Whanganui-born Downs, a general manager at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise who is head of the Government taskforce behind the agritech plan, is guest speaker at events in Raetihi and Whanganui next Thursday and Friday, July 30 and 31.
They are part of a wider series of get-togethers that began at Mokotuku’s Black Dog Pub on July 9 and wind up at Makoura Lodge at Apiti on August 15.
Whanganui Federated Farmers president Mike Cranstone says it has been a rough start to the year for landowners dealing with the adverse weather conditions and supply chain disruptions of the past six months.
“Farmers have had a tough time of it and we wanted farmers, farm staff and lifestylers to get together for some networking and a bit of a laugh before the season gains momentum.”
Downs has overcome plenty of adversity himself. The former comedian, actor and New Zealander of the Year semi-finalist has battled cancer, which he wrote about in his book A Mild Touch of Cancer.
“We were stoked to attract David back to Whanganui to speak at the two events. He wants to see thriving communities, is connected to the agri-sector and understands the power of staying positive through tough times,” Cranstone says.
The Pride in our Land campaign looks to support rural communities by packaging and promoting what support is on offer and adding some new wellbeing initiatives.
They include a learn to fly-fish session, a Manawatu Rural Support workshop, community barbecues and evening meals and entertainment at venues throughout the region.
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