Next generation in the spotlight

I mean that in a good way. The Annual Conference was not just about policy debate. It was also about recognising the efforts of all generations of farmers in advancing food and fibre production.

Many people diligently work away at policy development, lobbying and governance roles for many years with little reward. This year we recognise John Ainsworth, Mark Horan and Mitchell Clapham, who received medals of honour at the conference for dedication to representing the interests of farmers and rural communities. Certificates of honour were also presented to Debra Buller, Ron Cullen, Terry Fishpool, Cameron Rowntree, Laurie Chaffey, Angus Atkinson, Daniel Cooper, Andrew Forsyth, Brett Guthrey and Elizabeth Tomlinson.

The activities of local branches were acknowledged in the NSW Farmers Branch of the Year awards. Billabong won the overall title of the year award for the branch's efforts in engaging with community and government in relation to proposed large scale solar developments. Cumberland Branch and Western Young Farmers Branch also took out awards for membership growth.

The next generation of farmers were also in the spotlight with five outstanding students receiving NSW Farmers tertiary scholarships. Agriculture is well placed to become the next $100 billion industry and farmers across the state will need the innovative thinking and skills of the next crop of young farmers and service providers.

I would also like to congratulate the new Young Farmers council that was elected at Annual Conference. I look forward to working with Rachel Nicoll as the Young Farmer Chair and Martin Murray as Deputy Chair.

Outgoing Chair Tim Carroll was recognised for his work in raising the profile of young farmers. Under Tim's leadership, NSW Young Farmers significantly grew in more ways than one.

- NSW Farmers president James Jackson