Honda prizes for top Young Farmer

Whole team benefits from Emma’s win

FMG Young Farmer of the Year Emma Poole, of Pirongia, says the life of a dairy farmer continues pretty much as usual even after such a big win, although some of the equipment is better.

“The animals have no idea I’m the Young Farmer of the Year,” she says.

“They need looking after exactly the same as before.”

As part of the grand prize Poole, won a Honda TRX 520 FA6 quad bike to go with her Honda EU22 Generator she won at the regional final.

She says the generator is amazingly useful.

Her husband, who won the regional final last year and was runnerup in the Grand Final, also won a generator so they have become used to the convenience of having power in remote parts of the farm and at the run-off - as well as when the power is out.

She says the 2kW generators are small and relatively light, so they are carted all over the place and used for everything from dehorners to hair straighteners.

Poole says the Honda quad bike is a mainstay on the farm and the new model is great.

She says they aren’t just prizes for her either.

“We are part of a team of 10 looking after two farms and a runoff, so everyone benefits from new gear.

“I see the staff looking after the equipment and making sure it is clean before it goes away.”

Poole adds that farmers notice companies like Honda, which participate in events such as Young Farmer of the Year.

“When I’m looking for product to buy I like to see who is supporting the community.”

The couple are also looking to give back themselves.

Poole says being part of Young Farmers helps in their farming and business lives and is worth the effort.

She first made a Grand Final in 2019, when she placed third, and came back this year to give it another go.

“Now we are helping the next generation with a fantastic opportunity for the Waikato in 2024 when Claudelands is the venue for the Grand Final in July,” says Poole.

“Chris and I are helping with the practical aspects of the event.

“The Grand Final only comes to the Waikato every seven years so it is great to be able to be involved.”

Photo / Dean Taylor FMG Young Farmer of the Year 2023 Emma Poole, of Pirongia, with The Honda Shop Te Awamutu’s branch manager Shane Blackwell and two of her prizes - a Honda TRX 520 FA6 quad bike and Honda EU22 Generator.

2022 Waikato/Bay of Plenty FMG Young Farmer of the Year Chris Poole was presented a generator by The Honda Shop Te Awamutu’s branch manager Shane Blackwell.

Emma Poole hoists the Young Farmer of the Year trophy. She also won $90,000 in prizes after beating six other finalists in a range of on-farm challenges.