Ravensdown Named Naming Rights Sponsor of A&P Show
Farmer owned co-operative Ravensdown has signed a two-year naming rights sponsorship of the Canterbury A&P Show.
Animal healthcare specialist Purtec says it will showcase a range of innovative products at the CD Fieldays.
Products including the No Mate teaser harness designed for use with sheep and goats.
These allow entire males to be placed with females – without the risk of mating. The merits of the device have been praised by Massey Vet School, not least because it removes the need for vasectomies on teaser stock.
The company will also show the Bearin prolapse harness, which achieved great results during the last lambing season. These are described as robust, easy to use and prevent the ewe from lifting its back and straining, which can cause prolapsed bearings. Adjustable fixing straps make the device suitable for ewes or hoggets, making it fit well and keep the bearing profile in place.
According to Spring Valley Farms, which is running a triplet lambing trial: "If a ewe is carrying triplets, saving her and the lambs is a small price to pay for the $25 invested in the harness."
On the dairy side, Purtec's Heatmark ERO heat detectors will be on display.
These also have a loyal following. Users rate the new adhesive applicator, as getting the glue right down to the skin and outperforming self-adhesive detectors. This superior adhesion is said to result in better detection and mating results in all types of stock.
The company will also display a range of animal health applicators including a new needle-free vaccinator which ensures the dose gets to the animal for effective uptake of the administered product. And it removes the risk of site lesions which might become infected after the process if conventional equipment is used.
Celebrating 50 years in the rural landscape of Central Canterbury and beyond, Ashburton-based Carrfields, has been the exemplar for all aspects of modern agriculture via its extensive range of services including supply, growing, agronomic advice and marketing.
For Taupiri dairy farmers Logan and Sian Dawson, their involvement in the NZ Dairy Industry Awards has been a key catalyst in the growth of their business - the experience helping shape how they approach the farm ownership pathway they are pursuing today.
West Otago dairy farmer Luke Kane has been awarded the 2026 Rabobank Dr John Morris Business Development Prize.
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An LIC bull, Tronnoco AR Sadio-ET S3F, bred by Tony and Keri O'Connor of Tronnoco Farming Co Ltd near Timaru, has won the 2026 Mahoe Trophy.
With forecasters advising El Niño conditions will develop through winter and strengthen into spring and summer, Ballance Agri-Nutrients is encouraging farmers and growers to think ahead about nutrient planning and be prepared to work around challenging weather conditions.

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