| 93 RURAL SERVICES » Leeston Seeds Seed dressing and processing done right There’s a lot of compliance from agencies such as MPI that merchants dressing seed are required to adhere to. Leeston is located between the shore of Lake Ellesmere and the Rakaia River and has historically been a strong cropping and seed growing region. Sue Russell Located at Leeston, some 42km south of Christchurch, Leeston Seeds is a well- established seed dressing and processing business. It’s Manager, Kevin Kennett says the company doesn’t trade in seed to the retail sector, concentrating instead of trading to other businesses trading seed in the market. “We’re just focussed on dressing, treating and distribution of seed for our customers. Seeds such as ryegrasses, wheat, barley and a small volume of clover, as well as quite a bit of Asian brassica and a substantial volume of peas. That’s enough to keep our seed cleaning, storage and packing plant busy.” The processing site has five dressing machines. One is used for pea and cereals, two for grass, one for brassica and the other for clover processing. Along with this is a treating machine. Processing occurs throughout the year, though this year Kevin has noticed the volumes being put through have dropped somewhat. He puts this down to a surplus of seed still out in market. Leeston Seeds is the largest seed processing facility in the district. “We have another 2 plants just down the road, one which specialises in clover seed”. There’s a lot of compliance from agencies such as MPI that merchants dressing seed are required to adhere to. “We’re governed by very strict rules from MPI and Asure Quality. Each year we go through a very thorough audit process, where seeds are inspected, batches matched to documentation and the gear we use checked over.” It’s important, Kevin says, that machinery is thoroughly cleaned down between processing batches of seed, to avoid any cross contamination. Along with Kevin, there are seven others working the plant and a dedicated administration person. “One of my main responsibilities is to ensure we’re compliant at all times and to just help when and where it’s needed.” Asked whether there’s interest from younger people working in the sector, Kevin says, it seems to be lacking, which is a concern given the aging population of those in the industry. “There’s quite a bit of physical handling involved, and I think this is an aspect that doesn’t appeal to a lot of people but longer term we’re going to need new blood working here.” Most of the plant has been reliably processing seed for many years, with the latest machine purchased four years ago. John Kewish, who has retired to Ashburton, is one of three Directors. “I was managing this plant for Challenge Seeds, and they were in the process of selling all their grain stores throughout New Zealand, so we decided to purchase the facility. This was in the late 1980’s,” says John. 10 JB Cullen Drive, Ashburton Smith Seeds are proud to support Leeston Seeds. Steve 0272415973 Jo 027 336 3932 Wayne 0272474999 Brad 027 900 0410 Leeston is located between the shore of Lake Ellesmere and the Rakaia River and has historically been a strong cropping and seed growing region. John says one of the key reasons why Leeston Seeds has enjoyed the long history it has, is the loyalty of its customers. “I think its fair to say that all us Directors are getting on in years and we’ll be hoping some younger energy comes into the business to eventually take over the helm. It would be a good business for a young person who loves machinery.” jayamy.stringershearingltd@gmail.com Ranfurly Otago For AQuality, Prompt and E cient Shearing & Crutching Service, Woolpress &VanHire + Accommodation and Laundromat Facilities Call JayOn027 444 9158
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