23 June 2000 Organics named as Farmer of Year category

Organic Farming is the category for this year's Lincoln University Foundation/Rabobank Farmer of the Year Competition. The competition is open to all South Island farmers.

The prestigious competition, now entering its 18th year, carries with it awards of overseas travel scholarships. Last year's category was Excellence in Innovation and the winners were beef, sheep and wine entrepreneurs Brent and Shirley Rawstron of 'Rossendale' Halswell, Christchurch.

"What we are seeking this year," says co-ordinating judge Neil Gow of Lincoln University, "is to identify farmers who have recognised the opportunities created by the emerging consumer demand for organically produced food, and have developed profitable, alternative and sustainable farming systems to satisfy this consumer preference."

For the purposes of the award organic farming is defined as any farming system that has been formally certified by any recognised body such as Bio-Gro, Demeter, Codex, or Certenz. Although it is expected that contestants should have reached full certification status, those in transition may be considered at the discretion of the judges.

The annual award, sponsored by Rabobank, exists to acknowledge outstanding and innovative farm management practitioners and their contribution to leadership in land-based production. It is a requirement of the winners that they host an open day on their property at an appropriate time after the judging.

The top prize is an overseas travel scholarship valued at $7500, with runner-up awards of $3000 and $2000.

For further information on the Lincoln University/Rabobank Farmer of the Year Competition apply to any branch of Rabobank or contact Errol Costello at PO Box 84, Lincoln University, Canterbury, or phone (03) 3253832 or fax (03) 3253840 and you will receive a comprehensive prospectus and entry form.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand