Perfect excuse for a party

08-09-2010 | Terry Brosnahan

The Upper Manuherikia Young Farmers Club has found the perfect excuse for a party - its 75th Jubilee from November 26 to 28.

Jubilee spokeswoman Vanessa Hore says fun and agri-sport games are guaranteed, along with guest speaker Steve Wyn-Harris and plenty of hard-out socialising.

The 18-member Central Otago club has stood the test of time thanks to strong community support. It is one of the driving forces behind the annual Otago/Southland Young Farmers contest and runs a mix of agri-related training days plus community fundraisers.

Longstanding events include a slink skin run, raising $2000 each year for distribution to deserving local groups and projects; a prime lamb competition at the Central Otago A & P Show; and a Young Farmers section at the annual St Bathans Dog Trials.

Social excursions are equally important and two years ago included a trip to the Mystery Creek Field days.

"It's a social thing but it has also offered members a lot of opportunities," Hore says.

Upper Manuherikia is the third-longest running club in the country, surpassed only by Southland's Thornbury and Nightcaps clubs. Nationally, Young Farmers is on the rise with membership increasing from a low of 450 in 2004 to 1500.

National manager Sara Russell says interest in the organistion has surged since it moved out from under the umbrella of Federated Farmers. "We've averaged a 40% increase since then ... the number of clubs has increased and interest in activities and national competitions has skyrocketed."

She says there are 75 clubs and three of these - two high schools and one regional - started in the past six weeks. Indications are that new blood will continue filtering through with the launch two years ago of AgriKids NZ, an in-school programme for eight to 13-year-olds that has signed up 1000 recruits.

Former Upper Manuherikia YFC members can sign up for the November celebration weekend by contacting Vanessa or Ben Hore on (03) 447-3008 or benhore@xtra.co.nz

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