Conrad Smith: Farming and sport share similar demands
The challenges of high-performance sport and farming are not as dissimilar as they may first appear.
An invited presentation from a New Zealand professor on Biological Farming was well received by the Hindu business community and investors from around the world.
The presentation was made by Professor Guna Magesan, a New Zealander currently in Fiji, at the second World Hindu Economic Conference on August 10-11, 2013 at Bangkok, Thailand. The theme of the conference was "Strengthening Economy, Shaping Future".
Biological farming is a mix of conventional and organic farming practices involving careful crop and soil monitoring to ensure optimum yields, nutritional density and humus production.
More than 500 industrialists, traders, bankers, technocrats, economists, investors, businessmen and academicians from more than 20 countries participated in the conference. The main aim was to share their knowledge, experience and expertise on business opportunities and creation of wealth.
Following his successful presentation on biological farming, Magesan was approached by a number of investors, business people and landowners from Fiji, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Mauritius, and other African countries to set up large scale biological farming in their respective countries.
Vinod Kumar, a business delegate from New Zealand, says he was very impressed with Magesan's outstanding presentation on Biological Farming. "We need to utilise his services and expertise here in New Zealand," he says.
World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) is an initiative to create and synergise positive and mutually beneficial networking opportunities to facilitate the re-emergence of the wealth and economic prowess globally.
While discussing about his presentation, Magesan says he never knew that there was so much interest among the business community about biological farming.
"It is a welcome change. I hope more landowners from the Pacific region would also follow this trend," he says.
Magesan says his aim is to connect the investors and the landowners, who have common interest in biological farming, to come together and progress so that it is a win-win situation for both parties. It will also help the environment and the economy of the country.
He also says such connections might help in building business partnerships and collaborations.
The stockfood storage capacity of J Swap Stockfoods continues to grow in the South Island with the opening of a new store that boosts its capacity in Christchurch and work starting on another store in Southland.
Fonterra has lifted and narrowed its full year forecast earnings range to 60-70 cents per share after a strong quarter, supported by robust milk production, strong shipment volumes and continued demand across its Ingredients and Foodservice businesses.
Fonterra has announced it will continue with the planned expansion of its organic business into the South Island.
New Zealand farmers have been told they all have amazing people on their farms and have been urged to be “that one person” that can make a huge difference to those going through tough times.
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The Meat Industry Association (MIA) has appointed Nick Beeby as chief executive.

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