New regional leader award

Chief executive Jules Benton says more than 70 volunteer regional leaders provide an important point of contact for farmers and play key role in their communities through to organising, hosting and promoting regional events.

They are the face of the network while also in some cases are running million dollar businesses.

They find time to support the Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) and often have to balance family life as well. It is vital they are recognised.

Benton says regional leaders work as part of a team to deliver events that aligned with the DWN values of making it happen, being inclusive, being one of a kind, and standing tall together.  

Becoming a regional leader is an opportunity for leadership experience and to contribute insights and feedback into the dairy industry.

It is a step along a path that may lead into governance, employment or other forms of leadership in the industry or beyond. 

“Regional leaders help us grow vibrant and prosperous communities,” she says.

“We already have the Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year Award which celebrates the outstanding leadership of women in the business of dairy, but we also really needed to acknowledge and thank our regional leaders for all the efforts they make, as so much of it can go under the radar.”  

Benton was happy to welcome insurance brokers Crombie Lockwood as a sponsor to support the awards. 

“They are one of the largest insurance broking companies in the country and are really committed to supporting the rural sector so it’s a great fit.”