PONSPONED DUE TO WEATHER. Join us at the upcoming Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Central South Island Showcase. We will provide an updated day/time asap.
The showcase will bring together real-life experiences and expert insights from the sheep and beef industry. The dinner features well-known inspirational speaker Dave “The Brown Buttabean” Letele.
The event, divided into a daytime session and dinner, offers something for all attendees, whether you are early in your careers, involved in succession planning, or simply looking to expand your farming knowledge.
Minna Wilson, B+LNZ CSI Extension Manager, highlights the showcase as a fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded farmers in the Central South Island.
"This event allows attendees to hear from a range of local farmers about their diverse farming pathways and to learn from their challenges and successes in farm succession," she says.
"After the day session, we are thrilled to have Dave Letele as our guest speaker at the dinner. Dave has an incredible story, from growing up with a father in the Mongrel Mob to starting the Butterbean Movement, inspiring countless individuals along the way."
"Alongside our B+LNZ Farmer Council, we crafted the CSI Showcase to explore various farming pathways with the intention of inspiring those in our industry. We're excited to bring together expertise and practical insights from a range of rural professionals and farmers.”
Engaging workshops and farmer panel
The day session kicks off with an innovative speed dating-style workshop, where participants will engage with panellists who bring firsthand experiences in EP diversification, dairy diversification, family succession, leasing arrangements, and career management.
Following similar themes, the lineup of speakers includes specialists in career coaching, financial and succession planning, real estate, and strategic problem-solving.
Keynote Speaker: Dave "The Brown Buttabean" Letele
The highlight of the regional showcase dinner will be keynote speaker Dave Letele, known as “The Brown Buttabean”.
Dave’s remarkable journey is a powerful testament to resilience and transformation. Growing up amidst prisons and criminal activity, with his father as the president of the Mongrel Mob, Dave's early life was marked by significant challenges. He experienced both the highs of early sporting success and the lows of his supermarket business failure in Australia, which left him returning to New Zealand with nothing but the clothes on his back and weighing over 200kgs.
Turning to prize fighting to regain his health and financial stability, Dave’s inspiring story unfolded as he documented his transformation on social media. His dedication led to a dramatic weight loss of over 100 kg and the birth of the Buttabean Motivation (BBM) Movement. Dave’s keynote address will share his incredible journey of overcoming adversity, embracing change, and motivating others to achieve their best.
Secure your spot
There are limited tickets, so don’t miss out. Learn more about the showcase and purchase your tickets on B+LNZ’s website here.