Farmer of the Year turns 50 next year

Dairy farmer and former Grand Finalist of Farmer of The Year Dean Rabbidge.

The build up to a special anniversary is underway - FMG Young Farmer of the Year is celebrating the the start of the 50th contest season.

It began on September 30 in North Canterbury - the first of many District Contest and Skills Days taking place all over New Zealand before Regional Finals begin in February and the 50th Anniversary Grand Final takes place in July, 2018.

Building on last year's record number of entrants and female competitors, contest organisers believe the enticement of being the 50th FMG Young Farmer of the Year will be a drawcard for an even wider field this year.

Contest chairperson and former Grand Finalist, Dean Rabbidge, says the FMG Young Farmer of the Year was in good heart and remained an iconic event in New Zealand agriculture.

"For 49 years we have seen New Zealand's top agricultural leaders fight it out for the much sought after title," he says.

"It is an honour that can never be revoked and with only 49 names on the winners' board, you can be sure that the competition will be as hot as ever, to be named, the 50th champion."

Mr Rabbidge said the contest, which started out as a national radio quiz in 1969, had undergone many changes, but the challenge remained the same.

"It's the challenge second to none and remains the pinnacle of achievement. We are proud of the history and contribution the contest has made to New Zealand agriculture and I'm sure this year will be no exception."

In a new innovation this year, District Contest and Skills Days will see pairs competing side by side, as a way of encouraging more members to 'have a go'.

Those competing in pairs will not be eligible to compete in Regional Finals, but instead will be able to split practical modules and encourage each other.

"We are all about showcasing agriculture to the next generation and introducing pairs will allow everyone to have a go at the contest while at the same time learning about the importance of agriculture, including the careers it offers," says Mr Rabbidge.

The Grand Final, where the top seven contestants around the country compete against each other, will be hosted by Invercargill and will feature many special celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary, including an exhibition of memorabilia and a function to celebrate past winners and Grand Finalists.

Among those finalists have been Regional Councillors, MPs, Nuffield Scholars and industry leaders.

"It will be a special event," says Mr Rabbidge. "The deep South has always had a special relationship to the Contest and many winners have come from our region.

"There is already excitement building around Invercargill and we know it will attract huge crowds."