Hugh Jackson Crowned 2025 FMG Young Farmer Of The Year
A community gem and dedicated Young Farmers member, the 26-year-old sheep and beef farmer was crowned the 57th FMG Young Farmer of the year on Saturday evening after a nail-biting Grand Final event in Invercargill.
This was Jackson's second time as a Grand Finalist – his dream was to win FMG Young Farmer of the Year, and entering this year meant now or never.
With challenges that included exams, interviews, heavy machinery, livestock, quizzes, and public speaking, all seven Grand Finalists were head-to-head as they attempted to gain a point-scoring advantage over their competition.
Each contestant had just one goal – bringing the trophy home to their region.
'I'm really relieved to get here,' Jackson says straight after the announcement.
'It was a nerve-wracking last couple of hours, so to get that weight off my shoulders is massive. It's been a lot of years in the making'.
Spectators poured into the Winton Racecourse to watch the action unfold during Friday's practical contest. The contestants were put through their paces, with tasks such as shearing sheep, building bridges, filleting fish and making haybales, to show off their diverse practical farming skills.
Tensions rose as points added up until the final buzzer quiz on Saturday night.
In the end, Hugh pushed past the competition, with Gareth McKerchar missing out on the title by 68 points in second place, and Tasman Young Farmer George Letham finishing up in third place.
Working on his family's farm in Te Akau, north of Raglan, Jackson spends his days working with his 'old man'. With an interest in technology, and a passion for mental health, he is currently also the Chair of Hamilton City Young Farmers Club.
Jackson hopes winning FMG Young Farmer of the Year will support him in getting his brand out there and showcasing agriculture in the Waikato and across the rest of New Zealand.
Technology, he believes, has a massive part to play in the future, as well as the young people who will ultimately be using it.
'With this title, I really hope to help showcase the talent we have coming through and highlight the opportunities that are there for young people.'
'Where the industry is moving in terms of technology is exciting, and there is an opportunity where we can really grow people and provide career opportunities within that.'
As well as the coveted title, Jackson also claimed first place in the Community Footprint module, the AgriBusiness challenge, the AgriSports section, and takes home the big prize bounty.
New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly said Jackson impressed everyone with his innovative thinking and shining talent across the agricultural sector.
'FMG Young Farmer of the Year is one of the most prestigious farming awards in the country. It's inspiring to see the recognition go to someone who will not only be a strong ambassador for the next generation of young farmers, but across the agricultural industry.'
'After seeing the talent from this weekend, the future is bright and forward-thinking for New Zealand's food and fibre sector.'
Gillooly also paid special tribute to the hundreds of volunteers who ensured Season 57 went ahead without a hitch.
'We're incredibly grateful for everyone who has contributed their time, knowledge, and skills to make this season a roaring success.'
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