Business Rural North Summer 2021

| 43 RURAL PEOPLE » Smedley Station as they learn at Smedley Station Horses and dogs come into their own on the steeper country at Smedley Station. ing over. “It’s a big job, full of challenges, and I thoroughly enjoy it.” A big part of that enjoyment is mixing with the next generation of up-and-coming farmers and Rob says that as long as he and wife Jenn con- tinue to feel they are giving back and contributing to the future of the agricultural sector, then they will stay. “There is still a lot to be done on the farm with changes in technology and we do have plans with respect to fencing, sub-division, cropping and grass development. “And there is always repairs and maintenance on buildings.” Being just 10 years away from blowing 100 candles out on the story of Smedley Station is something Rob and the team are looking forward to. “This farm has made a significant contribution to the positive growth and future of the agriculture sector which, in all its forms, is the backbone of the New Zealand economy.” Cadets are selected at the end of August each year for intake the following year. Opportunities to visit Smedley Station and learn about the training programme are made available at open days where visitors can see and learn just what this special farm is all abou t. Servicing Hawke's Bay with locations in Waipukurau and Hastings 068588983 & 068783289 NG Ā PUTAHI CONTACT: Forbes Cameron - 06 329 4050 | Angus Cameron - 06 329 4711 cameronfamily@inspire.net.nz Ngaputahi are proud to support ADB WILLIAMS TRUST with proven performance sheep genetics. “Breeders of Genetically Superior Seedstock” Proud to provide C ttle and Shee genetics to Smedley Station “The training programme is over two years and we take in 13 cadets each year. In the first-year cadets are learning all the general farming skills, fencing, building, tractor work, machinery and workshop skills while in the second year the focus is on stock work.”