The 180 delegates set a century record for the biggest attendance ever.
“It’s been a big one,” association general manager Thomas Chin said.
“We’re pretty chuffed to get this support and it just reinforces after 100 years of trading the grain and seed industry remains the cornerstone for our pastoral, arable and horticultural sectors.”
Chin said the importance to NZ of trading grain and seed is at the forefront of all the centenary year celebrations.
President George Gerard said the trade body started life as the NZ Grain, Seed and Produce Merchants’ Federation, which was formed in 1918 to instill market discipline into merchants’ trading affairs.
“A century on the essence and mission of the association remains to provide a strong and united voice on relevant issues affecting members in domestic and export markets,” Gerard said.
A book titled Seeds of Success was launched at the conference.
The 236 pages track progress from the early days when so much heart and soul went into the foundations of the association through to today.
“One of best things about the centenary is the amount of fascinating historical detail that has come to light,” Gerard said.
Back in the mid-80s a prime minister once said the grain and seed trade was a sunset industry.
But 40-odd years on it’s far from being in decline – the seed trade is on the ascendancy with NZ now a world leader in seed development and production.
“What’s more, with breeders developing the best seeds and grains for our customers, NZ growers have been regularly recognised by Guinness World Records listings for achieving the highest crop yields.”
Gerard said the sector is in strong heart with a bright future ahead.
“It is constantly innovating and improving to achieve the best and reinforce our sector’s worldwide reputation for reliability, trustworthiness and quality.
“Celebrating 100 years in any organisation is a massive achievement and the trade is very proud,” he said.
MORE: Seeds of Success can be ordered from the Association’s website nzgsta.co.nz
