National convener Chris Keeping said 117 entries were received in the Sharemilker-Equity Farmer contest, 163 entered the Farm Manager competition and 259 entered the Dairy Trainee of the Year contest.
“It’s a great result and we are really thrilled with the response,” Keeping said. “Given the circumstances with a lower forecast milk payout, a challenging spring in some parts of the country and a change to the timing of entries being accepted we are really pleased.
“The numbers ensure strong competitions will run in each of our 11 regions and that is great for the entrants, for the competitions and for us as organisers of the awards.”
Canterbury-North Otago recorded the most entries with 75, and Waikato was second with 64 total entries. Southland-Otago and Manawatu received 59 and 54 entries respectively.
Keeping said preparations were underway for regional judging to begin in the new year. All entrants would be invited to attend events to meet each other and find out what to expect in the judging process.
“All entrants can give themselves a huge pat on the back as they’ve taken an important step in enhancing their career and farm business just by entering the awards.”
Visit www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz for more information and to view a calendar of the regional competitions.
