Tuesday 26th June 2018
Extra events planned after TeenAg skills day attracts huge turnout
An event testing the agri-business skills of high school students from the Manawatū and Taranaki has attracted a huge
turnout.
About 170 teenagers from New Plymouth, Whanganui, Feilding and Palmerston North took part in the TeenAg competition in
Feilding last Friday.
Students tackled modules from fencing to tractor and quad bike safety, finance, nutrient management and livestock
trading.
“It was hilarious watching them take bids and spin yarns during a mock livestock sale,” said Megan Bates from NZ Young
Farmers.
“Senior pupils got to conduct pre-start quad bike safety checks and then attach a trailer and navigate a small course.”
TeenAg is booming in the Taranaki/Manawatu region and unprecedented demand meant organisers had to turn away teams.
“It really shows how keen students are to be involved in the agri-business sector and to have a go at some of the more
practical tasks,” said Megan.
“As a result, two additional TeenAg skills days will be held next term in Whanganui and New Plymouth.”
Last week’s event gave four Feilding High School students who have made the TeenAg Grand Final in Invercargill next week
a chance to hone their skills.
David Reesby, Levi Stewart, Olivia Buick and Sophie Ridd will go up against 24 students from across New Zealand.
“A highlight of the day was learning more about fencing and how to correctly assemble water troughs,” said Olivia Buick.
“It was great to get in some practice and get feedback from experienced professionals.”
“We now know what we need to study and work on in preparation for the grand final,” she said.
Olivia credits the success of the event to its supportive atmosphere.
“All of the students were keen to give everything a go,” she said.
The event at Feilding High School would not have been possible without the generous support of skilled professionals who
ran the modules.
Photos from the day are available on this Google Drive:
ends