Farmers, rural professionals and community members are warmly invited to attend the Western North Island Farmer Council Annual Meeting on 7 October in Hawera.
This is a great opportunity to hear about council activities, discuss key issues facing the farming sector, and help shape the direction of farmer representation across the region.
The Annual meeting is open to the public, and everyone with an interest in the future of farming in the Western North Island is encouraged to attend.
If you are passionate about advocating for farmers, contributing to industry discussions, and helping drive positive outcomes for your local farming community, we encourage you to put your name forward or nominate a fellow farmer.
Join us in Hawera on 7 October and be part of the conversation that helps strengthen the future of farming in our region.
If you wish to nominate yourself to stand on the WNI Farmer Council and farm in Taranaki, Whanganui, Manawatu areas then please email your name and bio to: [email protected] before the 30th September.
Speaker
Jorge Copleston - Under the stewardship of Jorge Coplestone and Rex Petersen since 2024, Otawin operates over two separate leased properties - the 320ha (293ha effective) Ararata block in south Taranaki and Pukengahu - a 158ha (151ha effective) block in eastern Taranaki. Pukengahu holds deep sentimental value, with Jorge being the fifth generation of the family to farm it – reinforcing a strong generational connection to the land. Each property plays a key role in the breeding and finishing system and – through careful planning - Jorge and Rex have created a symbiotic relationship between the two. The steep terrain of Ararata is the breeding engine, running hardy Romdale ewes, hoggets and Angus breeding cows. Meanwhile, the flatter Pukengahu has been optimised for finishing terminal lambs and fattening cattle. This division ensures stock classes are matched perfectly to land capabilities. Operational changes have already yielded tangible results. For example, successfully calving their own heifers this year has resulted in an annual increase of 30 calves. In addition, chicory crops have been planted for faster lamb fattening, and mating dates have been changed so they’re better suited to the Taranaki seasons. Jorge and Rex have a strong interest in genetics and breeding which includes selecting sires with lower emissions.
Registration
Registration is essential.