2026 Nuffield NZ Farming Scholarship. Apply by 17 August 2025. Read More...

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Kellogg Newsletter

Alumni in the Spotlight – Murray King, Penny Timmer-Arends, Alison Bentley, and Mihi Harris.

Alumni in the Spotlight - Feb 2025
Alumni in the Spotlight - Feb 2025

Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Murray King, 2003 Nuffield Scholar, ONZM

On Friday 7 February, Prime Minister the Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop, and the new South Island Minister James Meager, Murray King ONZM and others, opened the Waimea Community Dam.

As the Prime Minster noted, this project is an “incredible legacy”, albeit one “we wish we’d got onto sooner”. And as MP Boyack noted, the region now has water security.

In no small part, thanks to the tenacity and leadership of Murray King and his colleagues.

Take a read of an article on the Waimea Water website here. https://waimeawater.nz/2025/02/10/dam-opening-ceremony/.

Penny Timmer-Arends, 2023 Kellogg Scholar

Penny contributed to a DairyNZ ‘Inside Dairy’ article recently. The article, ‘Decoding Rumination Data’, looks at the data wearables such as collars and tags can provide to measure a cow’s wellbeing. This technology has made monitoring rumination easier.

Take a read of the article that suggests visual monitoring and physical examinations should also be used to monitor rumination rates. https://www.dairynz.co.nz/news/decoding-rumination-data/.

Alison Bentley, 2023 Kellogg Scholar

Alison spoke to Radio New Zealand a couple of weeks ago about growing beef cattle, hazelnuts and a wide range of fruit on her small farm near Rotorua.

Alison says small farms have a pivotal role to play in addressing domestic food security and the environment.

“Seven hectares can produce a magnificent amount of food.”

Take a listen to the RNZ interview here: https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/countrylife/audio/2018976890/could-small-scale-farms-be-the-best-way-to-feed-the-country.

Mihi Harris, 2021 Kellogg Scholar

B+LNZ continues to build its support for Whenua Māori, with the establishment of a Kāhui (Māori agribusiness advisory group). Mihi Harris is now part of this seven-strong group that will represent the needs of Whenua Māori entities.

Read more about the Kāhui and about Mihi here: https://beeflambnz.com/news/meet-blnzs-maori-agribusiness-advisory-group.

NZRLT governance opportunity.

The Board of Trustees for the New Zealand Rural Leadership Trust, responsible for governing the Nuffield Scholarships, Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme, the Value Chain Innovation Programme, Engage and the HortNZ Leadership Programme, wish to appoint an Associate Trustee.

This governance development opportunity is open to all Rural Leaders Alumni.

The Associate Trustee will have the opportunity to:

  1. Sit on the Board and gain greater understanding of governance processes under an experienced Board.
  2. Provide input into the development of some of the leading rural leadership programmes in New Zealand.
  3. Provide insights and perspective as an Alumni of the programme(s).

The Role
The position is included fully in all Board activities, events and meetings.

The Associate Trustee is expected to fully contribute to all Board discussions and actions as if they were a Board member of the organisation and attend events associated with the role. However, the role has no voting rights.

Eligibility
The Associate Trustee role is open to Alumni of the New Zealand Rural Leadership Trust who completed their programme between 2019 – 2024, inclusive.

Term
The term of appointment is for a twelve-month period (May 2025 – May 2026), which provides an opportunity to cover a full year of operations.

There are seven more Board meetings this year and several events. Most events are held in Christchurch or Wellington.

Flight and accommodation costs are covered, where applicable.

The Board meeting schedule for 2025 is:

  1. May TBC (Online)
  2. July 9 (Christchurch)
  3. August TBC (Online)
  4. September 10 (Wellington)
  5. November 3 (Wellington)
  6. December TBC (Online)
  7. January/Feb 2026 (Christchurch)
  8. April 2026 (Wellington)

Remuneration 
There is no remuneration or payment, however all direct costs (such as flights and accommodation where required) relating to meeting attendance, will be met.

Confidentiality and Conduct 
On appointment the Associate Trustee will be asked to sign a confidentially agreement.

Although the position is not an appointed Trustee of the New Zealand Rural Leadership Trust, the appointee is expected to adhere to the code of conduct of a Board member.

The Associate Trustee is expected to comply with any reasonable directions of the NZRLT concerning their role.

Application
Interested scholars should forward their application by 24 March 2025 to Lisarogers@ruralleaders.co.nz

Applications should be in writing, with a CV and a covering letter with the following;

  1. The reasons for applying for the role,
  2. What you expect to gain from the opportunity, including how the opportunity would contribute to your leadership goals,
  3. How you might contribute to the Board’s skills, experience and perspectives.

