Congratulations Programme One 2025. 18-inperson days in Lincoln and in Wellington, one research report, one presentation of said research report, tens of insights sessions from industry leaders, workshops, reflections, at least 22 new friendships, and much more.
This graduation marked the completion of the research component of Kellogg. Scholars presented their work to the cohort throughout their phase three. Their reports will be made available on the Rural Leaders’ site in the next two weeks.
The graduation ceremony was held in Lincoln University’s Memorial Hall. Thank you to Lincoln University (NZ) for the use of this incredible space.
Lisa Rogers, Rural Leaders CEO got the graduation ceremony started, introducing new Rural Leaders Associate Trustee, Katie Rodwell (2019 Scholar).
Katie spoke to the graduates about the transformation the programme had created for her. Katie discussed the critical thinking skills, networks and connection that are developed on Kellogg, and encouraged the group to stay connected and to lean into any opportunities for growth.
This cohort’s reports will be shared with investing partners for a first preview, then more widely soon after.
As a heads-up, scholars and their report topics (under broad theme headings) are as follows:
Environmental management in agriculture.
Adam Williamson
Water quality in the Amuri basin – where are we at?
Jodie Goudswaard
Balancing profit and environment: Insights from New Zealand’s leading dairy farms.
Cameron Walker
Enhancing on-farm carbon stocks.
Jess Ross
Softer Crop Protection, The Way of The Future?
The business of agriculture and horticulture.
Michele Cranefield
From Seed to Success – Transitioning Farm Ownership in New Zealand – The Ownership Equation: Exiting with Value, Entering with Vision.
Emma Harvey
Opportunities within New Zealand agri-tourism.
Kurt Harmer
Dairy diversification into raw and pasteurised milk sales.
Pare Taikato
The opportunity cost to New Zealand of under-developed whenua Māori.
Malinda Wynyard
Building diversity in New Zealand dairy export markets for independent manufacturers.
Grant Kay
Dairy farmers love sharing data…but there is a ‘but’.
Sam Connor
Partnerships within the food and fibre sector: do they return value to the farm gate?
Kaitlin Bates
Smart Nutrition, Stronger Herds: A Holistic Approach to NZ Dairy Excellence.
Matt Ward
How can we maximise profitability in our decreasing ewe flock?
Daniel Judd
The soils gap: Interactions between culture, research and fertiliser.
Developing our people and communities.
Emma Weston
Career satisfaction and job retention for front line vets in government roles.
Katrina Roberts
Dairy farmer-female veterinary advisor relationships in New Zealand: Identifying the key attributes of a flourishing partnership.
Morgan Jones
How do we develop financial literacy in rural New Zealand?
Michele Findaly
What factors enable trusted, high value relationships between rural managers and clients in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector?
Jack Dwyer
Leadership qualities needed for first time managers.
Richie Cameron
How can the sheep and beef industry retain farm managers without ownership opportunities?
Anthea Yule
Does the decline in school bus services highlight more significant issues affecting rural primary education?
Phil Holland
Guardians or executioners: Navigating the ethics of deer control.
