Zanda McDonald Award finalists unveiled

The award, now entering its 10^th year, has a commitment to fostering future leaders in agriculture, offering opportunities for growth, mentorship and education.

The finalists represent a mix of talent from both sides of the Tasman hailing from diverse backgrounds.

The New Zealand finalists are Carla Muller, age 31, an agricultural economist and principal consultant for Perrin Ag and former president of NZIPIM, based in Whakatane; Nancy Crawshaw, age 27, an extension officer for Angus Australia and part of the GenAngu Future Leader Program cohort of 2022, based in Nuhaka Northern Hawke’s Bay, and Tim Dangen, age 31, a beef farmer in Muriwai, West Auckland and the 2022 winner of the FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition.

Nancy Crawshaw

The Australian finalists are Caitlin McConnel, age 33, an agribusiness lawyer at Clayton Utz, the chair of the Future Farmer Network and a farmer based in Southeast Queensland; Nick Dunsdon, age 33, a manager of Coban Pastoral Co and rural property agent at GDL based in Cunnamulla, Southwest Queensland; and Tessa Chartres, age 32, the general manager business development for Murray Irrigation Ltd and the chair of the Southwest Music Regional Conservatorium, based in Deniliquin, New South Wales.

Award chairman Shane McManaway says the judges were impressed with the calibre of the latest crop of applicants, and in particular the finalists as the awards approach their tenth year.

“It was wonderful spending time with our shortlist through the interview process. As our industry faces more challenges than ever before, it’s extremely heartening being able to shine a spotlight on those with the skills and talent to help navigate and lead us in the future,” he says.

“We’re thrilled with our 2024 finalists. They’re the cream of the crop and possess the courage and passion that this Award stands for. We’re delighted to welcome them all to the Zanda McDonald Award family,” McManaway adds.

Tim Dangen

Finalists become part of the Award Alumni, and receive ongoing access to mentoring, networking opportunities and support. The six will head to Queenstown in March 2024 for the Awards’ annual Impact Summit, where an Australian and a New Zealand winner will be crowned at a special celebratory evening with industry leaders and award partners.

 The winners will each pick up a personal development package, including a fully personalised mentoring trip in both countries, $10,000 worth of tailored education or further training, media coaching and ongoing networking opportunities.