Green but not much grass!
Dairy farmers in the lower North Island are working on protecting next season, according to Federated Farmers dairy chair Richard McIntyre, who farms just north of the Horowhenua township of Levin.
Outgoing Federated Farmers national board member Chris Lewis took out the Primary Industry Champion award in Auckland last night.
Lewis has been an elected leader for Feds at regional and national level for 17 years and in recent years has stepped up that voluntary contribution to fellow farmers and the wider industry by highlighting workforce shortages, successfully advocating to government for agricultural worker border exceptions during COVID, encouraging more New Zealanders into the industry and championing the 'Good Boss' campaign.
The award was presented at the Primary Industries Conference awards dinners.
Lewis says it was a special honour - being awarded the Industry Champion Award.
‘The acknowledgement and recognition of my work, but also the work of the wider Federated Farmers team, elected and staff and supporting primary sector industry organisations.
“Thanks to those who nominated me.
“Thanks to the sponsor Norwoods, the judges and of course acknowledge the finalists in this category and other awards.
“Finally this is a huge honour for me, but the team at home, who’s also made big sacrifices, my wife Caroline, kids, parents and our staff on farm, I couldn’t do this without them.”
Also recognised for their contributions were Pamu farm manager Quinn Morgan and Professor Stewart Ledgard, AgResearch.
Morgan has also been outstanding inspiring others - particularly young Maori like himself - to look at a career in the primary industries, as well as giving back to the dairy sector and those who have helped him on his way.
Ledgard has given 40-plus years of science and leadership in soil fertility and environmental management, with a particular focus on helping grassland farmer reduce nitrogen leaching and developing the Overseer tool.
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.
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