Friday, 8 June 2012

Young Hawke’s Bay grower cream of the crop

Benjamin James has been named the Hawke’s Bay Young Fruit Grower 2012 beating off tough competition from nine other finalists from Hastings and Napier.

The competition, held at the A&P Show Grounds in Hastings was the culmination of a day-long event involving a series of mental and physical challenges which are essential to success in the horticulture industry.

Benjamin (27), works as an Assistant Crop Manager with Mr Apple NZ Ltd and wins a $1,000 cash prize and a trip to Nelson to visit a number of South Island apple growers and packing operators.

Benjamin said the competition was challenging but very rewarding.

“This was a real test for me but I’m thrilled to have taken the title and it feels really rewarding to be able to represent Hawke’s Bay at the final.”

“It was great to be able to show to my family, friends and workmates how much I’ve learnt during my time as a grower. I think I’ve really proved myself and I’m looking forward to competing at the national competition later this year.”

Second place went to Jamie Kershaw (27), Crop Manager with Mr Apple Ltd and Shane Flynn (23), Crop Manager with Crasborns, Hastings was placed third. Vee Puna (27) Supervisor with Orchard Investments, Napier won the award for Best Speech.

This year’s Hawke’s Bay competition received a record number of entries including three women, the largest number in the competition’s history.

Michelle de Jong, Young Grower Manager, says she was encouraged to receive the high number of young grower applications for this year’s competition. “This is the biggest competition yet; these 10 young and talented growers are a testament to the Hawke’s Bay horticulture industry.”

Benjamin will also go on to compete for the Young Grower of the Year title at the national competition, held in conjunction with the Horticulture New Zealand conference in July.

ENDS

© Scoop Media