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BBC News
5 days ago
- General
- BBC News
All you need to know about the Royal Manx Agricultural Show
The largest event in the Manx farming calendar is set to see thousands of people flock to the west of the Isle of Royal Manx Agricultural Show is one of two annual showcases of the industry on the island designed to draw in people from across the secretary Carol Kennaugh said the show was "extremely important" in providing an opportunity for farmers to get together as well as showing people not directly involved what the local sector has to offer. When and where? The two-day event, which attracts about 20,000 visitors each year, takes place at Knockaloe in Patrick on Friday and gates open at 09:30 BST on both days, with the show field closing at 17:00. What will be on show? Friday sees a full light horse programme taking place on the show field as well as dog agility and obedience field then plays host to the main livestock competitions on Saturday, with classes for dairy cattle, calves, beef cattle, heavy horses, sheep, donkeys and meg lambs, as well as a fur and feather classes culminate in the Grand Parade at 16:00, where the 2025 Supreme Champion will be crowned by this year's by this year's show president Voirrey Kelly, the identity of the person selected for the coveted role remains a closely guarded secret until the judging throughout the show include sheep shearing contests, vintage tractor and machinery parades, a Young Farmers' tug-of-war, and produce competitions. Ms Kennaugh said the educational side of the show remained "very important to us"."We encourage as much as we can for people to come, see, talk to the exhibitors, and ask questions," she part of that ethos, the Manx National Farmers Union tent offers the opportunity to find out more about the different breeds of livestock on the includes being able to see the animals up close in special display pens on both produce is also brought to the fore in the Manx food producers' marquee in conjunction with the Department of Environment, Food and included small traders where "everything's locally sourced - or as much as it can be - made locally and then sold", Ms Kennaugh said."It's amazing what is available but we do need to make people aware of it.""The food mileage is very, very low, and it is on all Manx produce. I mean where can you buy a pint of milk where the furthest it's travelled is probably 15 miles?" However, she said providing entertainment in various of guises remained a vital part of the programme."We can't just concentrate on the agricultural side, it is a family day out, it is a community event."So we have to have events, entertainment, and stand holders that appeal to everybody who lives on the island and indeed visitors that are over as well."And that includes performances by equine stunt group Outlaws and Spike Milton and the International Timber bandstand will also showcase a number of live musical performances throughout the day on Saturday, alongside a range of trade stands. Transport and parking? All parking is free at Knockaloe, with trailer rides provided from each of the car parks to take visitors to the show field and back again to help them return to their coming from the Douglas direction will be directed from St John's along Patrick Road to the Patrick junction before being filtered into the car approaching from the south will be directed down over the Round Table through Dalby and Glen Maye and again guided into the car people are asked not approach from the Peel to Patrick coast road, as Ms Kennaugh explained: "We try to discourage any traffic through Peel, we would prefer everyone comes in the designated routes, which fit in with our traffic management plan." Buses are also available from St John's to are available online in advance, or can be bought on the gate on both days. Are dogs allowed? Dogs are allowed on both days as long as they are kept under control and on a lead."Preferably a non-extending lead, to be on a static lead is ideal," Ms Kennaugh said. Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.
Scoop
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Hugh Jackson Crowned 2025 FMG Young Farmer Of The Year
Press Release – FMG Young Farmer New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly said Jackson impressed everyone with his innovative thinking and shining talent across the agricultural sector. Waikato Bay of Plenty Young Farmer Hugh Jackson is 'over the moon' after securing the title of New Zealand's top young farmer. 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.'
Scoop
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Hugh Jackson Crowned 2025 FMG Young Farmer Of The Year
Press Release – FMG Young Farmer New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly said Jackson impressed everyone with his innovative thinking and shining talent across the agricultural sector. Waikato Bay of Plenty Young Farmer Hugh Jackson is 'over the moon' after securing the title of New Zealand's top young farmer. 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.'
Scoop
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Hugh Jackson Crowned 2025 FMG Young Farmer Of The Year
Waikato Bay of Plenty Young Farmer Hugh Jackson is 'over the moon' after securing the title of New Zealand's top young farmer. 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.'
Otago Daily Times
29-06-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Roy honoured for contribution
Eric Roy. Photo: supplied Southland farmer and New Zealand Pork chairman Eric Roy was recognised with the outstanding contribution to primary industries award last week. Mr Roy was presented the prize at the 2025 Primary Industries New Zealand Awards in Christchurch. Comments from a judging panel said Mr Roy's production, leadership, advocacy and political service to primary industries and rural communities in New Zealand and the wider Pacific spanned nearly 60 years. His work for Young Farmers culminated in his election as world president, and the six-term MP has also excelled in roles with Federated Farmers, Pāmu, the Meat & Wool Board and a host of community and charity initiatives. "Few can match his contribution — Eric Roy is a truly exceptional New Zealander." NZ Pork deputy chairman Jason Palmer said Mr Roy had been chairman of NZ Pork since 2019. "Eric's decades of service to farming, rural communities and public life reflect a commitment to doing the right thing for farmers, the primary sector and the country. "He's provided invaluable leadership to NZ Pork during his time on our board, helping shape the future of sustainable pig farming in New Zealand."
