Lincoln University opened doors for Young Farmers winner

Nigel Woodhead with Te Radar at the FMG Young Farmers Grand Final Opening Ceremony in The Square. Nigel was crowned the 49th winner of this prestigious competition, the only Otago farmer to ever win.

Young Farmer 2017 winner Nigel Woodhead says his time at Lincoln University opened doors for him which contributed to his success.

Mr Woodhead claimed the title in the Manawatu last Saturday, after three days of competition.

He was awarded a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree in 2009 by Lincoln University. The 28-year-old Milton sheep and beef farmer said his study has had a huge influence on his career since.

"I chose Lincoln because it has a great reputation and graduates I had spoken to told me of the huge amount of fun that was had while studying.

"Banks and fertiliser companies, and other businesses were screaming out for agriculture graduates, so I knew I wouldn't have any issues finding a good job at the end of my studies," Mr Woodhead said.

His degree opened the door for him to work for Midlands Seed in Ashburton, firstly as a research assistant and then as a field consultant.

"It gave me a great background understanding of all things agriculture and has allowed me to be in a great position to learn and understand new ideas."

He singled out the field trips he did while studying at Lincoln as particularly rewarding.