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Dairy Industry Awards Open for Nominations

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  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 20:40 GMT
      Locale: NEW ZEALAND

Auckland, New Zealand - Monday, January 19th, 2026 - The dairy industry is poised to celebrate its brightest talents as entries for the annual ASB Alumni and First Farm Awards officially opened this week. Sponsored by ASB, these prestigious awards acknowledge the outstanding contributions of both experienced professionals and emerging leaders within New Zealand's vital dairy sector. The application window remains open until February 28th, 2026, providing ample opportunity for deserving candidates to be nominated.

The awards program, a cornerstone of industry recognition, comprises two distinct categories: the ASB Alumni Award and the ASB First Farm Award. The Alumni Award shines a spotlight on individuals who have achieved significant career milestones following their graduation from the renowned Fonterra Dairy Training School. This reflects the school's enduring legacy in shaping dairy industry leaders. It aims to showcase the transformative power of training and the diverse paths successful graduates have forged within the sector. The award isn't merely about professional achievement, but also the impact these alumni have made on their communities and the wider dairy landscape.

The First Farm Award, on the other hand, recognizes the rising stars of the industry - young farmers demonstrating exceptional potential and commitment. This category is vital for fostering the next generation of dairy leaders and acknowledging their innovative approaches to farming, sustainability, and overall business management. Nominations for the First Farm Award will be judged not only on current performance but also on future aspirations and the ability to adapt to the evolving challenges facing the dairy industry, such as climate change and shifting consumer preferences.

"These awards represent more than just recognition; they're a vital platform to celebrate the dedication and innovation driving our dairy industry forward," stated Connie Craig, Head of People and Culture at Fonterra, in a press release announcing the awards' launch. "The Alumni Award beautifully illustrates the incredible professional journeys of our training school graduates, while the First Farm Award spotlights the incredible passion and drive of the future generation of dairy farmers."

The dairy sector plays a crucial role in New Zealand's economy and cultural identity. These awards serve as an important reminder of the talent and expertise that underpin this vital industry. The increasing focus on sustainability and ethical practices within the dairy sector means young farmers, particularly those recognized through the First Farm Award, will be critical in shaping the industry's future. The ability to adopt innovative farming techniques, reduce environmental impact, and maintain animal welfare standards will be key criteria for consideration.

Applications for both awards are open to New Zealand residents. To learn more about the eligibility criteria, nomination process, and access the application forms, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the dedicated awards page on the Dairy Trust website: [ https://dairytrainng.co.nz/awards/ ]. The Dairy Trust website provides comprehensive details regarding the judging panel, the selection process, and previous winners, offering valuable insight for potential applicants. The awards are a great opportunity to gain industry recognition and boost professional profiles.

This year's awards are expected to be even more competitive than previous years, reflecting the overall resurgence and innovation within the New Zealand dairy industry. The continued sponsorship by ASB underscores the bank's commitment to supporting the sector and investing in its future workforce. The deadline of February 28th, 2026, is fast approaching, so early submission is strongly advised to ensure consideration.