10 | Presbyterian Support East Coast is the sole shareholder in Arohiwi Station, a 1472ha sheep and beef property near Napier. RURAL PEOPLE » Arohiwi Station “We’re reducing drenching of ewes and this year we just drenched 40% of the ewes.” Romney Rams are purchased from Turner Romneys just next door while terminal sires are supplied by Ben Dawson of Waihou Stud, 10 minutes down the road. All the progeny from the Angus cows are carried through. In early November, Arohiwi Station Ltd held its Annual General Meeting and this involved people connected with PSEC making a farm visit, something Robbie says he really enjoyed “They have such a keen interest in what we’re doing and they like to get involved in activities as opportunities present. As we tour the farm we discuss speci c topics so they come away with a really good picture as to what is happening and what is planned.” A number of developments continue on-going on the substantial block of land. Robbie hopes to get the Station’s environmental plan completed and he’s established some small but signi cant goals around stock management and health. “We’re reducing drenching of ewes and this year we just drenched 40% of the ewes.. Our aim is to get to the place where we are not drenching any ewes and we want to try to produce a sheep that can produce lambs to 70% of its own body weight.” Working with Robbie is senior shepherd, Benny Cross and shepherd, Hugh Banks who started at Arohiwi Station in May this year. And while there’s been plenty of rain Robbie says some positives can still be taken out of this situation. “We’re growing a lot of grass.” Arohiwi Station is paying for Benny and Hugh to complete their Diploma in Ag through Primary ITO, commencing at Level 4. Providing the team with opportunities to grow their own farming careers is important to Robbie and to PSEC. 1pm, Tuesday 23rd May 2023 On-farm auction in conjunction with BIDR Eighth Annual Sale • from page 9
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