Jun 2, 2023
Last month Ashburton played host to almost a couple-hundred deer farmers and industry representatives, the first time we've gathered in person as an industry since 2021. Here's how it went down.
Branch Chairs Meeting
The Executive Committee hosted the local Branch Chairs on Tuesday 9 May in Ashburton. The group had a short but robust and productive session, with a vision for the NZDFA the main topic of discussion.
All officially accepted the "NZDFA Focus" presented as a draft working document and were keen to progress. We hope to share this with the wider NZDFA soon but Karen talks about this in her update here >>
NZDFA 48th AGM
This year's AGM ran smoothly with chair Justin Stevens taking everyone through what the NZDFA has been up to nationally over the 2022/23 year. Treasurer Karen Middelberg presented the financial report and budget for 2023/24. It is worth noting that a change in reporting structure meant that the whole cost of a budget item was shown with the supplementary contribution from the DINZ producer manager budget. Previously the shared costs did not show the whole cost of an item, for example the Next Generation Programme.
Previous chair John Somerville seconded the chair's report this year and noted he was proud to be part of an organisation doing a great job for it's industry.
DINZ Board candidates, Paddy Boyd, Michael Salvesen, Corey Busch and Matt Carroll all had the opportunity to address the AGM and the selection process happening on the 6/7th of June (next week).
NZDFA Executive Committee at the AGM, John Somerville is reading his seconders reply
DINZ board candidate Patrick (Paddy) Boyd addressing the audience
You can view the 2022/23 Annual Report here >>
Deer Industry Conference
After last year's hiatus and initial plans going awry with Cyclone Gabrielle, the NZDFA and DINZ came together and put together a fantastic programme in Ashburton. A massive thanks to the local Canterbury West Coast NZDFA branch for all their hard work at short notice.
Both the conference, awards dinner and field day were at maximum capacity, and it was great to see a large number of farmers attend, especially the next generation.
MC Sarah Perriam-Lampp addressing the at-capacity crowd
The programme gave a high-level industry updates from the DINZ chair and CEO, a market update from DINZ executive before Q&A sessions with the marketing companies, and the DINZ Board. Concurrent workshop sessions gave attendees a chance to get more in depth and workshop ideas. They returned together for the keynote speakers, with Sir Ian Taylor closing the conference with an engaging and inspiring talk.
Returning for the awards dinner, attendees were treated to a fantastic meal, a collaboration between Hotel Ashburton and DINZ executive chef Graham Brown. You can read more about the awards in the next article >>
Lynda Gray announcing winners of the MSD/Allflex Deer Industry Photo Comp
Thank you
A massive thank you to all those that attended and contributed to this year's events. Without you, this would not be possible. We are looking forward to seeing you next time!
Also thank you to everyone who provided feedback for the conference. This will be helpful in developing future events for next year and beyond. Congratulations to Grant Hasse who won the Barkers gift pack for providing feedback.
