Alex Field stakes claim on coveted young farmer title

14–15 A Turakina sheep and beef farmer’s technological prowess has thrust him into the young farmer grand final.

Alex Field, 25, will fly the flag for Manawatu¯ and Taranaki at the national contest in Hawke’s Bay in July after beating six others last week at the regional final in Whanganui.

The young farmer contest has had a major overhaul since its 50th anniversary last year, with competitors now expected to showcase what it means to be a modern food producer.

Typically, the event had them tackling a series of modules and an agri-knowledge quiz, but they are now expected to be up-to-date with technological trends, so had to fly a drone and use GPS technology to erect a temporary electric fence and make butter.

Field said it was his first time using a drone, but it was a ‘‘refreshing’’ mix of modules. 16–17

This was Field’s second attempt at a regional final, and it had been a long-held dream of his to compete on the national stage.

‘‘I’m speechless ... [but] I’m excited about being a part of this year’s event.’’

Named the most tech-savvy contestant, Field took home $12,000 of prizes, including an XR150 Honda farm bike. He also won an award for outstanding leadership.

The Marton Young Farmers vice-chairman is a stock manager on a 1000-hectare property near Turakina, near Bulls. It’s owned by the Redmayne family.

Massey University agricultural science student Graham Johnson, 21, came second. He won awards for championing environmental best practice, showcasing innovation and the food prize. Fellow student and two-time world archery champ Benjamin Orchard, 20, was third.