Appointment process 
An appointments sub-committee (a delegated committee of the Board) and the Chief Executive will consider all applications and provide a recommendation to the full Board who will approve the appointment.

The successful Associate Trustee will be notified by 10 April and will be invited to attend the May Board meeting online and subsequent meetings and events.

For any questions please contact:
Lisa Rogers, Chief Executive
Phone: 021 139 6881
Email: lisarogers@ruralleaders.co.nz

Alumni in the Spotlight – Robert Campbell, Bryan Guy, Grahame Webber, Carlos Bagrie and Karen Williams

Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Robert ‘Robin’ Campbell, 1980 Kellogg Scholar, ONZM

Robert Campbell of Invercargill becomes an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to farming and governance.

Over the last 40 years, Robin Campbell has freely given his farming and governance skills to the Southland community and to farming.

Other agencies Robin has served at include the New Zealand Sheep Council, Sheep Research Foundation, Sheep Improvement Ltd. And, at Ovita, he promoted funding for pioneering farm genetics research and genomic technologies.

Robin also served as Presbyterian Support Southland chairman for nine years and as the PSS national chairman where he earned the Extra Mile Award.

It doesn’t end there, Robin also adds Venture Southland, Presbyterian Retirement Villages Ltd, Waituna Partners Wetland Restoration Project, and the Community Trust of Southland, to his long list of service to community and industry. 

Bryan Guy, 1990 Kellogg Scholar, KSM

Bryan Guy has been awarded a King’s Service Medal for services to the community. Bryan is a retired dairy farmer who has volunteered in his community through church, farming and other organisations.

A leader in the Anglican Parish of Oroua, he holds several governance roles. He stepped in as Parish Bishop’s Warden in 2022, the primary lay parish leader for the seven churches of the Oroua Parish. He is also Chair of the Oroua Parish Trust and a Trustee of the St Johns Close Board Trust, administering church housing for the St Johns Close Trust Village.

He has been a Board member of Arohanui Hospice since 2021 and was elected as the Wellington Hawke’s Bay Board member of the Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) in 1986, with 20 years on the LIC National Board.

He became an Area Representative of the Manawatu-Rangitikei Rural Support Trust in 2015 and was involved with Farmstrong at its inception. He is Chairman of the Coach House Museum Board and was a Trustee of the Eastern and Central Community Trust (ECCT) from 2016 to 2020. Mr Guy previously served six years as Chair of the Taonui School Board of Trustees.

Grahame Webber, 1988 Kellogg Scholar, KSM

Grahame Webber, former Waipā District councillor, deputy mayor, and Cambridge Community Board member, has been awarded the King’s Service Medal for his outstanding contributions to local government and farming governance.

Grahame was a Waipā councillor for 21 years, to 2022, including deputy mayor from 2010 to 2019, and a member of the Cambridge Community Board from 1998 to 2022.

In an article from the Waipa District Council, he said it was an honour to be awarded the King’s Service Medal. 

In the article Grahame said, “It was overwhelming and emotional. I never dreamed someone would put my name forward. When I first received the email about the nomination, it took me a week to open it because I couldn’t quite believe it.”

While serving on the Cambridge Community Board, Grahame chaired the Sister City Committee, and started annual tours to rural communities, building connections with Le Quesnoy in France and Bihoro in Japan. These annual programmes have now been running for over 25 years.

In addition to his local government service, Grahame was a member of the Cambridge Federated Farmers from 1982 to 2020 and a director of the New Zealand Dairy Group from 1991 to 1994.

Carlos Bagrie, 2024 Nuffield Scholar, ONZM

Carlos Bagrie, 2024 Nuffield Scholar was recognised in the New Year’s honours list, along with Nadia Lim, for services to the food and rural industries.

Carlos and Nadia become Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM).

Carlos, co-founder with Nadia, of meal kit company My Food Bag, was recognised for regenerative, ethical farming practices at the couple’s Royalburn Station in Arrowtown, Central Otago.

Nadia commented to RNZ that “We are blown away to be receiving this recognition. And even more so because we are on the list together this year. We are stoked that farming and food production are receiving some of the spotlight.”

Carlos received a 2024 Nuffield Farming Scholarship and spent several months travelling, looking at innovative agricultural systems and exploring how New Zealand Food and Fibre exporters can position themselves for success in global markets.

Carlos, along with his fellow 2024 Scholars Rachel Baker, Jenna Smith and Peter Templeton, will submit their final Nuffield research reports in the coming months.

Carlos and Nadia spoke on The Country about the award, along with Dan Steele, 2015 Nuffield Scholar, who spoke about his work on Blue Duck Station and his father Richard’s recognition on the Honours List – awarded a King’s Service Medal for services to the rural community.

