ANZCO Foods CEO Update - June 2025

It was a privilege to be part of ANZCO’s Finding the Balance conferences in Christchurch and Napier at the end of May. These are the third ANZCO-run conferences targeted at women in the agriculture industry, and I was pleased to be able to present on ANZCO Foods and our value-add initiatives.

Both events brought together an inspiring group from across the agricultural sector, and it was clear from the energy in the rooms just how valuable these opportunities for connection and reflection are.

Feedback has been extremely positive with many attendees appreciating the opportunity to take time off-farm, network with peers, gain inspiration, expand their knowledge, and be treated to a nice venue, great food, and hilarious entertainment.

Besides seeing our attendees connect with each other and learn, a real highlight for me was the success of the fundraiser for Rural Support Trust. Christchurch raised $1,715 through a raffle and sales of woollen beanies, and Napier just pipped them with a total of $1,740 raised, making a grand total of $3,455. Thanks to the generous individuals and organisations that donated items for the raffle, and to everyone who bought tickets – it’s great to be able to support the Rural Support Trust to continue their essential work.

We’re also pleased to have launched our Onside app recently. We know health and safety has a compliance aspect to it, but for us, this is our way of doing what we can to ensure people are kept safe – and that’s what driving us. There’s more information later in this update.

Have a great Matariki weekend – keep safe.