Editorial: Hunting Policy Misses The Mark
OPINION: As the general election approaches, political parties are churning out policies in the hope of attracting more votes.
Outgoing Federated Farmers national board member Chris Lewis took out the Primary Industry Champion award in Auckland last night.
Lewis has been an elected leader for Feds at regional and national level for 17 years and in recent years has stepped up that voluntary contribution to fellow farmers and the wider industry by highlighting workforce shortages, successfully advocating to government for agricultural worker border exceptions during COVID, encouraging more New Zealanders into the industry and championing the 'Good Boss' campaign.
The award was presented at the Primary Industries Conference awards dinners.
Lewis says it was a special honour - being awarded the Industry Champion Award.
‘The acknowledgement and recognition of my work, but also the work of the wider Federated Farmers team, elected and staff and supporting primary sector industry organisations.
“Thanks to those who nominated me.
“Thanks to the sponsor Norwoods, the judges and of course acknowledge the finalists in this category and other awards.
“Finally this is a huge honour for me, but the team at home, who’s also made big sacrifices, my wife Caroline, kids, parents and our staff on farm, I couldn’t do this without them.”
Also recognised for their contributions were Pamu farm manager Quinn Morgan and Professor Stewart Ledgard, AgResearch.
Morgan has also been outstanding inspiring others - particularly young Maori like himself - to look at a career in the primary industries, as well as giving back to the dairy sector and those who have helped him on his way.
Ledgard has given 40-plus years of science and leadership in soil fertility and environmental management, with a particular focus on helping grassland farmer reduce nitrogen leaching and developing the Overseer tool.
Supply chain problems, growing protectionism and a move to greater food security are some of the key challenges facing New Zealand exporters, according to our top trade negotiator, Vangelis Vitalis.
A spat within the ranks of the New Zealand Deer Farmers Association has resulted in the suspension of outspoken North Canterbury farmer Barry Cuttance.
After delivering a strong financial year, rural trader PGG Wrightson says the coming months will depend on customer confidence and weather.
Beef+Lamb New Zealand and the Ag Emissions Centre have launched a new research project aimed at helping beef farmers reduce methane emissions without impacting productivity or profitability.
The apple sector is working with the Government to unlock access to two key markets that could bring millions in revenue for apple growers.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.

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