FMG Young Farmer of the Year Season 57
Aorangi: Regional Final
Ashburton A&P Showgrounds
Saturday 29 March 2025
Join the action as contestants from across the NZYF Aorangi Region battle it out for a place at the Season 57 Grand Final.
Everyone is welcome!
Meet the Regional Finalists
Stephanie Le Brocq
Samuel Allen
Daniel Durdle
Gareth McKerchar
At 26, Gareth is a Senior Agri Manager for Ravensdown, working with farmers across the Waitaki Valley and wider South Canterbury region. Raised on a sheep and beef farm near Fairlie, he went on to study a Bachelor of Agriculture at Lincoln University.George Campbell
I work on a mixed sheep, deer, and cropping farm, and hold a Bachelor of Agriculture. Outside of work, I enjoy playing rugby for Waimate and being involved with Young Farmers.Jack Taggart
25-year-old from Mid-Canterbury, born and raised in Ashburton. Currently a Dairy Farm Manager, working towards a future in sharemilking. A Lincoln University graduate with a Diploma in Agriculture, Diploma in Farm Management, and a Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture). Passionate about farming and always keen to tackle hands-on projects—whether mechanical, building-related, or otherwise. Outside of work, enjoys squash, hunting, fishing, boating, skiing, and cycling.James Wilson
Lincoln University Bachelor of Agriculture graduate (2017–2020). I’ve spent the past few years shearing across Southland, Canterbury, and recently in England, where I also competed in shows. With over 10 years’ experience in a range of ag sectors—mostly contract work—I now lease and graze land in Southland over summer. Outside of work, I enjoy shearing competitions, skiing, hunting, golf, and a good beer.Meet our Convenors
Ash Bell
Pendarves Young Farmers
Ash has been heavily involved in NZYF over the years. She is currently a member of the Pendarves Young Farmers club, and is currently on the Aorangi Regional Exec team as the Vice Chair. She has a busy year ahead as she is also our Grand Final Season 55 Convenor!
Ash and Penny aim to make their Regional Final an enjoyable day for contestants, sponsors, module hosts and spectators. They want it to be a chance to show non-members how fun and rewarding Young Farmers can be, and hopefully get some more sign ups!
Meet our Convenors
Daniel Black
Upper Waitaki Young Farmers
I've been a member of NZYF for 5 years, the last 3 as a member of the Upper Waitaki Young Farmers club.
I'm currently working as a fencer general in the Hakataramea Valley and grew up on a sheep stud in western Southland. I signed up to be a convenor because of my passion for competition and previous involvement. My goal for the Regional Final is to provide a great experience for all, showcasing our local agricultural industries and creating a great learning opportunity.
Mikayla Bryant
Upper Waitaki Young Farmers
Currently serving as the vice chairman of Upper Waitaki Young Farmers, I actively participate in tournaments, organise numerous fundraisers, and advocate for broader engagement in the wider regions of young farmers
Taking on the role of convenor, I am driven by a desire to guide our club towards success and enhance its reputation within the Young Farmers community and local regions.
For the upcoming Regional Final in Kurow, my goal is to blend the area's rich farming history with modern techniques, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for contestants, fostering teamwork, and showcasing a diverse range of challenges that incorporate both traditional and precision farming aspects.