Farmlands partner with New Zealand Young Farmers

Posted by on 4 April 2014 | Comments

Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited has partnered with New Zealand Young Farmers, in a move that will benefit the next generation of rural leadership.

New Zealand Young Farmers Chief Executive, Terry Copeland says the partnership is fantastic news for the organisation, as the two like-minded groups can work together, with the common purposes of helping foster young New Zealanders into roles of responsibility in the primary sector.

“The announcement between New Zealand Young Farmers and Farmlands is a start of a really good strategic alliance, between two organisations that have a similar outlook on the rural sector,” he says.
“We both believe that promoting excellence, being associated with success and solid brand building are the fundamental building blocks.”

Terry says the new agreement is “more than just a sponsorship relationship”, with “altruistic benefits to both organisations being aligned”.

“This means our two organisations can create some industry good, which at the same time benefits our brand. New Zealand Young Farmers is seeking to link with quality organisations – and in the rural supplies area, we are delighted to be paired with Farmlands.”

The Young Farmer movement has been around even longer than New Zealand’s rural supplies co-operatives. Young Farmer Clubs were established in 1932 and the flagship event, the ANZ Young Farmer Contest, first coming to fruition in 1969. The national final is televised each year and is a staple of rural family viewing.

“So in terms of history, Young Farmers has a very proud tradition of showcasing the rural industry and providing leadership development of young people coming through,” he says.

Initial support from Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited will be seen at the fencing competitions at Young Farmer of the Year, with additional support coming in the form of clothing for the organisation.
“It gives us a point of reference to begin a dialogue – including youth development at secondary school level – and other projects that have mutual benefit,” Terry says.

“Our vision is to provide future rural leaders which will permeate through on-farm, processing and support areas in the primary industry.”

Terry describes the formation of the relationship with Farmlands as “vital”.

“We need a network of positive and vibrant companies and organisations who support us, so we can support them. This is particularly valuable to us, given Farmlands’ national reach and scope.”