Media Release
Farm Environment Trust Appoints New Chairman
Waikato dairy farmer Jim Cotman has been elected chairman of the New Zealand Farm Environment Award Trust.
The Trust oversees the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, which now operate in eight regions throughout New Zealand.
Mr Cotman, who farms at Waerenga in the North Waikato, takes over from Peter Nation who stood down due to work and
family commitments. Mr Nation, national sales manager for the Gallagher Group, remains on the board and will serve as
the Trust’s treasurer.
At the Trust’s AGM in Rotorua in October, Mr Cotman said his appointment was a huge privilege and he paid tribute to the
former chairman.
“Peter’s vast experience in agribusiness has brought a new level of professionalism to the board’s activities and he has
worked tirelessly on behalf of the Trust to promote sustainable farming practises in New Zealand. The Trust is very
appreciative of his efforts and my job will be to continue the good work he has done.”
Otago’s Peter Cummings is the Trust’s vice chairman and other trustees are Ian Pirani, Bruce Fraser and Peter Mourits,
Bay of Plenty, Chris Smith, Southland, Dougal McIntosh, Wanganui, Max Enersen, Canterbury and Martin Wallace, Waikato.
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