24-year-old James Robbie wasn't always a sheep and beef farmer. The political science graduate traded corporate for cattle three years ago after his love for agriculture brought him home.

Throwing his hat in the ring as a first-time contestant in the East Coast FMG Young Farmer of the Year Regional Finals, Robbie is set to put his skills to the test, backed by a swathe of professional and traditional “boots on the ground” experience. 

The event, set to take place Saturday, March 8th in Masterton 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 above: James Robbie is competing for the first time in the FMG Young Farmer of the Year

Throughout the day, Robbie, 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 East Coast region at July’s Grand Final in Invercargill.

With an impressive prize pool of approximately $90,000 up for grabs for the overall FMG Young Farmer of the Year winner, the stakes are high for those looking to claim the ultimate title in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector.

This season, his first-ever attempt at the competition, Robbie outperformed his rivals in the District Contest, securing his spot in the Regional Finals. 

“I signed up to the competition with no expectations, so you can imagine my surprise when I won it. A lot of kids these days have gone to Lincoln University, and they have a lot of textbook knowledge, but not me!” he laughs. 

Robbie, who works on his family’s sheep and beef station in Tīraumea, is also the Chair of the Puketoi Young Farmers Club. 

“I’m extremely proud to be from the East Coast and I hope to represent the agricultural prowess of this region to the best of my ability at every opportunity I get.”

A huge advocate for “getting out there” and showcasing farming excellence, the current Royal Agricultural Society Eastern Districts Ambassador has big plans for marketing agriculture in its brightest light. 

“To out of towners and those in the industry, I want to convey that agriculture is an incredible industry, and I’m extremely blessed to be a part of it. Anyone can be a farmer, and I think that’s really cool.”

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. 

This year more than 10 primary schools, and 8 high schools from the East Coast region have thrown their hat in the ring.  

East Coast Regional Final Convenor Eve Williams says this year’s contest will be “a real flavour of Wairarapa”. 

“The Regional Final will be based around industries that are strong in the Wairarapa. We have a real cross-section of activities, and the committee is almost entirely alumni, so contestants can expect a selection of greatest hits.”

East Coast Regional Final Convenor and NZYF Alumni, Eve Williams.

Williams says while some things may seem familiar, there’ll be plenty of surprises around every corner. 

“While sheep and beef is strong in our region, so are a whole range of industries like horticulture, nurseries, and beekeeping. Pay attention to that, and you might be prepared for what’s to come.”

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.

Find out more about the East Coast Regional Final here: https://www.youngfarmers.co.nz/regional-finals/east-coast