Farm Safety Improves Through 'Incremental Gain', Says Birkett
Improving health and safety is about incremental gain rather than a sudden decision, says Leeston farmer and Federated Farmers health and safety spokesman David Birkett.
George Dodson, manager of a dairy farm in Hororata, Canterbury, is already sharing his ideas on social media.
"Farm safety isn't about rules, it's about looking after your team, your family and your business.
"I'm enjoying showing what works on my farm, hearing from other farmers and helping normalise a culture where failing safely is part of everyday farming."
Dodson, 2024 Young Farmer of the Year, joins Wairarapa sheep and beef farmer Roger Barton, and winner of the 2022 Ahuwhenua Young Māori Award for sheep and beef Chloe Butcher-Herriesin sharing their own safety experiences, practical tips and lessons learned with other farmers.
They will also be attending local events and speaking to community groups.
Lindy Nelson, Farm Without Harm ambassador and Safer Farms director, says the appointment of the Regional Champions marks a major milestone for the programme.
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"Farmers trust farmers. We were looking for relatable people with strong rural community connections, who are curious and keen to share their own journeys. Roger, Chloe and George really ticked all the boxes.
"Being a Regional Champion is about sharing stories, showing practical solutions and connecting with rural communities. Roger, Chloe and George will be playing a critical role in helping influence change from the ground up."
The Regional Champions role isn't about having all the answers, says Nelson.
"It's about reframing safety and the conversations we want to be having about practical solutions.
"Safer farms are happier, healthier and more productive farms. Our champions will be sharing what they do and what they learn from other farmers, so we can all be better."
The Farm Without Harm strategy takes a practical, real-world approach to health and safety, she says.
"It's not about rules and tick-boxes. It's about solutions that actually work on the ground - learning, trying new things, sharing what works and even acknowledging when it doesn't."
