Cheyne Gillooly appointed CEO of NZ Young Farmers
This morning, NZ Young Farmers (NZYF) has announced that Cheyne Gillooly will take over as its chief executive in June.
New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) has launched a new initiative designed to make it easier for employers to support their young team members by covering their NZYF membership.
The new Employer Supporter offering allows businesses to invest directly in their staff's personal and professional growth by covering the annual $100 NZYF membership fee (reduced to $80 per person for 10 or more employees).
Cheyne Gillooly, chief executive of NZYF, says that supporting the future of the sector starts with supporting the young people who make it possible.
"By offering to cover their membership, employers are showing genuine care for their team's wellbeing and development," Gillooly says.
"It's a simple but powerful way to help them feel valued, connected, and inspired to stay and grow within your business and the wider rural community," he adds.
Through NZYF’s 60-plus clubs across the country, members gain access to a national peer network, leadership and skills development opportunities, and wellbeing support.
Clubs host regular events, workshops, and competitions such as the iconic FMG Young Farmer of the Year, helping members build confidence, resilience, and pride in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.
“Employers who invest in their staff’s NZ Young Farmers membership are also investing in a more motivated and engaged workforce,” says Gillooly.
“It’s about creating workplaces that people want to be part of, where they feel supported not just in their jobs but in their broader personal and professional growth.”
The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.
Twenty-eight emerging leaders from across the horticulture sector spent two days last month learning valuable skills and connecting with industry experts.
There are five entrants in this year’s Young Horticulturist of the Year, competing in a series of technical, practical, business and leadership challenges.
A seasoned horticulturist has been appointed to deliver the Apple Action Plan, a key initiative of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.
New Zealand's citrus growers have been told to compete on the value built into their fruit rather than the volume they grow.
Hawke's Bay fruit growers are being reminded of the need to prepare for whatever the El Niño weather system may bring in the coming months.

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