Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is proud to announce the six recipients of the 2025 Rural Advancement Scholarship, an initiative designed to strengthen leadership within the sheep and beef sector.
Each recipient will receive a $4,000 contribution towards a place on any Rural Leaders programme starting in 2026, supporting them to make a lasting impact on New Zealand’s rural communities and farms.
Dan Brier, B+LNZ’s GM Farming Excellence says, “Investing in people is investing in the future of our sector. These scholarships empower farmers to step into leadership roles, tackle critical challenges, and drive positive change for New Zealand’s sheep and beef industry.”
Meet the 2025 scholarship recipients
Julia Hardwick Smith – Rawhitiroa
Julia is a highly motivated farmer preparing to take over her family’s sheep and beef operation. She plans to join the Kellogg Programme to research alternative ways to rear triplet lambs to improve survivability and reduce wastage, while exploring barriers to wider farmer adoption.
Dianne Roadley – Wairoa
An established community leader and Regional Councillor, Dianne’s leadership was forged through years of community work and responding to adverse weather events. Her Kellogg project will investigate how the industry can better communicate with farmers and bridge the urban-rural divide.
Jeremy Leigh – Glen Murray
Jeremy brings a unique dual perspective as both a veterinarian and farmer. His Kellogg project will focus on dairy-beef integration and parasite management, aiming to optimise profit through smarter farming systems.
Nic Ruddenklau – Oamaru
Nic is passionate about sustainability and the wool sector. Her Kellogg project will explore ways to improve traceability and ensure fairer returns for fine wool growers, strengthening farmer-stakeholder relationships.
Tessa Miller – Riversdale, Gore
Tessa aims to connect on-farm environmental improvements with global market value. Her Kellogg project will examine how value is created and communicated along the supply chain, translating market signals into practical insights for farmers.
Sam Mann – Dannevirke
Sam is committed to agricultural education and youth mentorship. His project will focus on expanding the Pukemiro Station cadetship programme and exploring charitable growth opportunities.
ENDS
For more information, please contact [email protected].