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Five Generations of Farming Gives Taranaki Manawatū Young Farmer Competitive Edge

Written by
NZ Young Farmers

Sheep and beef farmer Kurt Armstrong has a secret weapon heading into this year’s battle to be crowned New Zealand’s top young farmer. 

With five generations of farming knowledge under his belt, Armstrong hopes to secure the top spot at this weekend's Taranaki Manawatū FMG Young Farmer of the Year Regional Final.

The event, set to take place Saturday, February 8th at Stratford A&P Showgrounds is a highlight on the rural calendar, with the competition boasting a strong track record of showcasing the very best talent and skills New Zealand’s food and fibre sector has to offer.

Pictured: Kurt Armstrong before competing at the 2023 Taranaki Manawatu Regional Final

Throughout the day, Armstrong, along with his competitors, will face a series of tough challenges designed to test their practical skills, technical knowledge, and ability to handle pressure. 

An evening buzzer quiz will provide a final opportunity for them to score points, with the top competitor qualifying to represent the Taranaki Manawatū region at July’s Grand Final in Invercargill.

It’s Armstrong’s sixth attempt at the competition and his fourth time qualifying for the Regional Finals. 

Armstrong, who – alongside his sister – recently took over his family’s sheep and beef farm near Feilding, says while he’s confident in his practical skillset, he’s not taking any chances. 

“The competition really tests your overall farming knowledge – you never know what they'll throw at you. I've been spending time at my partner's parents' place to brush up on my dairy knowledge, trying to learn as much as I possibly can before competition day.”

Joining the FMG Young Farmer of the Year contestants at the Regional Finals are the primary-aged AgriKidsNZ and FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year contestants. 

“It's a great way to show students that there is a variety of career options in the food and fibre sector. This industry is incredibly diverse, offering many different pathways and opportunities for them to explore,” says Coppersmith.

Taranaki Manawatū Regional Final Co-Convenor Emma Northcott is keeping tight-lipped on the details of this year’s challenges. 

“Without giving too much away I would say variety is our key aim with this year’s event – there will of course be a couple of challenges that are specific to the Taranaki Manawatū region, but at the end of the day, we’ll be testing a range of different skillsets because we’re looking for the ultimate all-rounder.”

The FMG Young Farmer of the Year contest is proudly supported by FMG, Ravensdown, Woolworths, Ministry for Primary Industries, Milwaukee, Honda, Lincoln University, Massey University, PTS Logistics, New Holland and Bushbuck.

Written by
NZ Young Farmers

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