Young winemakers
2015 saw the first ever Young Winemaker of the Year competition held in New Zealand.
The future of New Zealand's horticulture industry could rest with finalists in the 2013 Young Horticulturist of the Year contest.
Professor Jacqueline Rowarth says the life skills contestants learn through the competition sets them on paths to leadership. Her statement launches the search for the 2013 Young Horticulturist of the Year, a contest in which seven finalists will compete at a November grand final.
Finalists (30 years and under) compete for a prize pool of at least $40,000 including a $7500 travel and accommodation package, and a $5500 Massey University study scholarship and travel. The prizes are tempting, the development opportunities are the real reward.
"As far as entering, it was worth it just for the experience alone. Tthe prize package allows for plenty of personal and professional development, plus a whole lot more," says 2012 winner wine-maker Braden Crosby.
The contest enabled him to meet people from other horticultural industries, and to network with industry leaders from Bayer, Fruitfed Supplies, Turners & Growers and Agmardt.
As part of his prize, Braden is preparing for a three month trip to study the vineyards of France, Germany and Italy. Previous finalists have travelled to America, Europe and the UK.
To qualify for the 2013 Young Horticulturist of the Year, contestants need to have already won their sector competition. Entrants will come from their success this year in their horticultural sectors: Floristry NZ Inc, Horticulture NZ's fruit and vegetable sectors, NZ Recreation Association- Amenity Horticulture, Landscaping New Zealand, Nursery and Garden Industry of New Zealand, and NZ Winegrowers.
The role of Young Horticulturist of the Year is recognised and supported by the Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy. "This competition is a great showcase of emerging leaders and talent from across the horticulture industry."
In its ninth year, the contest, managed by the RNZIH Education Trust, is designed to develop the finalists' skills and knowledge and enhance their career opportunities.
"The industry needs, wants and indeed, deserves great people, and they can be seen at this competition," says Rowarth.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.
Rural retailer Farmlands has reported a return to profitability, something the co-operative says shows clear progress in the second year of its five-year strategy.

OPINION: The Greens have taken the high moral ground on the Palestine issue and been leading political agitators in related…
One of the most galling aspects of the tariffs whacked on our farm exports to the US is the fact…