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Scoop
26-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
Sustainable Science In Action At Fieldays© 2025
Press Release – Massey University The project began with New Zealands first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics … Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University returns to Fieldays® with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity. Visit us at the Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PE51) from 11-14 June to see how Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is shaping the future of farming and how you can be part of it. Laying the genetic groundwork for the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's working dogs Right Dog for the Job is a three-year research project led by Massey University, in collaboration with industry partners including Pāmu and Focus Genetics. The project is co-funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund and supported by The goal? To better understand the genetics of New Zealand's unique working dogs and lay the foundation for future genetic testing and selection tools. The project began with New Zealand's first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics influence health and performance. Researchers are now analysing the frequency of potentially harmful recessive variants, comparing them to those known in overseas breeds. This work supports more informed breeding decisions and aims to improve the health, working ability and longevity of our working dogs. Of nearly 400 known variants linked to health or physical traits in other breeds, 27 were found in the dogs sampled with five appearing at high enough frequency to warrant further testing. Learn more about the five DNA variants. Professor Matt Littlejohn and members of the research team will be at Fieldays to share insights into the project and demonstrate how selective breeding can support healthier, more capable working dogs. Visitors can even get hands-on with an interactive 'Tinder for working dogs' experience, where they'll be tasked to identify the healthiest breeding matches based on genetic compatibility. Dog whistles will be up for grabs for successful participants, along with the chance to win a genetics kit, thanks to As the project moves into its next phase, including collecting more DNA samples and collaborating with farmers and vets to track health and performance traits, Professor Littlejohn says connecting with the farming community is key. 'The long term aim is to enable future tools for breeders and dog owners, not just to avoid genetic disease but to select for the traits that really matter on farm. If the research can help pick the best dog for the job, it will make a real difference to farm efficiency and the wellbeing of both dog and handler.' Where culture uplifts innovation: packaging that expands with purpose Bringing together contemporary Māori design and engineering science has been the focus of the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora (auxetic kōwhaiwhai) packaging project, a collaborative effort between our College of Creative Arts and College of Sciences. The fruit packaging uses an auxetic design, a material that expands rather than contracts when stretched, unlike conventional materials. Developed as part of a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Smart Ideas project, a key objective was to create packaging that not only protects delicate horticultural products more effectively but also celebrates Māori culture. Kōwhaiwhai patterns are woven into the design, symbolising protection and care, signifying that what lies within is taonga (treasure). Packaging expert Dr Eli Gray-Stuart explains that the moulded tray suspends the fruit off the base of the box, working in tandem with the auxetic structure to offer an added layer of protection. 'The goal of this packaging is twofold. First, it minimises damage to the fruit, which can reduce their saleability and contribute to food waste. The auxetic material absorbs and distributes impact more evenly, moulding around the product to protect it during transport. Second, the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora design integrates cultural and company values and narratives into a visually compelling and sustainable packaging solution.' The packaging has already been used successfully by Māori Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated at their collaborative marketing launch in Hawaii last year. The team hopes to move toward commercial production through future partnerships. Visitors to Fieldays can explore demonstrations and prototypes at Massey's stand, where Dr Gray-Stuart will be on hand to share more about the development process and the cultural and scientific thinking behind the final product. Visitors interested in the project will have the chance to take home a keepsake featuring the auxetic kōwhaiwhai packaging material. Mitigating the cost of shearing through self-shedding sheep With many farmers finding that the price of wool no longer offsets the cost of shearing, what was once a profitable process is now an increasing expense. To explore alternatives, a long-term project at Massey's Riverside Farm in Wairarapa is investigating the viability of self-shedding sheep, specifically Wiltshires which naturally shed their fleece once a year. The research has two key aims: first, to model the profitability