Massey University trials superior beef genetics in dairy farms with Beef+Lamb NZ
Massey University has begun trialling the use of superior beef genetics in its two dairy farms as part of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's dairy beef progeny test.
Despite experiencing the PSA outbreak first-hand growing up, Animal and Plant Health scholarship winner Sarah Wilson says deciding to study agribusiness was the best decision she could make.
The 19-year-old attributes her enthusiasm to “an awesome ag school teacher, people working in the sector, and growing up in the heart of horticulture” in Te Puke where her family has strong connections with the kiwifruit industry.
Wilson says the outbreak of the bacterial vine disease PSA in 2011 gave her an appreciation for the tools needed to protect crops from harmful pests and diseases.
She says the “sickening hum of chainsaws” echoed in the districts as orchardists were forced to chop down their vines.
Wilson, a third year agribusiness student at Massey University, says it is important consumers understand the value of agrichemicals and the effort that the industry goes to in order to keep consumers safe.
“Each product has been thoroughly researched and industry bodies are always looking at how they can use agrichemicals more efficiently,” she says.
“If we cannot get our products to market due to pest and disease incursions, we have the potential for economic collapse.”
Wilson says she had contemplated taking the “safe option” of a career in business before settling on agribusiness and horticulture.
She says the decision to study agribusiness was “the best decision of my life”, due to the extensive opportunities and career pathways available to her.
“My degree I giving me a broad overview of primary industries that few other degrees can give.”
When she’s finished her studies, Wilson says she wants to add value and make a positive difference to the sector.
The $2,500 scholarship will go towards next year’s study costs.
Animal and Plant Health NZ chief executive Mark Ross says the association is pleased to contribute to the future of someone with so much enthusiasm for agriculture.
“We were impressed with Sarah’s drive and the commitment she showed to enhancing the primary industries,” he says.
“It’s clear that she will be an asset to the industry, and we wish her well with her career”.
A group of meat processing companies, directors and managers have been fined a total of $1.6 million for deliberately and illegally altering exported tallow for profit.
New Zealand’s top cheeses for 2025 have been announced and family-owned, Oamaru-based Whitestone Cheese is the big winner.
Waikato farmer, and Owl Farm demonstration manager, Jo Sheridan is the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
New Zealand’s special agricultural trade envoy Hamish Marr believes the outlook for the dairy sector remains strong.
Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) awards.
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