First-Farm Buyers Braden and Brigitte Barnes Secure Ownership with Award Support
Braden and Brigitte Barnes have taken the leap into farm ownership to purchase their first farm with support from the Fonterra & ASB First Farm Award.
He was named 2014 Taranaki Farm Manager of the Year and in 2012 he placed third in the New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year competition after winning the West Coast Top of the South regional title.
Michael says he "really wanted to tick the box of winning all three categories".
"Success in the awards has definitely provided us with opportunities we otherwise would not have had.
"We also really enjoy the networking it provides, and it really does give you confidence both personally and in what you are doing on farm."
The Shearers cite their financial discipline and low-input, once-a-day system as their business' greatest strengths. They run a tight ship that is sustainable and profitable in all payouts and say the once-a-day system allows for time out of the shed and off the farm.
"It's important to be able to give your mind a rest from the farm as this helps to keep your head and thoughts clear and remind you what is really important."
The Shearers are 50/50 sharemilkers on Russell Andrews' 225ha Reefton farm milking 500 cows. They won $8,000 in prizes and four merit awards. Entries for the 2025 NZDIA are now open.
West Coast Top of the South Regional Manager Anna Derks says all entrants eligible to win a trip to the Bay of Plenty for the National Final Gala dinner in May 2025. For more information visit the NZDIA website.
