They might only be riding mini tractors at the moment – but there’s no doubt the little tackers at field days will be running the farm and industry in no time at all.
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In an address to field day goers, NSW Farmer Association president James Jackson reflected on where the sector needs to go, and how young people will get it there.
Mr Jackson said data access, lower electricity prices and solidifying a farmer’s right to farm were essential moving forward.
He said those on the land need to engage urban people as allies who understand the future challenges and importance of farming.
Already, through online presences like Little Brick Pastoral and Thank a Farmer For Your Next Meal, young farmers are opening the farm gate for city dwellers to understand.
Mr Jackson said this work was vital in getting city people to support farming rights,
“The lateral thinking of young people today on how to reengage urban folk is absolutely inspiring,” he said.
Technological advancement was on show at the Agri-Innovator Awards with Temora’s Justin Dunn taking out the main prize for his solar power sheep feeder, The Shepherd.
He uses the timed feeder twice a day out in his paddocks.
“We never would have put these out into the paddock if a drought didn’t come about,” Mr Dunn said.
“It’s really out of necessity, we pushed them out of the feed lot and into the paddock.
“The only way you can create efficiency these days is by buying technology.”