Dan provides an update on Blue Duck Station and how their conservation efforts are going.

You can listen to Rowena interview Carlos, Nadia and Dan on The Country here,

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1049-the-country-28628176/episode/the-country-full-show-monday-january-257128853/

Or read a Press article here,

https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360534278/food-and-rural-leaders-nadia-lim-and-carlos-bagrie-recognised

Karen Williams, 2023 Value Chain Innovation Programme

Karen Williams completed the Value Chain Innovation Programme in November 2023. Karen is National Client Propositions Manager with FMG and has recently been appointed to take up the CE role for IrrigationNZ.

In an article by Farmers Weekly, IrrigationNZ chair Keri Johnston said Williams brings a wealth of experience to the role, including a background in resource management, agriculture and farming, notable awards for her achievements and wide recognition for her leadership skills.

You can read more about Karen’s appointment in the article here,

https://www.farmersweekly.co.nz/people/karen-williams-to-head-irrigationnz/

Karen was named as one of NZ’s most influential and inspiring women in food and drink in 2023.

Alumni in the Spotlight – Anna Nelson, Rosie Dowling, Kate Kellick, Reuben Carter, Sarah How and Tracy Brown.

Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Kate Kellick, 2024 Kellogg Scholar.

Kate Kellick’s esheep, a shedding sheep breeding operation, hosted its first ram auction in Mangamahu near Wanganui recently.

The auction saw farmers from across the North Island, bid on the adaptive shedding sheep.

In a Farmers Weekly article by fellow Kellogg alum Cheyenne Wilson, Kate said: “It was quite surprising. There was a good turnout of people from all over the place. There were even a few bidding wars, with people vying for the same ram and pushing the prices right up.” 

During the auction the top ram fetched $8000, with an average price of $3500. 

“That’s apparently topped the average ram price in New Zealand,” Kellick said. 

“It definitely exceeded my expectations and makes all the hard work worthwhile.” 

Take a read of Cheyenne Wilson’s Farmers Weekly article here.

You can also read Kate’s Kellogg report here.

Reuben Carter, 2015 Kellogg Scholar and 2024 HortNZ Leadership Programme graduate.

A recent ODT Rural Life article charts Reuben’s career and life course so far – let’s just say he’s been a busy man. You can read more on Reuben’s journey here.

As a both a Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme and HortNZ Leadership Programme graduate Reuben is well equipped to deal with the challenges and opportunities the sector presents.

Reuben, is a crop manager with Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables in Canterbury. Delivered by Rural Leaders, Reuben and his fellow cohort completed the HortNZ Leadership Programme in two phases over nine weeks, between August and October this year.

Take a read about Reueben’s HortNZ Leadership Programme experience here.

Tracy Brown, 2020 Nuffield Scholar.

Following up on last month’s post on Tracy Brown’s new role as Chair at DairyNZ, we share a recent DairyNZ ‘Talking Dairy’ Podcast.

In the podcast Tracy shares her inspiring journey and her vision for the future of New Zealand’s world-leading dairy industry.

You can hear how Tracy plans to steer DairyNZ to deliver greater value for farmers here.

Rosie Dowling, 2014 Kellogg Scholar.

Rural Leaders’ programme alumni appear regularly on Country Calendar.

In one of the most recent episodes, Rosie Dowling’s determination in the face of adversity features as she farms sheep and beef, raises her young kids after her husband dies, and runs a business making wool-insulated dog kennels.

This is an inspiring watch. Head here to view.

There’s also this article on Rosie, in CountryWide by Joanna Grigg.

Anna Nelson, 2016 Kellogg Scholar.

Anna Nelson has been Chair of the co-operative side of Silver Fern Farms for six months and will take over from Rob Hewett as Chair of the Shanghai Maling joint venture side of the business in May.

Anna also runs a 1450ha King Country sheep and beef farm with husband Blair.

You can read more about Anna in Farmers Weekly’s Land Champions series below.

You can read the article here.

Sarah How (Tait), 2018 Kellogg Scholar.

The Zanda McDonald Award, a prestigious trans-Tasman honour that recognises and nurtures exceptional talent in agriculture, has announced the final three New Zealand finalists for 2025. The finalists include Kellogg alum Sarah How (Tait) and Lincoln University alum Maegen Blom.

Sarah is Co-founder and General Manager of Landify Ltd, in South Canterbury.

You can read more about the Xander McDonald Awards here.

You can read the article here.

Alumni in the Spotlight – Alison Bentley, Hamish Marr, Wayne Langford, Tracy Brown, Cam Henderson and Ben McLauchlan.

Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Alison Bentley, 2023 Kellogg Scholar.

