Looking out to the Tasman Sea, Hugh Jackson spends his days working on the family farm. 

The returning Grand Finalist moved back to his hometown of Te Akau two years ago. While he’s enjoying the challenge farm life brings, working on the family farm brings an even greater reward. 

“I really enjoyed my time in Southland, but returning home is something special. There is some family history here and it's a pretty cool thing to be a part of.” 

Now, the 26-year-old will be stepping into the spotlight for his chance at FMG Young Farmer of the Year. Season 57 marks his second attempt, and as his current preparation stands, the young sheep and beef farmer has unfinished business.

“Winning the Grand Final is a dream of mine,” Hugh says.

“I’ve been there before and got in the top three, which gave me a bit of confidence knowing that I’m capable of doing it.

“If I can put in the hard yards before July, I’ll give myself every chance to win it. I don’t know when I can enter again, and the old man’s getting older, so it’s starting to feel like it’s now or never.”

Deeply involved in his local Young Farmers club, Hugh spent last year helping with the Regional and Grand Final in Hamilton. Helping design the regional Practical Day and national Technical Day has helped him see how the competition works from behind the scenes – but it’s no unfair advantage. 

“Every season is different, and you never know what to expect.”

Stepping up as Chair for the Hamilton club this year, Hugh hopes his Young Farmers involvement, connections in Southand, and growing experience will help give him that edge. He’s also been practicing with previous winner, Emma Poole, and her husband Chris.

“All of these opportunities I hope will give me an advantage to help prepare me the best I can,” he says. 

“Helping to get the Hamilton City Young Farmers Club to where it’s at now has been super rewarding. Returning with a win for them and the community would be the icing on top.”

With an interest in technology on farm, and a passion for mental health, Hugh is continually working towards growing the farm for the next generation. 

While his dad is sick of shifting bulls, Hugh enjoys the “dog work”. But he hopes, by his father’s age, he’ll be able to shift things using his phone.

“If you’re farming tomorrow the same way you’re farming today, then you’re just getting left behind,” he explains.

“Technology is advancing every day, and there’s some pretty huge opportunities that will allow us to run more profitable and environmentally sustainable businesses going forward.”

“It’s exciting,” he says.

When asked what he’d do if he won FMG Young Farmer of the Year – “shooting home to the farm” is first on his list.

“I would’ve been away for a few days by then,” he laughs. “But as far as trying to help the industry, I’d try and use it to showcase the opportunities that are out there and attract as many good people to farming as possible.”