our competitors represent the full diversity of the primary industries - the array of opportunities available - and goes to show that New Zealand Young Farmers' members really are the best and brightest."
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
OPINION: Canterbury milk processor Synlait is showing no sign of bouncing back from its financial doldrums.
OPINION: It seems every bugger in this country can get an award these days.