Editorial: Seize Your Destiny
OPINION: Farmers around the country are welcoming the proposed reform of local government.
Newly elected Federated Farmers meat and wool group chair Richard Dawkins says he will continue the great work done his predecessor Toby Williams.
The Malborough sheep and beef farmer acknowledged the great work that Williams had done during his two-years and eight-month stint.
Williams was voted out by the meat and wool group at their annual meeting in Christchurch on Wednesday. All roles in Federated Farmers are up for re-election every year – with a three-year term limit. Williams’ ouster came as a surprise.
Dawkins told Rural News that allowing members to run for leadership positions is a strength of Federated Farmers.
“The structure is such that the best man or woman can put their names forward for positions.”
He notes that the meat and wool group is run by 25 people who help the chair and eight-member executive, and they are “a tower house of experience for all”.
“I will ensure that we are hearing a lot from these people going forward.”
Dawkins also confirmed that the ‘Save our Sheep’ campaign, spearheaded by Williams, to stop whole sheep farms being converted to forestry will continue.
Dawkins (35), farms with his wife Jess in the Waihopai Valley near Blenheim.
Healthy snacking company Rockit has announced Wang Yibo, one of China's most influential celebrities, as its new brand ambassador.
Rabobank has celebrated the tenth anniversary of its AgPathways Programme, with 23 farmers from Otago and Southland gathering for two-and-a-half days to learn new business management and planning skills.
Adopting strategies to reduce worm burden on farm goes hand-in--hand with best practice farm management practices to optimise stock production and performance, veterinarian Andrew Roe says.
Last night saw the winners of the 2026 Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Awards named at a gala dinner at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre.
A 12-month pathway programme has helped kickstart a career in dairy for an 18-year-old student-turned-farmer.
Zespri says its global fruit sales revenue has reached a record NZ$5.9 billion from sales of 248.1 million trays.

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