of transitioning from traditional Romney sheep to self-shedding Wiltshires, and second, to conduct a multi-year flock study tracking the production and performance of the sheep as the flock is gradually bred towards Wiltshire genetics. Read about the background of the self-shedding sheep project. Running since 2020, the project has already yielded promising insights. By collecting animal performance health and wool data from sheep from varying proportions of Wiltshire to compare with the original Romney-type sheep, the study aims to better understand the genetic control of shedding. This study will continue to collect production data to support farmer decision making for the future of their flocks. The project will extend until 2028. Dr Nick Sneddon and his team will be sharing more about the project at Fieldays, including its findings and what they could mean for the future of farming in New Zealand. 'We've noticed a range of how much shedding the sheep in our trial will do, and that variation is really useful for to selecting the next generation. Understanding the drivers of these differences means farmers can move more quickly toward a fully shedding flock, while still keeping the other important traits they value in their non-shedding sheep. We're also digging into the genetics behind self-shedding. The goal is to eventually develop a genetic test so we can easily identify which sheep carry the right genes,' he says. Discover your future with Massey Massey experts will also feature at the MPI Science for Farmers site, providing updates on Whenua Haumanu, New Zealand's most comprehensive regenerative and pastoral agriculture research programme, and the Catchment Solutions project, which builds capability to improve freshwater outcomes. Our experts will be on hand all week to discuss the latest in these projects, and how farmers, communities and others can get involved. Programme Leader Professor Danny Donaghy will be giving an informative talk on diverse pastures on Thursday 12 June at 9.30am at the MPI Science for Farmers site. You can also catch Bachelor of Agriculture Science alumna and KS Agri consultant Nerissa Edwards at the Wāhine toa o te Whenua – Young Leaders panel discussion, taking place at site E38 on Thursday 12 June from 10:30 to 11:30am. The panel provides a platform for young female leaders in the food and fibre sector to share their experiences and highlight the diverse range of roles available. Academic and Future Student Advisors will be available throughout the four days to answer course-related questions and connect visitors with study and career opportunities. With over 150 qualifications and degrees on offer across five colleges, our advisors can set you on the right course for your success.
Scoop
26-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
Sustainable Science In Action At Fieldays© 2025
Press Release – Massey University The project began with New Zealands first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics … Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University returns to Fieldays® with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity. Visit us at the Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PE51) from 11-14 June to see how Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is shaping the future of farming and how you can be part of it. Laying the genetic groundwork for the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's working dogs Right Dog for the Job is a three-year research project led by Massey University, in collaboration with industry partners including Pāmu and Focus Genetics. The project is co-funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund and supported by The goal? To better understand the genetics of New Zealand's unique working dogs and lay the foundation for future genetic testing and selection tools. The project began with New Zealand's first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics influence health and performance. Researchers are now analysing the frequency of potentially harmful recessive variants, comparing them to those known in overseas breeds. This work supports more informed breeding decisions and aims to improve the health, working ability and longevity of our working dogs. Of nearly 400 known variants linked to health or physical traits in other breeds, 27 were found in the dogs sampled with five appearing at high enough frequency to warrant further testing. Learn more about the five DNA variants. Professor Matt Littlejohn and members of the research team will be at Fieldays to share insights into the project and demonstrate how selective breeding can support healthier, more capable working dogs. Visitors can even get hands-on with an interactive 'Tinder for working dogs' experience, where they'll be tasked to identify the healthiest breeding matches based on genetic compatibility. Dog whistles will be up for grabs for successful participants, along with the chance to win a genetics kit, thanks to As the project moves into its next phase, including collecting more DNA samples and collaborating with farmers and vets to track health and performance traits, Professor Littlejohn says connecting with the farming community is key. 