Federated Farmers Podcast

What do farmers need from the next government? Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford joins us to walk through the organisation's newly released election platform, a five-point plan to double farm productivity, cut costs, improve environmental outcomes, and strengthen rural New Zealand. 
Wayne explains the thinking behind each proposal, the challenges farmers are facing on the ground, and why Feds believes these changes would benefit the wider economy as well as the rural sector.
Links
Media release: 'Federated Farmers launches election priorities'

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How do you separate solar facts from sales hype? Mike Casey from Rewiring Aotearoa joins us to discuss not only the significant opportunities solar energy presents for farmers, but also how to make sure you're getting the right system.
With more farmers exploring solar to reduce power costs, improve on-farm resilience and gain greater control over rising electricity prices, Mike explains why careful research is essential before signing a contract. He shares the warning signs of a poor deal, the sales pitches that should raise questions, and the common mistakes farmers make when choosing a solar system or finance package.
Mike also walks us through what a good solar proposal should include, how to compare offers, and the key questions to ask before making a decision. 
Useful links
Rewiring Aotearoa's Electric Farms Report
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Kerry Harmer and her husband Paul have recently won top environmental awards for their high-country stewardship work, while simultaneously fighting a $150,000 (so far) battle for consent to keep farming.
In this episode, the new Mid Canterbury Federated Farmers president talks about the brutal irony of being recognised for environmental leadership while being told they’re not doing enough. 
She shares the reality of the Harmers’ costly consent battle, the emotional toll of public scrutiny, and why she believes New Zealand’s consenting system is failing good farmers.
Kerry also reflects on her career in farming, life at Castle Ridge Station, high-country resilience, and the leadership she wants to bring to Federated Farmers.

Link:
Farmers Weekly article about the Harmers 

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Neat Meat founder Simon Eriksen reflects on 25 years of building one of New Zealand’s best-known premium meat businesses, from running deliveries out of a 1986 Subaru Legacy to supplying supermarkets, restaurants and My Food Bag.
Simon shares how Neat Meat challenged the traditional meat supply chain, why he launched the SpeckleBeef programme, and what he’s learned from decades of backing himself in business through highs and lows.
We also discuss the future of red meat, pressure on rural communities, the spread of carbon forestry, whether Kiwis are being priced out of quality beef and lamb, and what Simon believes needs to change to keep farming viable for the next generation.

Useful links
www.neatmeat.com
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Manawatū contract milker Riley O’Neill shares his top tips for people going contract milking for the first time in the coming season, or for existing contract milkers moving farms. 
Riley also discusses his own progression through the dairy sector, and his recent experience of moving to a new farm and new part of New Zealand. 
This is good, solid advice that's relevant to most dairy farmers, but particularly new contract milkers. 
Riley's social media channel:
www.instagram.com/theeudderfarmers 
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