Benefits Add Up in Dairy Awards

More than 400 entries have been received in the 2012 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards, so far.

Entries in the New Zealand Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year, New Zealand Farm Manager of the Year and New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year contests are being accepted online at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz and close on December 20.

National convenor Chris Keeping says 403 entries had been received by December 8, with about 70% of those entering one of the competitions for the first time.

“Past winners will vouch that all entrants win one way or another from their experience with the awards,” Mrs Keeping says.

“Feedback we have received over the years reinforces that all entrants gain from the process of entering and having their skills and business reviewed – this makes the effort and energy required to enter hugely worthwhile.”

She says some of the most common benefits from entering include:
· Increased self confidence

· Meeting and networking with other entrants, sponsors and industry representatives

· Developing a farm business plan and steps to achieve that plan

· Feedback from judges on areas of excellence and areas where they could improve their business

· Substantial prize pools

· Enhanced reputation.


Nearly $140,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to the national winners, while the 12 regional competitions offer prize pools up to $70,000.

The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards are supported by national sponsors Westpac, DairyNZ, Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Fonterra, Honda Motorcycles NZ, LIC, Meridian Energy, Ravensdown and RD1, along with industry partner AgITO.

Entrants first enter one of the 12 regional competitions being held around the country. The three winners from each of those regional competitions will then progress to the national final, which will be held in Auckland in May next year.

More information on the awards can be found at www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz.