Supreme award for couple
the herd homes to reduce machinery requirements.
Water quality is a high priority on Tremeer.
Waterways have been fenced since 2002 and an ongoing riparian planting programme is in place.
Thousands of native plants have been established in the last 10 years and this has led to a significant improvement in birdlife.
BFEA judges said Grant and Karen keep up to date with technology and research advances.
The couple has strong links to rural professionals and this helps add value to their business.
Judges also noted the excellent mapping and recording of effluent areas, with major efficiencies gained by testing each paddock for fertiliser requirements.
They praised the couple’s ‘‘shared responsibility’’ approach to staff management, and their commitment to balancing their business careers with community and family life.
Karen has taught new entrants at Walton School for 16 years and she and Grant have three adult children – Zeb, Beau and Kelsie.
Grant is a Fonterra Shareholders’ Councillor for the Matamata ward, chairing the cooperative development committee of the Fonterra Shareholders’ Council.
Judges said Grant and Karen’s business success has helped facilitate their involvement in community activities ‘‘ and this is highly commended’’.
A field day will be held at Tremeer on Wednesday, May 15.