Listen to Jamie Mackay's interview with Shane McManaway and Jack Raharuhi on The Country below:
In an unprecedented turn of events, due to the recent postponement of the Platinum Primary Producers (PPP) Conference, the announcement of the award winner was broadcast via video on social media by Zanda McDonald Award Chairman Richard Rains.
"As judges, we were impressed with Jack from the moment we first interviewed him. He is doing some amazing things to develop, coach and mentor his team, and has a natural leadership style that is inspiring and compassionate. We can't wait to see what's next in store for Jack, and look forward to developing his tailored mentoring package with him, which will really help take his career to the next level," said Rains.
Raharuhi was "over the moon" to have received the award, and is particularly excited about spending time with members of the PPP Group, the network of over 150 of Australasia's influential agri-business men and women, of which Zanda McDonald was a foundation member.
"It's just such an incredible honour to win this award. I'm really excited about the insights I'll get into some of the best agriculture companies in the industry," said Raharuhi.
Raharuhi was named as a finalist alongside fellow kiwi James Robertson, 23, Technical Assistant Co-operative Affairs for Fonterra and FMG NZ Young Farmer of the Year 2019 and Australian Dr Elle Moyle, 29, District Veterinarian for Agriculture Victoria, and a 2020 finalist in the Cattle Council Rising Champion initiative.
The award, sponsored by Allflex, Pilatus, CBRE Agribusiness, Westpac, Te Mania Angus Australia and MDH, sees Raharuhi receiving an impressive professional development package which includes a mentoring trip to farming operations and businesses in Australia and New Zealand, media training, $2,000, and membership to the PPP Group.