Alison Bentley (Tikitere Farm) spoke yesterday at the event ‘Global and Local Approaches to Climate-Resilient Land Use: NZ’s Path Forward.’

Alison joined Angela Clifford (Eat New Zealand), in Session 2: Resilient Food Systems: Small-scale and Local? 

Alison and Angela’s presentation was titled, ‘Resilient Food Systems: small-scale and local?’

Keynote speakers at the event were: Ada Ignaciuk (OECD) and Katarzyna Zawalinska (IRWiR, Polish Academy of Sciences).

Head here to read a short article on Alison’s (and Angela’s) presentation.

While this event has been and gone the registration page has plenty of information about its purpose and the speakers. Head here to learn more.

Ben McLauchlan, 2020 Nuffield Scholar.

Marlborough wine producer and grape grower, Balvonie New Zealand, has released Marlborough’s first Prosecco from Glera grapes planted in the Rapaura sub-region.

The 2023 Balvonie Prosecco has been a three-year project for owners Ben and Helen McLauchlan, who first fell in love with Prosecco while living in the UK. The well-loved wine is made from a little-known grape called Glera, widely planted in Italy, but largely unknown in New Zealand.

Take a read of Balvonie’s Press Release here.

And more about the Balvonie Prosecco here (includes the all important tasting notes).

Tracy Brown, 2020 Nuffield Scholar. Cam Henderson, 2019 Nuffield and 2017 Kellogg Scholar.

Tracy Brown and Cameron Henderson have been confirmed as Chair and Deputy Chair of the DairyNZ Board, respectively.

Tracy Brown had previously been announced as Chair-elect in June 2024 when former Chair Jim van der Poel signalled his retirement from the role.

Take a read of DairyNZ’s press release here.

Hamish Marr, 2019 Nuffield Scholar.

In a recent REX podcast, Dominic George spoke to Hamish Marr about his role in connecting New Zealand agriculture with global markets.

Hamish explains how he navigates international conversations on sustainability, trade demands, and consumer preferences while advocating for New Zealand’s unique farming standards.

He highlights the importance of collaboration and adapting to global demands, offering a rare perspective on New Zealand’s role within the larger agricultural landscape.

You can listen to Hamish here.

Wayne Langford, 2014 Kellogg Scholar.

Federated Farmers national president Wayne Langford features in a recent Farmers Weekly article stating that both the general public and farmers are still unsure about what GE or GM means, and whether it is or isn’t already allowed in this country. 

In the article Wayne Langford says comments from farmers are generally positive and tend to be around meeting climate targets.

You can read the full article here.

 

Alumni in the Spotlight – Ben Todhunter, Jen Corkran, Paul Crick, Nathan Guy.

Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Ben Todhunter, 2006 Nuffield Scholar.

Ben Todhunter is an experienced Angus breeder, and operates a Merino stud on his farm Cleardale Station. He was recently appointed to the Board of Angus Australia.

In addition to the skillsets mentioned, Ben also breeds Cleardale SX Fine Wool sheep and is a successful competitor in Mustering Dog Trials. 

You can read more in this short article from Angus Australia on the appointment.

Jen Corkran, 2023 Kellogg Scholar.

Jen Corkran, is a Senior Analyst for meat protein with Rabobank. Jen features heavily across several pages in the Sheep Country issue. Jen says the long term view for sheep meat is positive.

She says farmers can be assured that global sheep meat prices are past the bottom of the cycle. “I’m reasonably confident we won’t see less than $6/KG for some time”, said Jen Corkran.

You can read the full article ‘Green shoots emerging after a tough season’ here. (Scroll to page 20).

Paul Crick, 2015 Kellogg Scholar.

As we mentioned, the “Sheep Country’ issue of CountryWide featured many Kellogg Alumni.

Paul Crick, Independent Director of the New Zealand Rural Leadership Trust, featured in an article ‘Testing genetics in commercial hill country conditions’. Paul farms ‘Glenside Station’ a 850ha, 7700 stock unit operation with his partner Dayanne Almeida.

The Wairarapa property was formerly the Taratahi Farm Training Institute’s. Paul and Dayanne took control of the property in 2019 and with it the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Hill Country Central Progeny Test Flock (CPT).

You can read more about the work Paul and Dayanne are doing here – work underpinned by the philosophy,  ‘if you look after the individual, the flock will take care of itself’.

(Scroll to page 62).

Nathan Guy, 1999 Kellogg Scholar.

Nathan is Chair of the New Zealand Meat Industry Association and says that in a time of challenging conditions it is critical that we do not scale back on marketing – specifically the telling of our farmers’ stories.

You can read more from Nathan Guy here.

