Five Australians and one New Zealander have been shortlisted for the 2019 award based on their passion for agriculture, strong leadership skills and their vision for the primary industry.
Grant McNaughton, 34, the managing director of McNaughton Farms in Oamaru, North Otago, is the sole New Zealander.
Interviews for the shortlisted applicants will be in Brisbane later next month where nine judges will reduce the group to three finalists.
Networking group Platinum Primary Producers chairman Shane McManaway said the judes are all really excited.
“The calibre of applicants for this year’s award has been superb.
“All six demonstrate great ambition and leadership skills, a desire to improve the industry and an unwavering passion for the ag sector.
“The Zanda McDonald Award is all about helping agriculture’s future leaders unleash their career potential for the greater good of the industry.
The three finalists will be named towards the end of the year and will be invited to attend the PPP Conference in Port Douglas in May. The winner, who gets a $50,000 prize and mentoring package, will be named at the event.
