Vegetable grower Alan Wilcox remembered for lifetime of service
Pukekohe vegetable growers farewelled 101-year-old Alan Wilcox in late July, celebrating his many achievements and reflecting the widespread respect in which he was held.
Des started James Engineering Ltd over 25 years ago, producing subsoilers and mole ploughs. The company, which he sold a few years ago though it retains his name, has gone on to become a leader in soil aeration equipment in New Zealand, producing a range of well-engineered, high quality machines.
Des was a stalwart of the field days circuit for many years, travelling to each show to display his latest engineering feat.
Located near Gore, James Engineering products are now sold throughout NZ. The company’s equipment is also exported to a number of countries, testimony to the quality of the machinery and to Des James’ visionary thinking.
An extensive profile of Des James, and his contribution to NZ agriculture, will appear soon in Rural News.
