Between running a business, managing a farm, and preparing for his first child, 28-year-old Cameron Smith has plenty on his plate. But rather than slow down, he's setting his sights on the prestigious FMG Young Farmer of the Year title.

“I’m making a game plan for it – I know who I need to talk to, and what I want to do,” Cameron says.

“My wife and I are pretty well known down here in Southland. There’ll be a heap of people cheering us on, so there’ll be a fair bit of pressure with that I reckon. Bring it on!”

Cameron's role as a dairy farmer keeps him busy, but he's not going it alone. His wife, whom he met through school a decade ago, has been steadfast in her support.

With strong connections to last year’s winner, George Dodson, and a Young Farmers Club and community rallying behind him, Cameron has been getting as much advice as he can get through his network of mentors and friends.

“I’m pretty bias, but I reckon Southland is the best place in the country. Like, not only are people good buggers, but they genuinely want to help.”

“While there’s no secrets out there, the competition is still bloody stiff. If you can take out the region of Otago and Southland, you’re probably halfway there to be honest.”

Cameron thinks what gives him his edge is his willingness to give everything a crack. 

“I’ve always wanted to be good at everything, not perfect in a few things. Leading up to the Grand Final, I'm throwing myself into every opportunity I can find to learn."

Currently developing a farm with his wife, the ultimate dream is to one day run his wife’s family farm and a farm of their own as well, so that they can provide opportunities for the next generation. 

“We want to give back to the younger people coming through,” he says. “We’ve all had pretty good farm owners and mentors who have taught us the ropes. We want to create those same opportunities for other people and encourage young people to start their own businesses and succeed.”

Battling adversity as well as finding success, Cameron hopes his positive attitude will help him keep going in the throes of the competition. He and his wife already scored a win at the Dairy Industry Awards last year as Otago Southland Share Farmers of the Year – claiming a prize at FMG Young Farmer of the Year and knowing his Young Farmers Club is rallying behind him, would be the cherry on top.

All that he advocates for leads into what Cameron would do if he won; bridging the rural and urban divide.

“A lot of people in town are interested in farming, but many don’t have exposure to it. We’re really passionate about helping change that.”