(Scroll to page 19).

Alumni in the Spotlight – Kate Scott, Isabelle Coates, Matt Iremonger.

Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Isabelle Coates, 2022 Kellogg Scholar.

In what is potentially a first (at least for a while), a Kellogg Scholar writes about a Kellogg Scholar.

Cheyenne Wilson 2024 Kellogg Scholar wrote an article for Farmers Weekly a few weeks back covering Isabelle Coates in the publication’s Rural Living series which highlights the people of Aotearoa’s rural communities.

Isabelle talks to Cheyenne about her work, mentorship and more. Isabelle is Muka Tangata engagement and partnerships manager.

Take a read of the Farmers Weekly article.

Kate Scott, 2018 Nuffield Scholar.

Rural Leaders’ Chair and Nuffield Scholar Kate Scott has been appointed chief executive officer of Horticulture New Zealand.

Kate Scott has been working in agribusiness for 20 years with strong experience in policy and planning and stakeholder engagement. Kate is also executive director of environmental consultancy Landpro, and is deputy chair of Thriving Southland.

“I am confident Kate will navigate the sector’s complexities and be able to unpick and understand the key issues while remaining focused on delivering results that will make a difference for growers and the wider horticulture industry,” Said Barry O’Neil, chair of HortNZ.

Kate has also written a piece for ‘Eating the Elephant’ in Farmers Weekly, September 16. 

Take a read of this article on Kate’s appointment.

Matt Iremonger, 2023 Nuffield Scholar.

“The New Zealand pastoral farming industries have a great opportunity to shift the dysfunctional bobby calf output to functional beef-on-dairy production”, 2023 Nuffield scholar Matt Iremonger believes.

“By shifting from a production-driven to a consumer-demanded beef-on-dairy value chain there is a prospect to enhance value and provide an opportunity for beef on dairy and the non-replacement dairy calf.”

Read the full Farmers Weekly article here.

Alumni in the Spotlight – Julian Raine, Tracy Brown, Anna Gower-James and more.

It’s been another busy month or two for alumni in the news. Here are just a few of the media pieces covering the impact of Rural Leaders’ Programme Alumni in industries and communities across the sector. 

Julian Raine, 1997 Nuffield Scholar.

As you may well have heard, Julian Raine, 1997 Nuffield Scholar, won the Outstanding Contribution Award at the Federated Farmers’ Primary Industries Awards on July 2nd.

Julian is a former Chair of the NZ Rural Leadership Trust and has also chaired the Apple Futures Programme. He has been a trustee of the Massey Lincoln Agricultural Industry Trust, he has co-chaired the Nelson Tasman Climate Forum, and is a member of the Primary Sector Council.

Judges noted that he is, and continues to be, an innovator and leading entrepreneur in horticulture and dairy. His leadership and commitment to giving back, both nationally and in the Nelson community, including involvement in the Waimea Community Dam project, has spanned three decades.

This article gave a strong account of the win.

Take a read of the Farmers Weekly article.

Jason Te Brake, 2014 Kellogg Scholar.

Jason Te Brake’s appointment as Zespri’s new Chief Executive hit the headlines several weeks back. On his appointment Jason said, 

“My focus will be on leading the Zespri team to capture the significant demand opportunities in the market, on strengthening our supply chain and operational performance to maximise value in the market, and on ensuring we return as much of that value back to growers as possible.”

Take a read of this Waikato news article on Jason’s background and his plans for the Kiwifruit marketer.

Kate Scott, 2018 Nuffield Scholar.

In June’s ‘The Journal’ (From NZIPIM, Vol 28, No 2), Kate Scott, 2018 Nuffield Scholar shares her findings from her time in Brazil on the Nuffield Global Focus Programme (GFP).

Kate’s article explores the idea that Brazil might be a little more than its stereotype – 
a large-scale, beef-producing, Amazon deforesting nation in the South Americas.

The article goes into some ideas that potentially paint an alternative picture.

You can download and read the article here.

Image below: Julian Raine with his ‘Outstanding Contribution Award’ at July’s
Primary Industries Awards.

Tracy Brown, 2020 Nuffield Scholar.

In late June, it was announced Tracy Brown will take over as board chair of DairyNZ in October. Tracy replaces Jim van der Poel, 2002 Nuffield Scholar, who has been chair of DairyNZ since 2017.

DairyNZ has a governing board of eight members. Five directors are elected by farmers and three are independent and appointed by the board. Congratulations to Jim on his exceptional service and to Tracy on her election. This article from Rural News Group had it covered.

Anna Gower-James, 2023 Kellogg Scholar.

