The big winners at the 2012 Southland Dairy Industry Awards are newcomers to the province, who share common interests and business strengths.

Rabobank New Zealand Ltd (RNZL) continued to build its rural banking business in 2011, recording net lending growth of $724 million, despite a contraction in the total rural debt market over the same period.

Fonterra Cooperative Limited yesterday outlined details of its Group Strategy Refresh which aims to grow volumes and value by focusing more tightly on emerging markets and products that meet growing consumer demand for dairy nutrition.

The dairy industry is working hard but struggling to implement its much-heralded effluent code of practice and design standards, says irrigation industry stalwart Stuart Reid.

Growing people is foremost for Taranaki farmer Barbara Kuriger, named first-ever Dairy Woman of the Year. She received the award last week at the Dairy Womens Network conference in Rotorua.

THE RURAL real estate market is seeing a sustained recovery in turnover and price, judging by the latest figures from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand.

The science on fresh water quality is confusing and complex, says Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Jan Wright. 

AS A tropical storm raged outside, speakers at the launch of Fonterra's Milk for Schools scheme last Monday paid tribute to the dairy farmers making it possible.

RURAL COMMUNITIES will be better represented on local councils as part of a major reform package announced last week by former Local Government Minister Nick Smith.

THE 2012 Waikato Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year, Barry and Nicky McTamney, take the next step in their dairy farming career in June when they enter an equity partnership.