Hi-tech insights feature at high country field day

Hi-tech insights feature at high country field day

Technological advances and the opportunities they present for lifting agriculture production and business performance will be a strong focus of the South Island Farmer of the Year winner’s field day at Omarama Station on Friday, 26 February.

Presented by the Lincoln University Foundation with hosts, 2015 joint winners Richard and Annabelle Subtil, the field day will offer a unique and inspirational insight into the operation of this multi-award winning station.

Owner Richard Subtil says he is particularly keen on the increasing role technology can play in the operation of primary businesses, especially how it can apply in the South Island high country to lift production, improve efficiency and increase profit.

“Data management systems, land management using drones, aerial soil assessment and new market and food production technologies will be a feature of the day,” he says. “There will be much for field day attendees to consider and apply to their own businesses.”

The growing need for a strong relationship between producer and consumer will also be a feature, with Dave Anderson CFO and COO from Icebreaker and Rob Hewett Chair of Silver Fern Farms discussing how consumer demands shape production back on the farm.

Lincoln University Foundation Chair Ben Todhunter says it is going to be a practical applications field day with much of the activity occurring in-field rather than via static presentations.

“Attendees will be able to drive through the station, stopping for pertinent presentations along the way,” Todhunter says. “The information will be relevant to some of the key issues in farming today, especially in the high country, and demonstrate how good technological solutions can make a real difference.”

In addition to the Subtils and their team, the field day guest list includes: Mark Ferguson, Production Science Manager at The New Zealand Merino Company talking about opportunities in fine wool after three years of evaluating Merinos in New Zealand; Michael White, Technical Development Manager, Ravensdown discussing aerial sensing for soil testing and computerised/GPS controlled fertiliser dispersal for the high country; and Brendan O’Connell, Head of Business Development, Tru-Test Group who’ll outline the potential future of food and farming given emerging technologies and new market conditions. Additionally, there will be a presentation about high performance drones for multiple farm use, discussions on negotiation strategies and an opportunity for an interactive panel with speakers at the end of the day.

Bookings essential:
On-line: http://www.lincolnuniversityfoundation.org.nz/farmer-of-the-year-field-days/
Or RSVP to: Nicky Burgess E: nicola.burgess@lincoln.ac.nz // P: 03 423 0537 // C: 027 5858 417

ENDS

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