FMG Young Farmer of the Year Grand Final

New Zealand farming’s iconic competition for young farmers has finally broken the gender barrier.

Waikato Bay of Plenty Young Farmer, Emma Poole, was the winner and crowned as the 2023 FMG Young Farmer of the Year. She made history as the contest’s first-ever female champion.

Emma secured the win following three days of gruelling challenges against six other Grand Finalists.

Congratulations also to Nick O’Connor who worked hard competing in a series of Young Farmer competitions which gave him the opportunity to representTasman, in the competition  held last month in Timaru.

More than 600 spectators poured into Winchester Showgrounds to watch as the ccontestants’ farming skills and general knowledge were put to the test with tasks including repairing farm machinery, creating a hydroponic system and an intense race-style challenge with multiple tasks that saw points awarded for both skill and speed.

Many contestants were visibly on edge as they worked with quad bikes, power tools and tractors to show off their practical skills. Points added up with every challenge, though the race continued to play out neck-and-neck right up until the final buzzer at the quiz on the Saturday evening.

“I'm totally overwhelmed, I really wasn't sure where I was going to sit,” said a delighted Emma.

“All the finalists have been so great throughout the competition and these last three days have been really tough. I wouldn't say I was feeling confident, but I knew I'd put in my best effort and that's all you can hope for at the end of the day.”