Name: Brad Lewis.
Region: Taranaki-Manawatu.
Age: 26.
Education: Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours).
Occupation: Managing a dairy farm at Levin.
Short-term goals and ambitions: Catch a 20-pound snapper.
Long-term goals and ambitions: Increase equity.
Hobbies and interests: Fishing, hunting and cricket.
What makes the Young Farmer Contest still relevant after more than 40 years?
The prestige of winning the contest and continuing the tradition of New Zealand's ultimate rural challenge in the most important business sector in New Zealand means that the contest is just as relevant now as it was 40 years ago.
Why should young people join Young Farmers?
Young Farmers is the best way to meet like-minded farmers and rural professionals in your area. Each month we run social and community events with our members. It also provides a good opportunity to get off the farm and socialise.
What do you believe are the biggest challenges facing the agricultural sector in New Zealand into the future?
The ever-increasing gap between the rural community and urban sector is becoming a challenge. The lack of knowledge and awareness in some of our urban communities is leading to misinformation and less understanding of rural issues. The larger population base in towns and cities means there is an increasing push for damaging legislation and limitations being put on farmers which increases compliance costs and reduces profitability.