Dairy farmers come under the spotlight this week as judging for the 2011 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards begin.



National convenor Chris Keeping says entrants are encouraged to be unique with their presentations and demonstrate their passion for dairy farming and career goals.

Entrants in the New Zealand Sharemilker/ Equity Farmer of the Year competition and New Zealand Farm Manager of the Year contest have two-hour on-farm judging sessions.

Entrants in the New Zealand Dairy Trainee of the Year competition compete in a 30 minute practical session in a central location.

Chris says the feedback entrants receive during the competition could improve their business making it invaluable.

'As entrants have to present all aspects of their business to the judges, the judges are in a position to identify or highlight areas of improvement or opportunity for their business.”

Organisers recommend entrants read the judging criteria, seek advice from past entrants about what to expect, have a practice run-through and avoid any distractions.

'Those that do prepare well will learn a bit more about their farm business by having to think about what their strengths are, where they want their farm business to go and how they are going to get there.”