Hilary Phillips National President NZ Young Farmers (Inc)

Born and raised on a sheep, beef and cropping farm in Tapawera, Nelson Bays. Currently reside in Canterbury. Currently serving second term as National President and in fifth year on NZ Young Farmers Board.

First exposed to NZ Young Farmers in my last year at secondary school. Became more extensively involved upon moving to Canterbury and realising that I missed the rural network and community feeling that I was used to in Tapawera. I saw NZ Young Farmers as a way to be involved in my local community, at the same time as a way to develop my skills. I soon found myself offered leadership roles, which included roles from club chair, district chair, regional and national committee for The National Bank Young Farmer Contest, organising committee for National Conference through to my present role as National President and The National Bank Young Farmer Contest Board member. I was also fortunate enough to be selected on the 2002 UK exchange which was a fabulous learning experience.

The NZ Young Farmers motto is "meeting the needs of rural youth", essentially providing personal development for members, as well as a social network. Opportunities are endless, with heavily sponsored national competitions such as The National Bank Young Farmer Contest, stockjudging, international exchanges, as well as the opportunities that exist at club level.

You are almost guaranteed to come away from your time in NZ Young Farmers with lifelong friends from throughout NZ, as well as an increased confidence and skill development.

Aside from my involvement with NZ Young Farmers I am also involved with country netball, as Secretary and Treasurer for the Malvern Netball Centre, as well as being a representative umpire.

www.youngfarmers.co.nz