Around 120 farmers and rural professionals gathered in Timaru recently for Beef + Lamb New Zealand's Central South Island Showcase: Good Buggers, Great Stories.
The evening brought together good food, plenty of laughs and honest conversations about farming, business and what it takes to build a successful future.
B+LNZ’s Central South Island Farmer Director Nicky Hyslop opened the event with an update on B+LNZ's long-term strategy and the organisation's focus on lifting productivity and profitability for sheep and beef farmers.
Guests then heard from South Otago farming couple Nigel and Leanne Woodhead, who shared the story behind their farming operation and wider business interests, along with some of the key decisions that have helped shape their success.
While every farming business is different, three themes stood out throughout their discussion.
Build your trusted team early
For Nigel, one of the biggest contributors to success has been surrounding himself with the right people.
As the family transitioned through succession, they were deliberate about building a trusted team of advisers and supporters who understood not only the business, but also their goals and values.
Rather than simply seeking technical expertise, Nigel encourages farmers to work with people who understand the ‘why’ behind their decisions.
For the Woodheads, that meant building a team of people who recognised the importance of family, understood the realities of raising young children, and could help them make decisions that supported both business and lifestyle goals.
Having the right people in your corner creates confidence and accountability, while also providing the support needed to navigate challenges and opportunities.
Curiosity and strategy go hand in hand
Another key message was the importance of staying curious.
Nigel spoke about continually asking questions, challenging assumptions and seeking out new ideas.
However, he noted that curiosity alone is not enough.
"Curiosity and strategy need to go hand in hand," he explained.
Being open to new opportunities is important, but having a clear vision for where the business is heading helps ensure decisions align with long-term goals.
Nigel reflected on his Agricultural and Marketing Research and Development Trust (AGMARDT) Market Innovation research project as an example of exploring new opportunities while remaining focused on a clear strategic direction.
He encourages farmers to keep learning, keep asking questions and surrounding yourself with people who are willing to challenge your thinking.
Think long term about succession
The final theme centred on succession planning and the deliberate decisions made by Nigel's parents to position the business for future generations.
Rather than focusing solely on purchasing more farmland, they invested strategically in diversified income streams that helped strengthen the overall business.
Those early decisions created flexibility and helped provide a pathway for the next generation.
Nigel encouraged farmers to think strategically about what they are trying to achieve and how today's decisions will support future family and business aspirations.
Plenty of laughs along the way
While Sam the Trapman couldn’t make the event due to illness, Te Radar kept the audience thoroughly entertained and laughing.
Drawing on stories about food, cookbooks and the changing way New Zealanders think about what ends up on their plate, he brought his trademark wit and storytelling skills to the evening.
Thank you
B+LNZ would like to specially thank Principal Sponsors Craigs Investment Partners, along with other event sponsors:
- South Canterbury Rural Support Trust
- H & T Agronomics
- Halter
- Ravensdown
- Thomson Plantings