'The long term aim is to enable future tools for breeders and dog owners, not just to avoid genetic disease but to select for the traits that really matter on farm. If the research can help pick the best dog for the job, it will make a real difference to farm efficiency and the wellbeing of both dog and handler.' Where culture uplifts innovation: packaging that expands with purpose Bringing together contemporary Māori design and engineering science has been the focus of the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora (auxetic kōwhaiwhai) packaging project, a collaborative effort between our College of Creative Arts and College of Sciences. The fruit packaging uses an auxetic design, a material that expands rather than contracts when stretched, unlike conventional materials. Developed as part of a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Smart Ideas project, a key objective was to create packaging that not only protects delicate horticultural products more effectively but also celebrates Māori culture. Kōwhaiwhai patterns are woven into the design, symbolising protection and care, signifying that what lies within is taonga (treasure). Packaging expert Dr Eli Gray-Stuart explains that the moulded tray suspends the fruit off the base of the box, working in tandem with the auxetic structure to offer an added layer of protection. 'The goal of this packaging is twofold. First, it minimises damage to the fruit, which can reduce their saleability and contribute to food waste. The auxetic material absorbs and distributes impact more evenly, moulding around the product to protect it during transport. Second, the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora design integrates cultural and company values and narratives into a visually compelling and sustainable packaging solution.' The packaging has already been used successfully by Māori Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated at their collaborative marketing launch in Hawaii last year. The team hopes to move toward commercial production through future partnerships. Visitors to Fieldays can explore demonstrations and prototypes at Massey's stand, where Dr Gray-Stuart will be on hand to share more about the development process and the cultural and scientific thinking behind the final product. Visitors interested in the project will have the chance to take home a keepsake featuring the auxetic kōwhaiwhai packaging material. Mitigating the cost of shearing through self-shedding sheep With many farmers finding that the price of wool no longer offsets the cost of shearing, what was once a profitable process is now an increasing expense. To explore alternatives, a long-term project at Massey's Riverside Farm in Wairarapa is investigating the viability of self-shedding sheep, specifically Wiltshires which naturally shed their fleece once a year. The research has two key aims: first, to model the profitability of transitioning from traditional Romney sheep to self-shedding Wiltshires, and second, to conduct a multi-year flock study tracking the production and performance of the sheep as the flock is gradually bred towards Wiltshire genetics. Read about the background of the self-shedding sheep project. Running since 2020, the project has already yielded promising insights. By collecting animal performance health and wool data from sheep from varying proportions of Wiltshire to compare with the original Romney-type sheep, the study aims to better understand the genetic control of shedding. This study will continue to collect production data to support farmer decision making for the future of their flocks. The project will extend until 2028. Dr Nick Sneddon and his team will be sharing more about the project at Fieldays, including its findings and what they could mean for the future of farming in New Zealand. 'We've noticed a range of how much shedding the sheep in our trial will do, and that variation is really useful for to selecting the next generation. Understanding the drivers of these differences means farmers can move more quickly toward a fully shedding flock, while still keeping the other important traits they value in their non-shedding sheep. We're also digging into the genetics behind self-shedding. The goal is to eventually develop a genetic test so we can easily identify which sheep carry the right genes,' he says. Discover your future with Massey Massey experts will also feature at the MPI Science for Farmers site, providing updates on Whenua Haumanu, New Zealand's most comprehensive regenerative and pastoral agriculture research programme, and the Catchment Solutions project, which builds capability to improve freshwater outcomes. Our experts will be on hand all week to discuss the latest in these projects, and how farmers, communities and others can get involved. Programme Leader Professor Danny Donaghy will be giving an informative talk on diverse pastures on Thursday 12 June at 9.30am at the MPI Science for Farmers site. You can also catch Bachelor of Agriculture Science alumna and KS Agri consultant Nerissa Edwards at the Wāhine toa o te Whenua – Young Leaders panel discussion, taking place at site E38 on Thursday 12 June from 10:30 to 11:30am. The panel provides a platform for young female leaders in the food and fibre sector to share their experiences and highlight the diverse range of roles available. Academic and Future Student Advisors will be available throughout the four days to answer course-related questions and connect visitors with study and career opportunities. With over 150 qualifications and degrees on offer across five colleges, our advisors can set you on the right course for your success.