An article in the Spring edition of the New Zealand Dairy Exporter by Anna Gower-James explores the growth of Nigerian dairy consumption and looks at its potential from a New Zealand trade perspective.

The article is based on Anna’s Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme report and is available in the latest issue (Spring 2024) of New Zealand Dairy Exporter.

Anna’s full report is available here.

Dan Eb, David Eade, John Foley, 2021 Nuffield Scholars.

On a regular basis (generally once a week) one of four Nuffield Scholars, Dan Eb, David Eade, Phil Weir, or Ben Anderson, pen an article for Farmers Weekly’s ‘Eating the Elephant’.

Here is the now substantial archive which includes recent additions from Dan and David, as well as Phil Weir.

This month, guest writer John Foley added his learned touch to the group’s efforts. John’s article ‘The courage to be a pragmatist’, proposes that we just might have been better at getting things done in the past. John writes,

“Kennedy was a pragmatist. He fundamentally changed his politics to reflect the reality of American society and wasn’t afraid to lose political capital. For modern New Zealand, the pragmatism to build infrastructure and create enduring government policies is hard to find. As a result, things aren’t done.”

Take a read of John’s article here.

Another article from the archive well worth a read is Dan Eb’s June 19 piece on his Nuffield travel. The Global Focus Programme (GFP) is a key piece of the Nuffield Scholarship, placing small groups of about a dozen international scholars together on a tour of several continents and many countries.

“May-June 2023, my Nuffield Farming Scholarship sling-shotted me and 11 other scholars across Singapore, Japan, Israel, the Netherlands and the United States.”

For anyone considering a 2025 Nuffield Scholarship, this article gives you some real insight into what it means to develop a global view.

Applications for 2025 Nuffield Scholarships are open until 18 October. 

Cheyenne Wilson, 2024 Kellogg Scholar.

Cheyenne Wilson is currently on the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme and will graduate in November.

Cheyenne’s Kellogg research focuses on identifying the tools and mechanisms needed for rangatahi to thrive in the Food and Fibre sector.

Take a read of this Farmer’s Weekly article ‘Bridging tradition and innovation in NZ farming’ covers the journey so far of this busy and community-minded Kellogger.

Kylie Leonard, 2023 Nuffield Scholar.

The 2023 Nuffield Scholars, Kylie Leonard, Kerry Worsnop, Matt Iremonger and James Allen were each interviewed on the CountryWide or Dairy Exporter podcasts.

The most recent of these was Kylie Leonard’s coverage of her Nuffield report ‘Boots on the ground are part of the solution. Transitioning agriculture towards sustainability together.’ 

Interviewed by Sarah Perriam-Lampp, the podcast determines that farmers to need to be at the table when it comes to fostering sustainable practices in the agriculture sector.

Kylie says that the best uptake is when farmers have had the choice to change, and lead by example within their community.

Take a listen to Kylie’s podcast here.

You can also find the remaining 2023 Nuffield Scholar podcasts below.

James Allen, Matt Iremonger and Kerry Worsnop.

A big thank you to Sarah and her team for these fantastic podcasts.

Image below: Emma Crutchley at the launch of the KPMG Agri-business agenda. Fieldays.

Emma Crutchley, 2018 Kellogg Scholar.

Emma was asked to contribute to the launch of the KPMG New Zealand Agribusiness Agenda at Mystery Creek Field days.

Take a read of Emma’s LinkedIn post covering her participation on the panel, together with Jason Te Brake, Jason Doherty, Ian Proudfoot and others.

Alumni in the Spotlight – Michael Tayler, Tessa Appleby and more.

It has been a busy time for alumni. This selection of news items is a nowhere near  adequate summary – possibly a good problem to have. For now the Spotlight is on Michael Tayler, Tess Appleby, Lucie Douma, Matt Iremonger, James Allen, and Carlos Bagrie.

Michael Tayler, 2012 Nuffield Scholar.

Michael featured in Farmers Weekly recently in an article covering both he and his brother’s work in Japan. In the article Michael said there are a small number of Canterbury growers supplying carrots to Juice Products New Zealand for health-conscious consumers in Japan.

“It is an interesting story, and really satisfying to see New Zealand carrot juice on the supermarket shelves in Japan,” says Michael Tayler.

Take a read of the Farmers Weekly article.


Lucie Douma, 2022 Nuffield Scholar.

Lucie Douma will be speaking at E Tipu 2024. Another great reason to attend, either in-person or online. Lucie’s report ‘Data sharing to achieve data interoperability’ discusses the need to find a better way of collecting, managing, and using information on our farms as part of the decision-making process – and for this we need data interoperability and data sharing of systems.

