New Zealand Young Farmers’ is coming back to the Nelson-Tasman region with the launch of a new NZYF club.
Preparations to set up Tasman Valley Young Farmers is in full swing with the help of Federated Farmers Nelson, FMG and Rural Women New Zealand. An initial get-together in early December saw approximately 30 people register their interest to get the club started and join as a member. Since then, interest has blossomed and support from local organisations and businesses has been rolling in.
Tasman Valley Young Farmers’ co-founder, Dallas Bradley, said it’s something young people in the region desperately need.
“There are currently a lot of young people around here who are struggling to get off the farm, meet new people, or socialise outside of their family and work mates,” she said.
Bradley, 23, runs her own contracting business, Farm and Rural Assist, where she works across different industries and farms, helping to fill in any staff gaps.
“Having an NZYF club in our area is going to be extremely beneficial. It provides opportunities to compete in competitions, attend events, boost leadership skills, professionally upskill and create networks that strengthen futures,” she says.
The club already has a core team of 12 people with their roles in the primary industries varying from contract milkers and dairy farmers to horticulture workers, sheep and beef farmers and even a landscaper.
“After the initial meeting, we had tractor contractors, horse riders, vet assistants, rural farm shop workers, hop farmers and rural lifestylers join up as well, which is really exciting to see the diversity of people working in this region,” Bradley said.
“We’re aiming to create an educational social group within the club so we can upskill youth who want to start in the primary industries and build their networks. It will also help those who maybe don’t have the right connections, basic skills or practical skills, or even just prefer to learn in a more hands on, relaxed environment outside of school.”
Those in the Murchison, Tapawera, Richmond and Motueka areas wanting to join Tasman Valley Young Farmers, or organisations wanting to support the club, can like the Facebook page or get in touch with Dallas on 027 826 8593.
