At the Deer Industry NZ conference in Wellington in May the trophy was presented to Irwin in recognition for his service in organising velvet competitions at all levels, his leadership and his efforts to foster branch membership.
Irwin’s first involvement with the industry was as a deer and venison procurement agent in the 1980s. He helped with the early velvet-selling pools and then became Wrightson’s national pool manager.
“Philip’s willingness to pitch in and assist with issues over velvet grading or general farm duties like doing the recording for AI and scanning are well known and go beyond the call of duty.”
John Spiers
Hawke’s Bay Deer Farmers Association
John Spiers, of the Hawke’s Bay Deer Farmers Association, said Irwin became a well-respected person in the Asian velvet markets, a status that was not achieved easily.
“Philip’s willingness to pitch in and assist with issues over velvet grading or general farm duties like doing the recording for AI and scanning are well known and go beyond the call of duty.”
For many years Irwin organised the branch velvet competition and still oversees the North Island velvet competition. He has been held the Hawke’s Bay Deer Farmers’ Association secretary for many years.
He is only the second person to receive life membership of the Hawke’s Bay branch.