 

Lucie is Head of Client Strategy and Advice at FMG Lucie has been instrumental in shaping strategies that resonate with the needs of the modern farmer, focusing on innovation and resilience in the face of changing agricultural landscapes.

See Lucie’s full bio for E Tipu here.

Get your tickets for E Tipu 2024 here.

 

Matt Iremonger, 2023 Nuffield Scholar.

Matt was interviewed a couple of weeks ago on the CountryWide Podcast. Where his Nuffield report ‘What’s the beef? Opportunities for beef on dairy in New Zealand’, was discussed, specifically the issue of non-replacements (1.8 million calves are slaughtered annually at 4-7 days).

Listen to the podcast here.

Matt’s Nuffield report looks at the opportunity for beef on dairy to shift the value chain from dysfunctional to functional.

In a supporting article by Sarah Perriam-Lampp, he also featured in CountryWide, Beef Country Autumn, pages 15-18. Check the article, ‘World’s best grass-fed steak’. To partially quote the article flavour text, ‘Handpicked genetics, farm systems and top-notch grading to be crowned the best…’

You can read the article here.

James Parsons also features in this issue on the use of Halter in hill country. Nick Jolly, 2023 Kellogg Scholar lends his expertise with an article on page 13. Upcoming 2024 Kellogg Programme Two Scholar and John Daniell Memorial Trust Scholarship winner, Rachel Joblin has written an article on integrated farm planning (pages 20 and 21).


James Allen, 2023 Nuffield Scholar.

James was also interviewed on the CountryWide Podcast where he discussed his report, ‘Redefining excellence in agribusiness advisory. The role of the rural advisor in the modern world’.

You can listen to this podcast here.

James’ report explores the challenges faced by the rural advisor in a farming world striving to feed an ever-increasing population whilst also reducing its environmental footprint. This report gives guidance as to how the rural advisor might continue to add value to farmers in this fast-changing context.

 

Tessa Appleby, 2023 Kellogg Scholar.

Tessa features in several recent articles, including Farmers Weekly. This piece covers the impact of Cyclone Gabrielle and the loss of her home.

The article also covers Tessa’s Kellogg research which aimed to review and analyse the current understanding and perception of Bovine TB among farmers and industry professionals.

The research report explored aspects of BovineTB management strategy and a human-centred approach to its eradication. 

One significant aspect of the findings was the importance of storytelling in creating empathy and understanding. 

“Sharing people-centered stories and case studies can complement technical information and foster a deeper understanding of disease management strategies,” Tessa said. 

You can read Tessa’s Kellogg report ‘Eradicating complacency’ here.

 

Carlos Bagrie, 2024 Nuffield Scholar.

Most readers will know about Royalburn’s new beer Swifty. Carlos Bagrie worked closely with Garage Project to produce a refreshing and highly accessible beer, made from the Station’s own barley. You can read the article here (scroll to page 34). 

Nuffield featured on an episode of Nadia’s Farm recently Season 2, Episode 6. If you are all signed up for TV3 OnDemand, check it out. (Image is on the steps of the Beehive just prior to the Nuffield Awards, November 2023).

Alumni in the Spotlight – Jenna Smith and Rachel Baker in Brazil.

2024 Nuffield Scholars from across the globe headed to Campo Grande in Brazil for the Contemporary Scholars Conference (CSC). Our own Scholars: Rachel Baker, Jenna Smith, Carlos Bagrie and Peter Templeton joined Rural Leaders CEO, Lisa Rogers and Chair, Kate Scott at the Conference. For many, the Conference kicks off their research travels officially.

To give some idea of the sights seen and insights gained on the nearly month-long time abroad on the CSC and post conference tours, we share a few of Jenna and Rachel’s LinkedIn posts and images. (There’s a couple there from Lisa Rogers as well).

Rachel Baker,
Post 1

Ready…set…fly! I’m heading off with my fellow Nuffield NZ 2024 scholars for the CSC Scholars Conference in Campo Grande, Brazil. Looking forward to connections, learning and new experiences while flying the flag for the NZ food sector.

Jenna Smith,
Post 1

“Everyone wants to go to heaven – but nobody wants to die…”

And herein lies the complexity when having global discussions about decarbonisation – let alone our domestic perspective on our responsibilities.

I’ve had a fascinating start to the Nuffield Contemporary Scholars Conference here in Brazil. Really thought provoking initiatives and conversations about some wicked problems.

Although not perfect – and none of us are – I’ve really enjoyed hearing about Mato Grosso do Suls journey to sustainability, and their ambition to ‘Make it Happen’.

Rachel,
Post 2

My impression of my time in Brazil is of a vast country, of contrasts, and big aspirations for the world stage. A proud patriotic people, of mixed origin and traditions, welcoming and open with visitors.

