| 39 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Nui Fresians Exciting and a huge confidence boost Richard Loader A decision to swap lecture rooms for gumboots is earning Claire Swindells accolades within the dairy sector. The 20-year-old, who works as a farm assistant at Nui Friesians, recently placed third in the 2025 Central Plateau Dairy Trainee of the Year competition, a milestone she describes as both exciting and a huge confidence boost. She admits the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards achievement was “huge” and was something to add to her CV. “I’m definitely keen to re-enter next year to see if I can get an even better result!” Claire’s introduction to dairy farming came after a brief stint at Victoria University of Wellington, where she started a commerce degree, majoring in economics straight out of Year 12 at Pukekohe High School. But after one semester, she realised office life was not for her. A move to Taupo with her parents soon led to a relief milking job at Pamu’s Pinta Dairy Unit, a life she was more than happy to embrace. “I was applying for lots of jobs at the time and didn’t see myself being a farmer, [I] just fell into it and loved it.” Following a season at Pinta, Claire moved on to Nui Friesians, Robin Broderson’s 151 hectare, 350-cow property in Reporoa, which is also a split calving farm. The role has cemented her love for the industry and everything it offers. “I love working with animals, animal welfare is the part of dairy farming I’m most passionate about,” she said. “One of my favourite parts of farming is when you notice a cow isn’t doing well, for whatever reason, draft her out and treat her, and then watch her coming right. I also love when you lock away the cows at the end of the day and watch them having a feed and settling down for the night.” Claire, who grew up in South Auckland, admits to being a “complete towny” when she entered the industry. She said it meant learning a lot on the job, including how to handle stock and operate various vehicles. Claire said the variety of work at Nui Friesians has allowed her to grow in confidence and capability. “I have a lot more experience now after working for Robin, [her boss] and Reece and Alex Pearce [contract milkers], and feel closer to being able to step up from dairy assistant to a higher role like 2IC.” She credits much of that progress to the support around her, from her current team to those who helped her get started, and support from Primary ITO. Claire also values being part of Reporoa Young Farmers, along with the encouragement she’s had from friends and family. Following a season at Pinta, Claire moved on to Nui Friesians, Robin Broderson’s 151 hectare, 350-cow property. She also appreciates the strong team culture on the farm. Looking ahead, Claire is keen to build on her experience and venture into a leadership role. “I’d love to manage or sharemilk eventually. I really enjoy milking, maintaining the property, and working with animals, so that’s the kind of role I see myself in long-term,” she said. Claire encourages anyone considering a career in dairy farming to “go for it”. “It’s a lot of fun and a great lifestyle. Don’t let inexperience stop you because I couldn’t have been less experienced when I started.” Agricultural Engineering Specialists Manufacturing - Repairs - Servicing - Parts & more. 07 333 8170 | 220 REPOROA RD, REPOROA facebook.com/reptecreporoa instagram.com/reptecltd/ www.reptec.co.nz Partner with BFA and let out expert agri advisory team help you achieve awardwinning results in your farming business. CONGRATULATIONS TO ANNETTE & ROBIN BRODERSON NUI FRIESIANS LTD 07 377 6380 | info@bfa.co.nz | www.bfa.co.nz
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