Get connected with Gisborne Young Farmers

Fundraiser for Gisborne Young Farmers with Daniel Wilson (left), Troy Hudepohl and Alexis Wallace, right.

Gisborne young farmers is a space for locals to connect with similar people, to improve self-development and to find opportunities within the community.

The club hosts events ranging from National Young Farmers competitions to club meetings on stress management.

As a part of the NZ Young Farmers (NZYF) the non-profit organisation has a strong focus on connecting communities and helping to grow future leaders.

With almost 80 clubs around New Zealand, NZYF provide a venue for young people to develop their leadership and personal skills.

People don’t need to be a farmer to join – all they need is a passion for the agriculture, food and fibre sectors.

It’s who you know

Chairperson of Gisborne Young Farmers Sandra Graham says because Gisborne is such a large area and is very sparse, it makes it tricky for people to reach out.

“In Gisborne, it’s who you know, and not what you know,” says Sandra.

“Gisborne Young Farmers is a good network if you’re needing help or just wanting to meet new people.

“A lot of people don’t know we exist. We aren’t a big group,” says Sandra.

The age requirement for joining Gisborne Young Farmers is 18, and the cut off is at 31 years old.

However, due to the small numbers, