Speakers lined up for expo

Organisers say the Expo will be the biggest yet, with over 90 exhibitors and six different educational seminars at the two-day event.

The expo will be held at Mystery Creek Events Centre on November 19-20.

Speakers will include agribusiness commentator Jacqueline Rowarth and Manawatu dairy farmer and author of ‘The Lean Dairy Farm’, Jana Hocken, who wrote the book to help farmers learn how to run more efficient, profitable dairy units. 

Rowarth is a regular columnist in rural publications including Rural News.

Expo attendees can also hear from social licence consultant Penny Clark-Hall, who will discuss social licence -- rebuilding trust from the ground up. 

Expo organiser Amanda Hodgson says the event will have exhibitor sites and farmers’ seminars during both days. 

“We wanted to deliver a combination of education on effluent management and something for the ‘top few inches’ in our speaker slots this year. 

“Making sure farmers are sorted in their own wellbeing and mental health is crucial,” she said. 

Former All Blacks Coach Sir Graham Henry has been confirmed as the keynote speaker for 4pm Tuesday afternoon. Henry brings a wealth of experience in team and people management, culture and wellbeing. 

Entry will be free for farmers thanks to sponsors Fonterra FarmSource, Rabobank, DairyNZ, Waikato Regional Council and Mystery Creek.

Expo highlights

• Education on effluent, environment and biosecurity and its management 

• Practical seminars run by industry professionals 

• Challenging everyday thinking seminars 

• Live demonstrations 

• Futureproof farm systems through good advice 

• Supported by the dairy industry and regional authorities 

• Over 90 exhibitors plus food and coffee

• Campervan sites available onsite.