| 67 Capped off a great first two years While Matt is happy with the current size of the business, he says there is room for further growth if the right opportunity comes along. Kelly Deeks Winning the 2026 Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award has capped off a remarkable first two years in business for North Otago contractor Matt Campbell, whose Campbell Spreading operation continues to grow on the back of strong customer relationships, industry best practice, and a willingness to invest in the future. The 27-year-old received the honour at the 2026 Groundspread NZ Awards, recognising his passion for the groundspread industry, leadership potential, and commitment to developing both people and the sector. Matt established Campbell Spreading after being given the opportunity to purchase the bulk spreader he had operated while working for respected Oamaru contractor Scott Simpson for more than a decade. “I still do all of Scott’s work, and he’s been fantastic. He’s helped quite a few young people get started in business.” The company has expanded quickly, now operating two trucks and employing a full-time driver alongside Matt. While Matt is happy with the current size of the business, he says there is room for further growth if the right opportunity comes along. “I’d be happy to put another truck on the road and train someone else into the industry. That’s something I’d really like to do.” Campbell Spreading services dairy, sheep and beef, and cropping properties across North Otago, with Matt saying the diversity of farms and land types make the region an enjoyable place to work. “But more than anything it’s the great people we work for. They’re friendly, passionate about their businesses, and we’ve built really good relationships with them.” As environmental expectations continue to increase, Matt says accurate fertiliser placement has become one of the biggest priorities for customers. “We’re always testing our trucks to make sure the spread pattern is right. Customers want proof of placement, so staying on top of Spreadmark testing is really important.” While business ownership has brought new opportunities, it has also come with greater responsibility. “The biggest change is I’m not just worrying about myself anymore. I have to make sure someone else has enough work to do as well.” His employee works a four-day week to allow more time with family, while his partner Hope Wilson manages the administration alongside her own full-time industry-related role. “I’m very lucky to have Hope. She enjoys the office side of things, and that lets me concentrate on spreading.” The Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award recognises operators under 35 who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a positive contribution to the industry. Judges praised Matt’s people-first approach, his commitment to driver training, and his active involvement with Groundspread NZ, where he encourages greater member participation and supports opportunities for young people entering the industry. While being honoured by the recognition, Matt says the award reflects the support he has received from those around him. “I owe a huge thank you to my dad and his partner, Kelly and Morgan Campbell, who backed me from day one, Scott Simpson and Lisa Dorsey for believing in me, and Hope for everything she does. I’ve got a great network behind me, and if I can keep developing young people and building the industry, then that’s something worth being proud of.” Call us on 021 082 98109 Need advice on navigation, spreader options & computer guidance? Proud to support Campbell Spreading Ltd. Proud to support Campbell Spreading Ltd. “I’d be happy to put another truck on the road and train someone else into the industry. That’s something I’d really like to do.” RURAL SERVICES » Campbell Spreading Ltd lonestarfarms.co.nz Empowering people to lead agricultural innovation and excellence in partnership for global impact
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