Leadership change at Young Farmers

Leadership change at Young Farmers

A farmer is at the helm of Taranaki’s rapidly-growing Young Farmers clubs for the first time in four years.

Kaponga contract milker Matthew Herbert was elected district chairperson of Young Farmers at an AGM on Saturday.

“There’s a great vibe within our clubs currently, and I’m keen to build on that,” said Mr Herbert.

The 26-year- old was handed the reins by former insurance advisor Warwick Fleming, who held the post for a year.

Mr Fleming’s predecessor, Paul Duynhoven, is an accountant.

“Matthew’s appointment means (Taranaki) Young Farmers will be led by a farmer,” said Mr Fleming.

“He’s the ideal person for the job; he has a grassroots approach, he’s professional and has great social media skills.”

Taranaki has five Young Farmers clubs: Urenui, Coastal, Inglewood, Central and Waimate West.

“The Stratford, Okato and Urenui-based clubs have all seen fantastic membership growth over the past year,” said Mr Fleming.

“That’s a tribute to the hard work of the teams running them.”

A fund-raiser by the Coastal club last May raised $4,500 for the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter.

More than 300 riders took part in a trail ride at Urenui last month, netting $8,500 for the club.

Central Taranaki Young Farmers’ popular comedy night, which raises several thousand dollars for charity, will be held again in May.

“Young Farmers members do amazing work across Taranaki; everything from pest control to mentoring TeenAg clubs,” said Mr Herbert.

“Joining Young Farmers is an awesome way to meet people, have fun and learn new skills.”

Kate Appert, who’s a 2IC on a 600-cow farm at Okato, was elected vice-chairperson.

“It was a great surprise,” said the 20-year- old.

“I’m really looking forward to getting more involved with Young Farmers at a district level.”

Hawera is hosting the Taranaki/Manuwatu regional final of the Young Farmer of the Year competition in April.

The district took out three of the four accolades at the Taranaki/Manawatu regional awards last March.

Central Taranaki Young Farmers was named best club; Jayden Harvey won best chairperson and Paul Duynhoven won an award for service.

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