Policy makers want to bring biodiversity to the forefront of global climate change conversation, believing decarbonisation is a Northern Hemisphere agenda. By law, a % of farmed land has to be retired and planted, from 20% in Mato Grossa du Sol to 80% in the Amazon. Satellite imagery is used for compliance.

Food production is simply mind boggling in scale – they are the world’s 4th largest producer of food and the 3rd largest exporter of food (forecast to be 2nd by FAO). Orange juice, coffee, sugar cane, soya, beef…so much food. Private capital is funding investment which is accelerating growth and opportunity.

Brazil is a country on a growth trajectory well worth following – their scale will create both influence and impact.

Jenna,
Post 2

Visiting Aldeia Brejão and the Terēna people on the Nioaque Indigenous Land, in Mato Grosso do Sul was something I’ll play back over and over again. Their sheer determination to be a part of the solution, even with little influence, was awe-inspiring.

This Indigenous community spoke at length about their part and the importance in bringing together ecosystem diversity.

They also know all too well the impact climate change is having on their way of life. The volatile weather patterns have meant it is increasingly harder for them to live from the land according to traditional methods.

Added to this they are noticing the degradation of their natural resources coming through their settlement.

They’re having the conversations that many of us put in the too hard basket, because they don’t have the luxury of sitting by and waiting for solutions to come to them.

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Rachel,
Post 3

An insight into coffee production from my Nuffield travels in Brazil.

🌳Brazil is one of the world’s largest arabica coffee producers, of which ~50% is exported. Check where your coffee beans are sourced, it’s very likely to be from Brazil!

🤝We visited Cocapec, a coffee cooperative in Franca in Sao Paulo state, which receives and processes 1.5m tonnes of green coffee beans from 3,000 members for sale on a trading platform.

🌱Supply is from 100,000 ha of plantation, from 5-10 ha properties to thousands of hectares.

🚚Trucks are emptied by hydraulics, which lift the entire truck!

👩‍🌾The grower keeps ownership and control of their beans through to the point of sale, instructing the Cooperative what and when to sell and an expected price.

☕️Coffee beans are grower currency, they can pay for goods they purchase from Cocapec with coffee.

❄️The sector was impacted heavily by a huge unforeseen frost event in 2021, followed by a prolonged dry period, which killed or damaged trees and reduced yield by 50%. Yields are nearly back to 2020 levels.

🌱Harvest is now predominantly mechanized which reduces costs by 25-30%.

👨‍🌾Farmers are supported by Cocapec agronomists, scientists, laboratory testing, farm supplies as well as government scientists and training opportunities. The Co-op also provides favourable finance options to members for machinery purchases.

💰Coffee has a competitive grower cooperative environment and Cocapec is actively recruiting new members.

Rachel,
Post 4

Sugarcane insights from my recent Nuffield travels in Brazil.

Brazil is the world’s largest producer of sugarcane and the highest ethanol producer from sugarcane (the US is the largest ethanol producer, mainly from corn).

🍬The largest global consumers of sugar are India and China.

⚡️Brazilian ethanol producers want to reshape the future of global energy, providing “profitable and sustainable decarbonisation energy solutions”

🌱 Sugarcane is grown on a 7-8 year cycle, yields ~100 tonnes/ha at maturity (5-6m tall), is deep-rooted so doesn’t usually require irrigation.

☀️ Sugarcane is ~12% sugar, 70% water and 18% bagasse (fibrous pulp), straw and minerals.

⚡️Products of sugarcane processing are sugar, ethanol and clean energy (bioelectricity). The process can operate as a circular economy with 99% of by-products reused e.g. 2nd generation ethanol, fertiliser, compost.

🌽Compared to corn, sugarcane produces twice the yield of ethanol for the same area.

🚜 Sugarcane planting and harvesting has progressed to ultra-precision planting with full automation no tillage (reduced GHG emissions by 43%), dual mechanised harvesting and integrated pest management (85% biological). Fuel for the 500-600hp machinery is still diesel but hydrogen and ethanol injection is being trialled.

🚘 Cars and light vehicles in Brazil are fuel-flexible and can run on ethanol (NZ$1.05/L) or an ethanol/gasoline (NZ$1.64/L) blend. I didn’t see any electric or hybrid vehicles.

🏭 We visited one of Sao Martinho’s four sugarcane mills. SM is a large 49% publicly listed company. At this mill they process 10 million tonnes of sugarcane (from 130,000 ha) from April to November with a truck arriving every 1.8 minutes for 220 days! 50% of the bioelectricity produced is sold to the national grid and all fleet vehicles run on 100% ethanol.

❓️Could Australia be the ethanol energy supplier to the Pacific?