Entry numbers for the Dairy Trainee category at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) have jumped for 2022, up 60% from the previous year.
The category received 170 entries, including 27 in the Canterbury region, 22 in Waikato and 21 in Southland/Otago.
Nationally, 112 entries were received in the Dairy Manager category and 82 entered Share Farmer of the Year.
NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon says a total of 364 entries were received for the awards.
“It’s a great result, considering the impact covid lockdown had on entry events, and we are really thrilled with the response,” Congdon says.
“Refreshing the Dairy Trainee and Dairy Manager entry criteria and judging process was definitely the right move as we have seen an increase overall in entry numbers, with entrants excited about the changes.”
The numbers ensure strong categories will run in each of the 11 regions, which he says was great for the entrants and the programme.
Waikato region received the highest number of entries, with 60 in total. Canterbury followed closely with 51 entries, while Central Plateau, Southland/Otago, Bay of Plenty and Manawatū received 38, 37, 36 and 30 entries respectively.
“Previous Dairy Industry Award winners continue to make an impact within the dairy industry and many are today’s leaders,” he says.
“All entrants can give themselves a huge pat on the back as they’ve taken an important step in enhancing their career and farm business just by entering the awards.”
Judging (is underway) for the 11 regional categories, with winners announced at dinners throughout the country in March,” he says.
The 33 winners of those categories will then progress through to the national finals in Christchurch in May.