Scoop
26-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
Sustainable Science In Action At Fieldays© 2025
Press Release – Massey University The project began with New Zealands first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics … Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University returns to Fieldays® with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity. Visit us at the Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PE51) from 11-14 June to see how Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is shaping the future of farming and how you can be part of it. Laying the genetic groundwork for the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's working dogs Right Dog for the Job is a three-year research project led by Massey University, in collaboration with industry partners including Pāmu and Focus Genetics. The project is co-funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund and supported by The goal? To better understand the genetics of New Zealand's unique working dogs and lay the foundation for future genetic testing and selection tools. The project began with New Zealand's first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics influence health and performance. Researchers are now analysing the frequency of potentially harmful recessive variants, comparing them to those known in overseas breeds. This work supports more informed breeding decisions and aims to improve the health, working ability and longevity of our working dogs. Of nearly 400 known variants linked to health or physical traits in other breeds, 27 were found in the dogs sampled with five appearing at high enough frequency to warrant further testing. Learn more about the five DNA variants. Professor Matt Littlejohn and members of the research team will be at Fieldays to share insights into the project and demonstrate how selective breeding can support healthier, more capable working dogs. Visitors can even get hands-on with an interactive 'Tinder for working dogs' experience, where they'll be tasked to identify the healthiest breeding matches based on genetic compatibility. Dog whistles will be up for grabs for successful participants, along with the chance to win a genetics kit, thanks to As the project moves into its next phase, including collecting more DNA samples and collaborating with farmers and vets to track health and performance traits, Professor Littlejohn says connecting with the farming community is key. 'The long term aim is to enable future tools for breeders and dog owners, not just to avoid genetic disease but to select for the traits that really matter on farm. If the research can help pick the best dog for the job, it will make a real difference to farm efficiency and the wellbeing of both dog and handler.' Where culture uplifts innovation: packaging that expands with purpose Bringing together contemporary Māori design and engineering science has been the focus of the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora (auxetic kōwhaiwhai) packaging project, a collaborative effort between our College of Creative Arts and College of Sciences. The fruit packaging uses an auxetic design, a material that expands rather than contracts when stretched, unlike conventional materials. Developed as part of a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Smart Ideas project, a key objective was to create packaging that not only protects delicate horticultural products more effectively but also celebrates Māori culture. Kōwhaiwhai patterns are woven into the design, symbolising protection and care, signifying that what lies within is taonga (treasure). Packaging expert Dr Eli Gray-Stuart explains that the moulded tray suspends the fruit off the base of the box, working in tandem with the auxetic structure to offer an added layer of protection. 'The goal of this packaging is twofold. First, it minimises damage to the fruit, which can reduce their saleability and contribute to food waste. The auxetic material absorbs and distributes impact more evenly, moulding around the product to protect it during transport. Second, the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora design integrates cultural and company values and narratives into a visually compelling and sustainable packaging solution.' The packaging has already been used successfully by Māori Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated at their collaborative marketing launch in Hawaii last year. The team hopes to move toward commercial production through future partnerships. Visitors to Fieldays can explore demonstrations and prototypes at Massey's stand, where Dr Gray-Stuart will be on hand to share more about the development process and the cultural and scientific thinking behind the final product. Visitors interested in the project will have the chance to take home a keepsake featuring the auxetic kōwhaiwhai packaging material. Mitigating the cost of shearing through self-shedding sheep With many farmers finding that the price of wool no longer offsets the cost of shearing, what was once a profitable process is now an increasing expense. To explore alternatives, a long-term project at Massey's Riverside Farm in Wairarapa is investigating the viability of self-shedding sheep, specifically Wiltshires which naturally shed their fleece once a year. The research has two key aims: first, to model the profitability of transitioning from traditional Romney sheep to self-shedding Wiltshires, and second, to conduct a multi-year flock study tracking the production and performance of the sheep as the flock is gradually bred towards Wiltshire genetics. Read about the background of the self-shedding sheep project. Running since 2020, the project has already yielded promising insights. By collecting animal performance health and wool data from sheep from varying proportions of Wiltshire to compare with the original Romney-type sheep, the study aims to better understand the genetic control of shedding. This study will continue to collect production data to support farmer decision making for the future of their flocks. The project will extend until 2028. Dr Nick Sneddon and his team will be sharing more about the project at Fieldays, including its findings and what they could mean for the future of farming in New Zealand. 