Alliance Group faces crucial vote on Dawn Meats deal
The future of the Alliance Group is “pretty dark” if the proposed Dawn Meats deal does not go through, says board chair Mark Wynne.
Alliance Group says it has helped to raise more than $42,000 at a recent Ronald McDonald House South Island Supper Club event in Invercargill.
It was announced in January this year that the co-operative would become an official partner of Ronald McDonald House South Island which provides
free accommodation and support to families who need to travel for their child’s medical care.
Guests at the Supper Club event enjoyed a mystery dining experience which saw them dine at exclusive venues such as the window display of H&J Smith Department Store.
“Following the cancellation of the Supper Club events in 2020 due to Covid-19, we were very grateful to be able to bring back this unique dining experience this year,” says Ronald McDonald House South Island chief executive Mandy Kennedy.
“We are so incredibly thankful to Alliance Group, the venues, caterers and chefs, as well as each and every sponsor, auction donor, volunteer and guest who made the Invercargill Supper Club, presented by Alliance Group, such a success.”
Before departing for the mystery dining experience, guests heard from Kat Moses who stayed at the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Southland Hospital when her son Bodhi was born prematurely.
“I was a huge supporter of this charity before, but after my six weeks stay, I cannot even put into words how much respect and love I have for Ronald McDonald House South Island,” she told the diners.
David Surveyor, chief executive of Alliance Group, says Alliance and Ronald McDonald House South Island share common values of care and support.
“We don’t have to go far in talking with farmers or our people to see how this charitable trust has touched the hearts of rural communities,” Surveyor says.
“The Supper Club event was also a great opportunity to showcase our farmers’ products, cooked by some of the region’s best chefs.”
The money raised from the event will go directly to support families who stay at the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Southland Hospital.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to New Zealand's dairy industry, with consumers increasingly interested in how food is produced, not just the quality of the final product.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.
OPINION: The year has started positively for New Zealand dairy farmers and things are likely to get better.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.
New Zealand's new Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, Horowhenua dairy farmer, company director and former Minister of Agriculture, Nathan Guy says the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India is a good deal for the country.

OPINION: If the hand-wringing, cravat and bow-tie wearing commentariat of a left-leaning persuasion had any influence on global markets, we'd…
OPINION: With Winston Peters playing politics with the PM's Indian FTA, all eyes will be on Labour who have the…