Emma takes the crown

As well as calling on her family’s wisdom, a Pirongia dairy farmer says she’ll incorporate preparation into day-to-day on-farm tasks.

Emma Poole, from Te Kawa West Young Farmers, was recently crowned the Waikato/ Bay of Plenty Young Farmer of the Year.

She took the title of her husband, Chris Poole, who was the Season 54 Waikato/Bay of Plenty Young Farmer of the Year. Her brother, Tim Dangen, took out last year’s Grand Final, making him the current FMG Young Farmer of the Year title holder.

It’s Emma’s second shot at going for gold, as she was an FMG Young Farmer of the Year grand nalist in 2019.

Following her win, she explains that her focus is now building up her physical strength and tness.

“Between Chris, Tim and I, we all have di erent strengths, so I will be able to pick their brains on some things that I’m not so good at.

“At the end of the day, winning or not winning, being able to put on a quality display will be my priority.”

Edward Roskam, also from Te Kawa West Young Farmers, placed second, with Cameron Wratt from Morrinsville Ngarua Young Farmers securing the nal spot on the podium.

New Zealand Young Farmer Board chair Jessie Waite says this year’s Grand Final is shaping up to be one of the best yet.

“We’re starting to get a glimpse of the impressive array of skills and talent coming through with the next generation of young farmers. ere’s so much happening right now in the primary sector with science, innovation and new technologies. e future of farming is certainly bright.” ere’s a lot of hard work that goes on behind the scenes –from coming up with ideas for the competition to supplying the equipment needed on the day and helping with the set-up of the event. We’re so grateful to everyone who has played a part.”

Emma says she’s thankful for the support of volunteers and sponsors who continue to back the event, year-after-year.

“ e contest wouldn’t be what it is today without them.