'We've noticed a range of how much shedding the sheep in our trial will do, and that variation is really useful for to selecting the next generation. Understanding the drivers of these differences means farmers can move more quickly toward a fully shedding flock, while still keeping the other important traits they value in their non-shedding sheep. We're also digging into the genetics behind self-shedding. The goal is to eventually develop a genetic test so we can easily identify which sheep carry the right genes,' he says. Discover your future with Massey Massey experts will also feature at the MPI Science for Farmers site, providing updates on Whenua Haumanu, New Zealand's most comprehensive regenerative and pastoral agriculture research programme, and the Catchment Solutions project, which builds capability to improve freshwater outcomes. Our experts will be on hand all week to discuss the latest in these projects, and how farmers, communities and others can get involved. Programme Leader Professor Danny Donaghy will be giving an informative talk on diverse pastures on Thursday 12 June at 9.30am at the MPI Science for Farmers site. You can also catch Bachelor of Agriculture Science alumna and KS Agri consultant Nerissa Edwards at the Wāhine toa o te Whenua – Young Leaders panel discussion, taking place at site E38 on Thursday 12 June from 10:30 to 11:30am. The panel provides a platform for young female leaders in the food and fibre sector to share their experiences and highlight the diverse range of roles available. Academic and Future Student Advisors will be available throughout the four days to answer course-related questions and connect visitors with study and career opportunities. With over 150 qualifications and degrees on offer across five colleges, our advisors can set you on the right course for your success.
Scoop
26-05-2025
- Science
- Scoop
Sustainable Science In Action At Fieldays© 2025
Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University returns to Fieldays® with a future-focused, solution-driven theme, showcasing research that delivers practical advancements in agricultural efficiency, sustainability and longevity. Visit us at the Mystery Creek Pavilion (site PE51) from 11-14 June to see how Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University is shaping the future of farming and how you can be part of it. Laying the genetic groundwork for the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's working dogs Right Dog for the Job is a three-year research project led by Massey University, in collaboration with industry partners including Pāmu and Focus Genetics. The project is co-funded by the Ministry of Primary Industries through the Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund and supported by The goal? To better understand the genetics of New Zealand's unique working dogs and lay the foundation for future genetic testing and selection tools. The project began with New Zealand's first large-scale genetic study of working dogs, sequencing the genomes of 249 Huntaways, Heading Dogs and crossbreds. This revealed over 19 million DNA variants, a vital first step in uncovering how genetics influence health and performance. Researchers are now analysing the frequency of potentially harmful recessive variants, comparing them to those known in overseas breeds. This work supports more informed breeding decisions and aims to improve the health, working ability and longevity of our working dogs. Of nearly 400 known variants linked to health or physical traits in other breeds, 27 were found in the dogs sampled with five appearing at high enough frequency to warrant further testing. Learn more about the five DNA variants. Professor Matt Littlejohn and members of the research team will be at Fieldays to share insights into the project and demonstrate how selective breeding can support healthier, more capable working dogs. Visitors can even get hands-on with an interactive 'Tinder for working dogs' experience, where they'll be tasked to identify the healthiest breeding matches based on genetic compatibility. Dog whistles will be up for grabs for successful participants, along with the chance to win a genetics kit, thanks to As the project moves into its next phase, including collecting more DNA samples and collaborating with farmers and vets to track health and performance traits, Professor Littlejohn says connecting with the farming community is key. "The long term aim is to enable future tools for breeders and dog owners, not just to avoid genetic disease but to select for the traits that really matter on farm. If the research can help pick the best dog for the job, it will make a real difference to farm efficiency and the wellbeing of both dog