Lower North Island farmers “cautiously optimistic” heading into winter – DairyNZ
Cautiously optimistic is how DairyNZ's regional manager for the lower North Island, Mark Laurence describes the mood of farmers in his patch.
Entries in the New Zealand Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year, New Zealand Farm Manager of the Year and New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year are being accepted online at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz. Entries close at midnight on Thursday, December 20.
"There are no late entries, so it's the last chance for people to get their entry in," national convenor Chris Keeping says.
"Once people are entered, they have the opportunity to win great prizes and to progress their career by meeting individuals that can help them achieve their farm, business, and personal goals."
The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards are supported by national sponsors Westpac, DairyNZ, Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Fonterra, Honda Motorcycles NZ, LIC, Meridian Energy, Ravensdown and RD1, along with industry partner AgITO.
Entrants first compete in one of 12 regional competitions held around the country. The three winners from each region then progress to the New Zealand finals. In 2013 the national final will be held in Wellington on May 24.
"The response to this year's awards has been fabulous. We're received 477 entries so far, including 125 entries in the sharemilker/equity farmer contest, 134 in the farm manager contest and 218 from dairy trainees wanting to take the next step in their career."
Keeping expects a similar number of people to enter the 2013 awards as entered this year's contest, when a record 525 people entered.
More information on the awards can be found at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz.
