Hawke’s Bay sheep and beef farmers warned to monitor stock water wells
Sheep and beef farmers in Hawke's Bay are being urged to keep a close eye on the wells that supply water to their stock.
Newly elected Federated Farmers meat and wool group chair Richard Dawkins says he will continue the great work done his predecessor Toby Williams.
The Malborough sheep and beef farmer acknowledged the great work that Williams had done during his two-years and eight-month stint.
Williams was voted out by the meat and wool group at their annual meeting in Christchurch on Wednesday. All roles in Federated Farmers are up for re-election every year – with a three-year term limit. Williams’ ouster came as a surprise.
Dawkins told Rural News that allowing members to run for leadership positions is a strength of Federated Farmers.
“The structure is such that the best man or woman can put their names forward for positions.”
He notes that the meat and wool group is run by 25 people who help the chair and eight-member executive, and they are “a tower house of experience for all”.
“I will ensure that we are hearing a lot from these people going forward.”
Dawkins also confirmed that the ‘Save our Sheep’ campaign, spearheaded by Williams, to stop whole sheep farms being converted to forestry will continue.
Dawkins (35), farms with his wife Jess in the Waihopai Valley near Blenheim.
Coming in at a year-end total at 3088 units, a rise of around 10% over the 2806 total for 2024, the signs are that the New Zealand farm machinery industry is turning the corner after a difficult couple of years.
New Zealand's animal health industry has a new tool addressing a long-standing sustainability issue.
The Government has announced that ACC will be a sponsor of this year's FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition.
As veterinary student numbers grow to help address New Zealand's national workforce shortge, Massey University's School of Veterinary Science is inviting more veterinary practices to partner in training the next generation of vets.
South Island dairy farmers will soon be able to supply organic milk to Fonterra.
Norwood has announced the opening of a new Tasman dealership at Richmond near Nelson next month.

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