Another dairy farmer is edging closer to national honours after claiming the Otago Southland FMG Young Farmer of the Year title.
Thomas Slee, 28, from Nightcaps, was named the regional winner on Saturday night following a demanding day of competition at the Gore A&P Showgrounds. Eight finalists faced a full programme of challenges designed to test practical ability, technical knowledge, and mental sharpness under pressure.
“It’s pretty surreal,” Slee said.
“I guess the prep starts now for Grand Final.”
The FMG Young Farmer of the Year remains one of the most respected events on the rural calendar. The competition continues to highlight emerging leaders in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector, encouraging excellence while celebrating innovation and resilience across farming communities.
The regional event included three age-based categories. Primary school students competed in AgriKids NZ, secondary school pupils took part in the FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year, and young adults vied for the main Young Farmer of the Year crown.
Slee secured victory with a total of 271 points, ahead of Henry Smith from Clinton on 258 points and Harry McCallum from Te Anau on 234. The competition included five challenges, among them Agri-Sports and a fast-paced buzzer quiz that rewarded quick thinking and accuracy.
Each task was designed to measure how effectively contestants could apply their skills while racing against the clock. Slee was consistent throughout the day, focusing on accuracy and efficiency across all modules, including the physically demanding Agri-Sports section.
One head-to-head challenge required finalists to build a possum trap after briefly viewing a completed example. The task tested observation, memory, and construction skills, adding further pressure to an already intense final.
Hundreds of spectators attended the event, with many also exploring the wider Gore A&P Showgrounds throughout the day. Support from family, friends, and local Young Farmers clubs created a strong community atmosphere.
In the AgriKids NZ competition, young teams demonstrated impressive knowledge across multiple modules before racing for final placings. Northern Southland College claimed first place, followed by Limehills Young Farmers and Drummond Duck Shooters.
The FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year title for Otago Southland was won by Lara Heiss and Emily Reid from Blue Mountain College, with Jack Horrel and Hunter Norman from Southland Boys’ High School finishing second.
Slee, along with the top AgriKids NZ and Junior teams, will now represent Otago Southland at the national grand final in July in New Plymouth.
New Zealand Young Farmers chief executive Cheyne Gillooly praised the turnout and community spirit.
“From the youngest contestant just beginning, to the oldest who is giving it their last shot, the strength in which people show up for their community makes me so proud of what Young Farmers represents.”