and handler.' Where culture uplifts innovation: packaging that expands with purpose Bringing together contemporary Māori design and engineering science has been the focus of the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora (auxetic kōwhaiwhai) packaging project, a collaborative effort between our College of Creative Arts and College of Sciences. The fruit packaging uses an auxetic design, a material that expands rather than contracts when stretched, unlike conventional materials. Developed as part of a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Smart Ideas project, a key objective was to create packaging that not only protects delicate horticultural products more effectively but also celebrates Māori culture. Kōwhaiwhai patterns are woven into the design, symbolising protection and care, signifying that what lies within is taonga (treasure). Packaging expert Dr Eli Gray-Stuart explains that the moulded tray suspends the fruit off the base of the box, working in tandem with the auxetic structure to offer an added layer of protection. 'The goal of this packaging is twofold. First, it minimises damage to the fruit, which can reduce their saleability and contribute to food waste. The auxetic material absorbs and distributes impact more evenly, moulding around the product to protect it during transport. Second, the Kōwhaiwhai Pūtoi Koiora design integrates cultural and company values and narratives into a visually compelling and sustainable packaging solution.' The packaging has already been used successfully by Māori Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated at their collaborative marketing launch in Hawaii last year. The team hopes to move toward commercial production through future partnerships. Visitors to Fieldays can explore demonstrations and prototypes at Massey's stand, where Dr Gray-Stuart will be on hand to share more about the development process and the cultural and scientific thinking behind the final product. Visitors interested in the project will have the chance to take home a keepsake featuring the auxetic kōwhaiwhai packaging material. Mitigating the cost of shearing through self-shedding sheep With many farmers finding that the price of wool no longer offsets the cost of shearing, what was once a profitable process is now an increasing expense. To explore alternatives, a long-term project at Massey's Riverside Farm in Wairarapa is investigating the viability of self-shedding sheep, specifically Wiltshires which naturally shed their fleece once a year. The research has two key aims: first, to model the profitability of transitioning from traditional Romney sheep to self-shedding Wiltshires, and second, to conduct a multi-year flock study tracking the production and performance of the sheep as the flock is gradually bred towards Wiltshire genetics. Read about the background of the self-shedding sheep project. Running since 2020, the project has already yielded promising insights. By collecting animal performance health and wool data from sheep from varying proportions of Wiltshire to compare with the original Romney-type sheep, the study aims to better understand the genetic control of shedding. This study will continue to collect production data to support farmer decision making for the future of their flocks. The project will extend until 2028. Dr Nick Sneddon and his team will be sharing more about the project at Fieldays, including its findings and what they could mean for the future of farming in New Zealand. 'We've noticed a range of how much shedding the sheep in our trial will do, and that variation is really useful for to selecting the next generation. Understanding the drivers of these differences means farmers can move more quickly toward a fully shedding flock, while still keeping the other important traits they value in their non-shedding sheep. We're also digging into the genetics behind self-shedding. The goal is to eventually develop a genetic test so we can easily identify which sheep carry the right genes,' he says. Discover your future with Massey Massey experts will also feature at the MPI Science for Farmers site, providing updates on Whenua Haumanu, New Zealand's most comprehensive regenerative and pastoral agriculture research programme, and the Catchment Solutions project, which builds capability to improve freshwater outcomes. Our experts will be on hand all week to discuss the latest in these projects, and how farmers, communities and others can get involved. Programme Leader Professor Danny Donaghy will be giving an informative talk on diverse pastures on Thursday 12 June at 9.30am at the MPI Science for Farmers site. You can also catch Bachelor of Agriculture Science alumna and KS Agri consultant Nerissa Edwards at the Wāhine toa o te Whenua – Young Leaders panel discussion, taking place at site E38 on Thursday 12 June from 10:30 to 11:30am. The panel provides a platform for young female leaders in the food and fibre sector to share their experiences and highlight the diverse range of roles available. Academic and Future Student Advisors will be available throughout the four days to answer course-related questions and connect visitors with study and career opportunities. With over 150 qualifications and degrees on offer across five colleges, our advisors can set you on the right course for your success. Get your tickets for Fieldays® 2025 here:
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
We spent years tracking down WW2 hero to return heirloom my grandad kept for safe keeping – what we discovered amazed us
