In November 2017 New Holland launched the True Blue Future Farmers Support Package programme and the first round of applications did not disappoint.
Having so many quality submissions was both a blessing and a curse, and made selecting just three winners a damn tough afternoon for the New Holland team.
True Blue Future Farmer Support Packages are up for grabs every six months, with the winning clubs receiving $1,500 to put towards learning and development opportunities for their members.
Ashley Clinton Norsewood Young Farmers Club were one of the lucky first round recipients and the funding they received allowed six of their members to attend a two day chainsaw safety course.
“What made their application stand out was the fact that they wanted to do something that was both a learning opportunity for members and a way to support future fundraising for the club” said James Ross, New Holland North Island Sales Manager.
“Going through the course will make Health and Safety compliance for fundraising options like firewood much easier. And increased fundraising opportunities will hopefully give the club the ability to deliver more skill development activities for their members in the future. We really liked the idea of the Future Farmer Support Package funding having that flow on effect,” said James.
Delivered by Primary ITO, the course was broken into two parts – a theory day and a practical day.
Everyone on the course walked away with valuable new skills said Robert Barry, one of the course attendees.
“Before this course I would avoid chainsaws as I knew they were dangerous and that I didn't fully understand how to safely operate them. The most use I've personally had was in the East Coast Regional Final of the FMG Young Farmer of the Year a few weeks ago. But going through the course has given me a lot of confidence.
There were a lot of really relevant scenarios we learnt about. We covered the safest way to cut wood under tension and compression, which is very common with the wind fall trees we will come across on the farm.
Now I am looking forward to the next club firewood fundraiser. So get in touch with Ashley Clinton Norsewood Young Farmers if you want some wood split.” said Robert.
Has your Club got a great idea for what you could achieve with the help of a True Blue Future Farmers Support Package? Keep an eye on the New Holland Agriculture Facebook page for application details or
click here