DairyNZ Directors Election and AGM

M: 027 694 4334
E: jsrowarth@gmail.com
Candidate video: Watch Jacqueline's candidate video

Candidate statement

Financial viability, science, communication and education – these have never been more important for agriculture on farm, in towns, and in the corridors of power.

On farm we need the results of excellent research to help with management of animals and environment to achieve economic viability. In urban environments we need communication on what it takes to produce high quality protein. In Wellington we need the science and economic implications to make our case to Ministry policy developers and Government leaders. The success of DairyNZ’s work rests on good science and the ability to explain that science within the context of economic impact.

I have worked in the areas of agricultural science, agribusiness, communication and education for over 40 years. I use research results on farm and around the board table to make a difference, while also taking information to urban groups and professional gatherings regularly and frequently. Like you, I am a levy payer who cares about creating a sustainable future. Sustainability includes economic viability as well as environmental protection. By achieving both we will be able to continue producing the high-quality products that underpin our export economy and provide New Zealanders with a first-world lifestyle.

Progress is being made on the compliance regulations that have restricted innovation and technological uptake on farm, but more needs to be done. Our organisations must take a higher profile in putting forward the facts and DairyNZ is in a prime position to make a difference.

I am a scientist and practical farmer with decades of experience in education, communication and governance. I will be the voice of science on the Board and in the field - science that has been set within a farm system and has had the economic impact evaluated.

We need that voice, and that science, now more than ever.

Interest statement

To the best of my knowledge and belief, I have no conflicts of interest with DairyNZ at the date of my notice of consent to being nominated as a candidate for the Board of Directors and I do not believe that any such conflicts of interest are likely to arise.

M: 021 143 1588
E: mcintyredairy@hotmail.com
Candidate video: Watch Richard's candidate video

Candidate statement

I’m standing for DairyNZ because I’m passionate about dairy farming. I can see the challenges we’re facing as a sector, and I believe I can make a real contribution and difference around the board table.

My wife Emma and I are herd-owning sharemilkers in the Horowhenua where we milk 450 cows, rear 600 calves, and lease a 180ha dry stock farm as we work our way towards farm ownership. We have two teenage children, Olivia (17) and Matthew (15).

I’m currently in my third and final year as the Federated Farmers Dairy Chair where I also sit on the Board. Through this role I’ve led the charge pushing for an independent inquiry into rural banking, workable animal welfare regulations and practical immigration settings.

Many farmers are struggling at the moment with increased costs, reduced incomes, and squeezed profits. There are also some significant challenges when it comes to filling gaps in our workforce and the wave of environmental changes coming our way.

Farmers are quite rightly looking to DairyNZ for practical solutions that will improve productivity, increase profitability and reduce environmental footprint, but I don’t feel those needs are currently being met as well as they could be.

If elected, I’d like to see DairyNZ reconnect with their levy payers, understand our needs, and really focus on the areas where they can add the most value – their core functions of research, science and extension.

I have extensive and relevant governance experience including six years on the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards trust, six years on the Wellington Fish & Game Council and two years on the NZ Fish & Game Council.

I have completed the Fonterra Governance Development programme and a term as a DairyNZ Associate Director.

If you trust me with your vote, I won’t let you down.

Interest statement

To the best of my knowledge and belief, I have no conflicts of interest with DairyNZ at the date of my notice of consent to being nominated as a candidate for the Board of Directors other than membership of the following groups or organisations.

• Federated Farmers Dairy Chairperson and Board Member
• Wellington Region Fish & Game Councillor
• International Dairy Federation NZ Committee Member
• International Dairy Federation Animal Welfare and Farm Management Standing Committees