Debbie opened up about the moment when she picked up the phone to call the watch's owners AMATEUR SLEUTHS We spent years tracking down WW2 hero to return heirloom my grandad kept for safe keeping – what we discovered amazed us Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AFTER years of safeguarding a watch given to her grandfather in the Second World War, two sisters have finally tracked down its owners. Amateur sleuths Debbie Blaxhall and Tracey Stevenson's quest to find the heirloom's owners took them on a journey from the 1940s to a lavish lunch celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE Day earlier this month. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Debbie Blaxhall (left) with Janet Hunt (centre) and her granddaughter Naomi Hunt Credit: Ancestry 5 Arnold Sharrock, the watch's owner, was honoured at a VE celebration Credit: Ancestry 5 A card was the key to finding Arnold's address Credit: ©The National Archives Speaking to The Sun, she revealed how enabled her to do the 'right thing' for her grandparents. The story began back in World War Two, when Debbie's grandfather, Richard Houseman, first met another soldier named Arnold Sharrocks. Stationed near Middlesborough, the pair quickly became friends but were sadly separated when Arnold was posted elsewhere. As a parting gift to Richard and his wife Naomi, Arnold left his pocketwatch for safekeeping along with a note which read: 'Best wishes, Arnold.' Read More on Second World War FLY THE FLAG VE Day for kids: Facts about World War Two and how it ended, explained Neither one ever saw the other again. For years, that was all Debbie, now 59, knew about the mysterious watch, which had become legendary in her family. However, Debbie and her sister Tracey, 62, knew that, one day, they would have to help the watch find its way home. Debbie said: 'We were only looking after it for someone else. We could never dispose of it because we wanted to carry on that legacy.' The former nurse has always had an interest in her family history, but finally decided to send the watch home when Tracey found it in her late husband's belongings. They decided to reach out to Ancestry's military genealogist Simon Pierce for help. World War Two veterans come together to mark the 80th anniversary of their victory At first they hit a dead end, but then, a medal card - found by Simon - allowed Debbie to uncover that Arnold had married a lady called Joyce Finch. From there, she managed to find Janet Hunt, 64, Arnold's daughter, who also had an account on Debbie said she nervously deliberated for days about phoning Janet, but eventually 'bit the bullet'. When the line connected, though, she realised that Janet had no idea about the watch. She said: 'The poor woman; I honestly don't know what she thought, because I knew the story. 'She didn't have a clue, so I was trying to explain who I was and that I had her father's watch." Debbie added: 'I think it took a few days for it to sink in with her, but we were finally able to send her father's watch in February.' Welling up as Tracey finally let go of the watch which had meant so much to them, Debbie had one overriding feeling. Through tears, she said: 'It's going home.' decided to organise a meeting between Debbie and Janet at a fabulous VE Day party in London, in May 2025, but there was one final twist in the story. Debbie said: 'Janet and I thought we were actually going to meet at lunch, but we actually met at breakfast in the hotel where we were both staying.' She added: 'Her daughter said: 'I think this is them.' 'And I was saying the same to my husband, and eventually I just said: 'Yeah, it's us.' 'So we hugged and I just cried. But it's the fact that her daughter is called Naomi, the same name as my grandmother.' In another surprise, Debbie and Janet realised that they only lived 22 miles away from each other in Sussex. Arnold, and 79 other 'hidden heroes', were honoured with a commemorative plate at the lunch later that day. Debbie said: 'Each plate had a little plaque about the story that was represented. And they were all incredible. 'You just think these were all just normal people going about their lives, daily lives or doing their bit for the war. They were the hidden heroes. And it didn't just cover people in the armed forces. There were scouts, there were children who had done great things. 'There were a lot of women represented too, which was really lovely.' Janet revealed that Arnold had served with the 103rd Light Anti-Aircraft regiment - earning the France and German star for his heroic efforts. Stationed at first in the UK and, then, later in Europe, he also served in the Corps of Military Police. For Debbie, the journey has brought her grandparents 'back to life for a little while' as well as Arnold - who survived the war but sadly died when Debbie was nine. She doesn't know why he never came back for the watch, with the entire endeavour having 'raised more questions" for her "than it answered'. Now in regular contact with Janet, Debbie is considering a career in "genealogy" to find out more about her family tree. Still, she is thrilled to say that handing the watch back to its owners has changed her life. Debbie said: "We adored our grandparents and just being able to complete something that they'd set out to do, it means the absolute world to us." Do you have a similar story? Email 5 From his records, Debbie was able to find out that Arnold had a daughter named Janet Credit: ©The Royal Artillery Museum
