1 September 1999
PR93/99
STOREY DUMPING A SIGNAL TO REST OF INDUSTRY
DFNZ National Chairman Charlie Pedersen today paid tribute to NZDB Chairman John Storey.
Mr Storey was defeated in a NZ Dairy Group ward election yesterday by high profile and popular farmer Jim van der Poel.
"While obviously the wish of the Te Awamutu ward group of farmers, nevertheless it signalled the loss of a huge amount
of skill and experience in the industry in the form of John Storey."
"I believe farmers may have sent the dairy industry leaders a brutal wake up call," Mr Pedersen said.
"This result, combined with the Commerce Commission interim decision, indicates that the dairy industry leadership needs
to do a hell of a lot better job of listening to farmers."
"Dairy Farmers of New Zealand congratulates Jim van der Poel, who is one of New Zealand's best and most successful
farmers. He has much to contribute to the industry."
"More than ever, the New Zealand dairy industry needs strong leaders who are prepared to listen to the farmers they
serve," concluded Mr Pedersen.
ENDS