Under 35? Win a once-in-a-lifetime farming trip to New Zealand!

There is no better time for the next generation in agriculture to be challenging conventional thinking and preparing for future challenges post-Brexit.

Leaders

The trip, which will take place in February 2019, will enable a group to understand the culture which has helped NZ become world leaders in a globally, competitive agricultural market and to meet the farmers who are excelling in their sector as they look to safeguard their future.

As well as looking at best practice, successful candidates will take a look at the core sectors of dairy, red meat, white meat, arable, fresh produce and agricultural diversifications.

The exclusive placements, worth £7,000 each, are being provided by The Louise Hartley Scholarship Fund following last year’s partnership with JCB which saw an online auction of its Pro Agri Loadall raise £74,000.

The prize includes flights, insurance, accommodation and travel.

The group will report their findings and recommendations to the wider farming community through regular correspondence with Farmers Guardian and at an event to be confirmed at a later date.

In addition to the eight places, Kite Consulting, ForFarmers and New Zealand House will also be sponsoring a further three places.

John Allen, managing partner at Kite, says: “Kite are delighted to be supporting this opportunity for young people to be inspired with new ideas and positively embrace change in the industry.”

Candidates

The competition is open to all young people involved in agriculture and horticulture in the UK and Northern Ireland and aims to recognise individuals who are looking to learn from, influence and motivate the farming industry.

Once the shortlist is established, candidates will be invited for an interview at JCB’s world headquar- ters in Staffordshire in mid-July.

Ben Hartley, Louise’s brother, who farms with his parents on a dairy unit in Lancashire, says: “Modern farmers have a lot going on and sometimes I think we lose focus of what makes our businesses profitable.

“Hopefully this broad-thinking group we are looking to send can find some bit of the Kiwi culture which allows them to make tough decisions and keep adapting.”