"We discussed sustainability, environmental issues and we focused on animal safety," he said.
Mr McManaway said one of the most progressive parts of the conference was the ways in which farmers can help themselves during difficult periods. "The standout issue was the area of where farmers draw inspiration in tough times," he said. "You have to dig deep [sometimes]. Farming isn't about today or the here and now it's about the future."
Mr McManaway said the recent drought which devastated so many farming areas was also a major theme. "You have to prepare for droughts and you need to plan ahead and keep a positive mindset going forward," he said.
"We had some Australian farmers who spoke during the conference who described some horrific droughts they've experienced which have lasted three and four years. Their advice was to make decisions early."
Angus and Emily Crofoot of Castlepoint Station (2012 winners of the Wairarapa Sheep and Beef Business of the Year Award) and Pirinoa farmer Michael Warren were some of the local representatives who attended the conference. Other keynote speakers included Chris Kelly, CEO of Landcorp Ltd, Keith Cooper of Silver Fern Farms and representatives from Fonterra and the ANZ Bank.
Masterton resident and founder of the CatWalk Trust, Catriona Williams, was guest speaker at the event's gala dinner and charity auction, and said she was overwhelmed by the huge amount raised for the sister charities. "The PPP members are literally the salt of the earth. SCIN and CatWalk were proud to be part of a very special evening."
Mr McManaway said the delegation were delighted to support two "remarkable" charities.
"As farmers we know only too well the devastation a spinal injury can cause. We are extremely proud to make a financial contribution to help further research," he said.
