Ag exchange trip for teens

Malcolm McKerrow, chief executive, Whangarei Agricultural & Pastoral Society says the exchange is in keeping with the society's strategic theme to get young audiences excited about agriculture, and is part of a wider programme by the society to engage teenagers in agriculture.

"This is the second year the exchange has taken place and we are delighted to make the opportunity available for young Northlanders who have already demonstrated an interest in agriculture through the TeenAg Club at their school," McKerrow says.

"During the exchange in August, Alisha and Deana will get the opportunity to spend three days at Nambour State High School participating in normal school activities.

"They will also be involved on the school's farm where they will prepare Show Cattle for Queensland's largest A&P Show – The Ekka. Alisha and Deana will then travel from Nambour on the Sunshine Coast, to Brisbane where they will stay on-site and assist at Ekka's Legendairy Milking Barn. This exhibit is always popular with Ekka visitors as they learn how to milk a cow and get involved with live milking, butter and cream-making demonstrations held throughout the day," he says.

Last year, two students from Nambour High – Madeline Betts and Jasmine Burr – came to New Zealand to assist with the Fresha Valley Suzie Moo Show, an educational demonstration held during the Whangarei A&P Summer Show. Later in the year the society will be hosting two more students from Nambour State High in Northland.