Employing members of Rural Contractors of New Zealand gives farmers confidence that they are dealing with credible operators, says the association's president Steve Levet.

Steve Levet is president of Rural Contractors of New Zealand.

'Members of the association are professionals and not fly-by-nighters. For farmers, employing responsible operators is important – not only because they know the job will get done properly, but that it will also be done safely. Ultimately, when it comes to health and safety, if an accident happens on farm, the farm owner can also be held responsible,” says Steve.

For contractors, belonging to the association brings a number of benefits, including networking with others in the industry, training and registration and savings in fuel and insurance costs.

Steve, who was elected president six months ago and operators his own family contracting business from Wellsford, initially joined because of the networking opportunities the association offered.

'Rural contracting is by nature competitive; and you don't exactly want to discuss your charges or issues with your opposition, but it's important to know you are on the right track with what you charge and other aspects of your business. Being able to meet and talk to other contractors from around the country makes that a lot easier.

'We all face the same issues; and over the years, through the association, I have made some great friends.”

Rural Contractors New Zealand supports and promotes training and education in the industry. The main focus is on training, which is administered by InfraTrain New Zealand, the industry training organisation.

'The association gives rural contractors a voice when it comes to legislation which affects our members. We also work closely with Federated Farmers and in recent years have been successful in getting changes made to legislation, including rule changes to the use of agricultural vehicles on roads, and working hours for contractors.”

The association holds an annual conference, which Steve says is an excellent opportunity to hear from top speakers about issues affecting the industry and to network with others from throughout the country.

Steve, whose family were among the 'Albertlanders' to first settle Wellsford in 1862, is a registered rural contractor.

'That means I have paid my taxes, have a first aid certificate and health and safety policies in place including first aid kits in all vehicles; and I operate under a terms of trade agreement for each contract I carry out.”

Most rural contractors have a farming background and many businesses, like farms, are family-owned.

'Rural contractors know their industry and farming well and understand what farmers needs are. In fact, many of us are also farmers,” says Steve.

To find out more, or locate a member of Rural Contractors New Zealand, go to: www.ruralcontractors.org.nz