Northland 'townie' makes final at FMG Farmer of the Year

Daniel Bradbury, ready to represent the North.

Daniel Bradbury's first farming job was on a 1400-cow dairy farm on the West Coast. He was 18 and straight out of high school, and it was a major shock to the system.

The experience introduced him to two new loves, however — he met his partner, Denise Knop, and developed a passion for dairy farming. Now the young townie, born and bred in England, is preparing to represent the Northern Region at the FMG Young Farmer of the Year final.

The couple returned to the UK, where Daniel pursued a career as a farmer, but abundant opportunities in New Zealand's expanding dairy sector enticed them back in 2014. They settled in Northland, where Daniel got a herd manager's job on a 600-cow split-calving farm.

The great thing about winning the local title is a few people have approached me and offered to help me prepare [for the final], which is fantastic.

Daniel Bradbury, Northern Region contestant at FMG Young Farmer of the Year final

They have now just started their second season of contract milking 515 cows at Kawakawa, and hope to be 50:50 sharemilking within three years.

"We already own 30 Friesian-cross heifers, which will come into the herd this spring," Daniel said.

"Our aim is to continue investing in heifer replacements and to build our equity that way. It's definitely beneficial having our farm owner's support, otherwise we could never afford to buy a herd here."

And he had some advice for people planning their next career move.

"The first thing I tell people to do is identify their weaknesses and skill gaps," he said.

"Find an employer who can help you learn, grow and develop the skills you need, whether it be animal husbandry or stockmanship. You need to master those skills on the way up the ladder, otherwise they'll negatively affect your bottom line once you get to the top."

Meanwhile, he joined the Bay of Islands Young Farmers' Club to network and get off the farm.

"Taking part in the northern regional final of the FMG Young Farmer of the Year has helped us get our name out there," he added.

"It always helps if people have heard positive things about you before they meet you, whether it be a future employer or a banker.

"The great thing about winning the local title is a few people have approached me and offered to help me prepare [for the final], which is fantastic."