58 | Matakanui win big at Environment Awards Tracy and Andrew Paterson. Nicki Woodlock Environmental management, technology investment, and strong community involvement have helped Tracy and Andrew Paterson of Matakanui Station win the Regional Supreme Award at the Otago Ballance Farm Environment Awards, held in Mosgiel on April 9. Run by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, the awards celebrate excellence in sustainable farming and growing. “We were very surprised, we’re very lucky and privileged to win,” said Andrew Paterson. Andrew and Tracy took over the 8,700-hectare Matakanui Station from Andrew’s parents in 2014. Andrew serves as general manager, leading a team of six staff including a farm manager, shepherds, and drivers. Since taking over, the Paterson’s have invested significantly in irrigation, fencing, and pasture development, restoring wetlands and enhancing water quality monitoring. The station runs 24,500 Polwarth sheep, supplying Alliance Meats’ Silere lamb and fine wool for NZ Merino, used by brands such as Icebreaker. They also raise 1,000 Hereford cattle and manage a Polwarth stud. From six entrants and four finalists, Matakanui Station won six of ten categories and the Otago regional title, earning prizes from sponsors. Judges commended their use of technology in animal management, water use and feed planning. Visual soil assessments and herbage testing support both soil and animal health. Genetics and on-farm testing are used to address animal health and methane emissions, while cattle finishing adjustments show their drive for continual improvement. “I wasn’t sure what the Ballance Awards would be like. I think every farmer should be inspired and be involved in it and have a go,” said Paterson. Their environmental efforts include restoring 6.3 hectares of wetlands, with another 24 hectares set aside for protection. Working with a neighbour, they’ve also protected 132 hectares of alpine totara forest under a QEII Trust covenant - the largest of its kind in Central Otago. They’re also collaborating with PhD student Ben Teele, who is studying totara propagation for conservation. Staff wellbeing and safety are priorities, with Tracy Paterson leading the use of software-based communication and regular safety meetings. Recycling is emphasised both at home and on the farm. The Paterson’s focus on long-term resilience and self-sufficiency. Infrastructure projects include a gravity-fed irrigation system, a 37kW hydroelectric generator, and a 100kW solar array - initiatives that help reduce exposure to rising energy costs. MEAT & WOOL » Matakanui Station Their strategic planning is guided by external advice, and their integrated farm plan uses data to support decision-making. Long-term contracts provide financial stability and verify their environmental practices. They also contribute beyond their farm. On the committee of the Thomsons Catchment Project, Andrew has helped lead efforts to improve local water quality. Launched in 2022 by local farmers, the initiative has restored a 5-hectare wetland, installed a fish barrier to protect the native galaxiid species, and removed invasive trout and perch. Over 45km of riparian fencing has been installed, with plantings and sediment plans developed for each property in the catchment. The project operates under the Manuherekia Catchment Group - of which Andrew is Co-Chair, fostering collaboration between farmers and local councils. In presenting the Regional Supreme Award, judges noted the Paterson’s extensive industry and community involvement. “Tracy and Andrew generously share their knowledge and experience to support the broader agricultural sector.” Tracy and Andew received the following category awards: Based in the heart of rural Otago, Cen Eng is your trusted partner in engineering innovation. Specialising in developing innovative solutions we design and manufacture a wide range of products for the agricultural and energy industries right here in Omakau. Our technical services team also provides water metering, control and telemetry services on a farm level through to design and project management of large scale engineering projects in construction, infrastructure, energy and mining. Contact us to discover how our engineering solutions can support innovation in your operation. Cen Eng Limited 03 4473 757 www.ceneng.co.nz 66 Leask Street Omakau INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS SHEARING CAMERON 027 592 5824 scshear@outlook.com Servicing Central Otago and surronds Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil and Nutrient Management Award Bayleys People in Primary Sector Award Hill Labs Agri-Science Award Norwood Farming Efficiency Award Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award NZFET Innovation Award Tracy and Andrew will now be considered, alongside winners from ten other regions, for the Gordon Stephenson Trophy at the Trust’s National Showcase in Wellington in June. The trophy’s recipients become the 2025 National Ambassadors for Sustainable Farming and Growing.
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