Around 230 farmers and rural professionals gathered at B+LNZ's Big Dine In in New Plymouth to hear the latest sector updates, discuss opportunities for on-farm improvement and connect with others passionate about the future of sheep and beef farming.
The evening featured radio personality and podcaster Dom Harvey, former All Black Dane Coles, rural entrepreneur David Buick and an update from B+LNZ Chief Executive Alan Thomson.
Turning challenges into opportunities
Rural entrepreneur David Buick shared lessons from his own journey, encouraging farmers to maintain a positive outlook during challenging times and focus on taking one step at a time.
He spoke about the importance of celebrating progress, tackling the next opportunity once one challenge has been overcome, and appreciating what you already have.
A key message was the value of stepping back from the day-to-day pressures of work to make time for family and enjoy the things that matter most.
Farmers confident in opportunities ahead
A strong message shared during the evening was the growing sense of optimism across the sector.
Recent farmer confidence survey results show confidence has rebounded strongly, reflecting improved farmgate returns and a more positive outlook for sheep and beef farming businesses.
While challenges remain, there was a shared sense that farmers are entering a period where there is genuine opportunity to grow profitability and strengthen businesses for the future.
B+LNZ Chief Executive Alan Thomson said the sector is entering a period of opportunity, but that lasting success will depend on making good decisions and building on the strong foundations already in place. He shared B+LNZ's strategic direction and priorities for the years ahead, encouraging farmers to capitalise on the current momentum and create long-term value within their businesses.
Lifting farm performance
One of the discussion points was the significant opportunity that exists within individual farming businesses.
Data shared during the event highlighted the variation in performance between farms operating in similar environments. The message was clear: there is no one-size-fits-all approach, but understanding your numbers, identifying opportunities and making incremental improvements can have a major impact on profitability over time.
Discussion also focused on the value of benchmarking, learning from other farmers and regularly reviewing what's working and what could be done differently.
Managing risk in an uncertain world
While confidence is improving, farmers were encouraged to continue thinking about risk and resilience.
With weather, markets and regulation continuing to evolve, having plans in place and building resilient farm systems remains important. Sponsored session speakers from FMG discussed practical ways farmers can help protect their businesses, families and livelihoods when unexpected challenges arise.
Thank you
A huge thank you to our sponsors for helping make this year's Big Dine In a success. We particularly acknowledge Gold sponsors FMG and Unlimit Accountants, alongside Silver Fern Farmers, Ravensdown, Agricom, ANZ, Landscape Essentials Nursery, Heli, Fieldtorque and Honda Hub Hāwera for their support of the event. Their contribution helps create valuable opportunities for farmers to connect, learn and share ideas.
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