Karl Dean elected new Federated Farmers dairy chair, focuses on sector's future

Dean, who sharemilks with his wife Amie near Leeston in Canterbury, was elected at Federated Farmers annual meeting in Christchurch two weeks ago.

He has previously held roles as Federated Farmers North Canterbury provincial president and vice-chair of the national dairy council.

"It's a real privilege to be elected to the board, and I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity to help lead a constructive and future-focused dairy council," Dean says.

He takes over from Richard McIntyre who stepped down after three years in the role.

"It's been a huge honour to work with Richard McIntyre over the past seven years on the dairy council, and his 12 years of service hasn't gone unnoticed.

"His leadership has helped shape a strong, positive culture, and I'm committed to carrying that legacy forward."

Feds president Wayne Langford says it's exciting to have a capable young leader like Dean stepping up into a national leadership role.

"While he's new to our national team, he's by no means new to Federated Farmers. Dean has held senior leadership roles within our organisation for some time.

"Dean is a highly respected and experienced farmer within his region and has worked his way up from the grassroots.

"I have no doubt he'll make a huge contribution."

Meanwhile Dean's election to the national role saw Bex Green step up as North Canterbury's president.

Green, who contract milks 1000 cows with her husband Blair in Culverden, was the province's vice president under Caroline Amyes.

"Dairy farming is my passion, but I'm really excited that as president I'll get to broaden my horizons and come to grips with the issues in meat, wool and arable as well," Green says.

"In many respects, farmers are farmers no matter what we produce. Many of the issues, challenges or opportunities we have in front of us are shared."

Named Federated Farmers Dairy Advocate of the Year 2024 for her leadership on issues such as a streamlined path to work in the dairy sector for immigrants, Green says she is keen on tackling the challenges within meat, wool and arable.

"I like to have a goal in front of me. That's what keeps me focused and motivated. There's also plenty of support for me to call on when I need it too.

"Federated Farmers have a very strong team in North Canterbury, and we're definitely looking to build on that and grow our membership and engagement in the community."