ATS Newsbrief September 2014
There’s been plenty of political debate around employment and how to find staff, not surprising given the general election is only a couple of weeks away, but for us in the provinces it is hardly news. We have long experienced high employment levels and having to go abroad to attract staff for all sorts of vacancies. While the obvious examples of this are the many immigrant workers who come to take up positions with farming and agricultural operations, either on a seasonal basis or in permanent positions, I believe it is an issue which many businesses face across a variety of skills and professions. Neal Shaw, Group CEO Many businesses looking for staff to fill management or senior roles can struggle to attract staff to apply, and then when they do, many are not prepared to settle or re-locate and opt to commute. This is only good for 12 months or so, and is not sustainable for all concerned with the long days and travel eventually taking its toll. I think it is an indictment on working in provincial New Zealand. We all know there are employment issues in other parts of the country and especially the cities, but so many New Zealanders are reluctant to move to where the work is, and arguably some of the better living conditions. Recent statistics released by Grow Mid Canterbury show the region’s GDP grew by 4.2 percent last year, compared to the national rate of 2.6 percent. This means our district is producing more and is growing. Job growth statistics show a national rate of 0.8 per cent last year, compared with 5.7 percent in the Ashburton District. Add to that media reports which show our wage rates are growing while our house prices remain cheaper than the national average. Our close proximity and ease of access to Christchurch and an enviable environment well suited to an outdoor lifestyle should make our district look like an attractive option for job seekers. What’s not to like? There are plenty of job opportunities for Kiwis, but it might mean some will have to take a closer look at what our provinces have to offer both in career and lifestyle prospects.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Farm Safety Training for Members 16 September 21 October 18 November
For more information or to RSVP, call 0800 BUY ATS (289 287) or go to www.ats.co.nz/farmsafety
22 September South Canterbury Anniversary Day
27 September
ATS Ashburton closed for stock take
28 September
Daylight Savings
27 October Labour Day
31 October & 1 November Ashburton A&P Show
ATS is proud to support the 2014 Ashburton A & P Show. Please come join us at the ATS marquee for lunch. Don’t forget your Ruralco Card as you’ll need it for admittance.
14 November
Canterbury Anniversary (Show weekend)
Annual General Meeting—First Notice UPCOMING INDUSTRY EVENTS
In accordance with Rule 5 (a)(i), notice is given that Monday 17th November 2014 has been selected as the date of the 51st Annual General Meeting of the Ashburton Trading Society Limited, which will be held at the Hotel Ashburton, Racecourse Road, Ashburton 7700. Formal notice of that meeting will be given in due course.
11 September
NOMINATION Messers Ian Mackenzie and Alister Body retire by rotation in accordance with Rule 6(c). Mr Mackenzie and Mr Body are seeking re-election. If you wish to nominate a member for the position of a Director of the Ashburton Trading Society Limited, your attention is drawn to the following:
This event will discuss consistent use and input data, understanding some of the assumptions the calculator utilises, along with a few other tips. It will be held at Lincoln Events Centre. For more information contact Nick Tait on 027 838 6792.
1. You are required to be a financial member—your account must be current to the satisfaction of the Society.
25 September
2. The completed form of nomination must be in the hands of the Secretary by 5.30pm, Friday 3rd October 2014. Nomination forms are available from ATS Reception. Alternatively telephone (03) 307 5100 or visit www.ats.co.nz/nomination.
Neal Shaw Chief Executive/Company Secretary
Dairy Effluent Storage Calculator RP event
Hinds/Longbeach Farm Systems Group This Farm Systems Group discusses and investigates farm systems and farm related issues on the host farm, including current topics and upcoming seasonal matters. It is an open forum utilising the experience of all members in the group. For more information contact Natalia on 021 287 7059.