| 45 Could not stay away from representing farmers The farm focuses on cereal crops including wheat, barley, brassicas and pulses across 600 hectares. Karen Phelps Chris Dillon thought he had stepped back from leadership duties with Federated Farmers when he finished as Southland provincial president in 2024 but it did not take long before the organisation called him back. Now Chair of the National Arable Executive, and temporarily back in the Southland provincial president role while a replacement is found, Chris says he could not stay away from helping represent farmers. “There are a few challenges coming up and I want to be part of the solution,” he says. The return to leadership comes at a busy time for the arable sector with growers facing increasing pressure. Fertiliser and fuel costs continue to challenge arable businesses throughout the country and processing plant closures are creating uncertainty including the closure in September of Malteurop’s Marton plant. Chris believes the future of arable farming requires a collective approach with industry and government working together to ensure New Zealand growers can compete fairly. “The cost of doing things in New Zealand is the issue,” says Chris. “It’s not just one thing that will fix the arable industry. We’re working with the industry trying to get as level a playing field as possible for New Zealand growers.” While arable farming represents a smaller part of New Zealand agriculture compared with some other sectors, Chris says its contribution is significant, particularly through supplying seed that grows feed and supports pasture renewal. “We also grow a lot of seeds for the export market but the domestic market is equally important with specific seed crops grown for that as well.” The New Zealand Grown Grain logo, led by the Foundation for Arable Research and launched earlier this year, is one initiative aimed at highlighting the value of locally produced grain. Chris says consumers increasingly want to understand where their food comes from and how it is produced and that supporting local grain production also has wider benefits in terms of food security. Alongside his industry roles, Chris and wife Rochelle continue to operate their diversified 860-hectare farming business at Balfour, where they have recently reassessed their system to create a more manageable operation and improved work-life balance. The farm focuses on cereal crops including wheat, barley, brassicas and pulses across 600 hectares and the couple has simplified the livestock side of the business, moving away from deer and focusing on raising lambs and fattening beef. “This has given diversity to our business so we spread our risk and use the land in the way it is best suited.” RURAL PEOPLE » Chris Dillon With one full-time employee and additional seasonal staff during harvest, the farm continues to rely on strong teamwork, with Rochelle managing the financial side of the business and supporting in other ways when needed. Now balancing farming with national and provincial advocacy, Chris is focused on ensuring growers have a strong voice as the sector works through its challenges. “We are all working together to come up with solutions as we don’t want the industry to lose critical mass because it’s not profitable.” Switzers Valley Transport Ltd Locally owned, locally operated and locally trusted to meet all your cartage and sowing needs. 29 Main Wendonside RD, RD7 GORE 7777 phone 03 202 4000 JOCK SHARP 0274193096 stock@svt.co.nz MURRAY MASLIN 027433043 accounts@svt.co.nz JAMIE COOTE 0272266009 fert@svt.co.nz Proud to support CHRIS DILLON 0800 SGTDAN (748326) Gorton Street, GORE Ph: 208 3965 E: admin@sgtdan.co.nz
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