Fieldays’ sustainability credentials getting greener
The New Zealand National Fieldays Society has achieved a major sustainability milestone - reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and reaching the target five years early.
Zespri chief executive Lain Jager is the Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year.
The prestigious agricultural communicator award was presented to Jager at Mystery Creek Fieldays last night.
The award honours those who make a significant contribution to the sector and the role they play in making New Zealand world leaders in primary production.
Jager is credited for running the best business in the primary sector, taking the kiwifruit industry from crisis to global success - now supplying 32% of global trade.
“Lain is one of those natural leaders that can take a nation with him,” says Greg Campbell, Ravensdown chief executive, “his accessibility and ability to connect with people on any level are paramount to his success. The journey Zespri has been on from the PSA outbreak to today is testament to that.”
Jager receives $2500 cash prize from Ravensdown alongside the prestigious pounamu trophy.
In its 31st year, the Ravensdown Agricultural Communicator of the Year Award remains the premier award for agricultural communicators and is run by New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators.
“Communicating the opportunities and challenges facing the agri-sector has never been more important. The industry is full of talented, insightful and enthusiastic individuals who connect with people in a variety of ways. This award is about celebrating all those champions as well as acknowledging the efforts of one individual,” says Campbell.
"That’s why we’re thrilled to be able to support the New Zealand Guild of Agricultural Journalists and Communicators with this award.”
A New Zealand dairy industry leader believes the free trade deal announced with India delivers wins for the sector.
The Coalition Government will need the support of at least one opposition party to ratify the free trade deal with India.
Primary sector leaders have welcomed the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand.
At Pāmu’s Kepler Farm in Manapouri, mating has wrapped up at the across-breed Beef Progeny Test.
More than 150 people turned up at Parliament recently to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Biosecurity New Zealand says Kiwis should continue to keep an eye out for yellow-legged hornets (Vespa velutina) over the holiday season.

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