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At the beginning of the year, Rural News judged Federated Farmers of New Zealand (FFNZ) as the most media-friendly organisation during 2012 – by a country mile. This is great recognition for a tremendous effort. When one considers the size of the organisation in comparison with some of New Zealand’s agricultural companies, the output is remarkable. And it hasn’t just been reactionary statements, it has also been think-pieces.
Bruce Wills has columns which appear in a wide variety of places; increasingly Feds board members have been active as well. Already this year, Conor English, Fed’s chief executive, has had a by-line as a commentator in the New Zealand Herald on the issue of urban sprawl. The raising of ideas and opinion is commendable. It is also important for increasing rural-urban understanding.
Given the importance of this understanding, it is surprising more farmers aren’t supporting the work of Fed Farmers by becoming members. The federation has about 27,000 members and the subscription is $120.59 (incl. GST). Fewer than 60% of pastoral farmers are members.
A similar comment can be made about NZ Grassland Association, which is focussed on information exchange between farmers, industry personnel, policy makers and researchers, as well as society in general. From the association evidence-based material is through talks and media articles. Despite this, membership is fewer han 1000 (the subscription is $30.85 incl. GST).
The importance of numbers is the politicians’ check. The greater the representation, the greater the chance of being taken seriously – which is an important point given that rural New Zealand is an increasingly small proportion of the population.
That Feds and NZGA have any impact at all (given the urban population at approaching 4 million) reflects history and the motivation and experience of the people involved. It also reflects the fact that both organisations deal in evidence and facts. All of New Zealand benefits, not just farmers – and not just those who have joined up.
‘United we stand, divided we fall’ has been the refrain during periods of adversity since the time of Æsop. Adversity is not going to go away. Achieving understanding will take a collective effort. Supporting the groups making a difference could be a New Year’s resolution of the type that is easy to keep.
• Jacqueline Rowarth is Professor of Agribusiness, The University of Waikato. She is also President of NZ Grassland Association www.grassland.org.nz
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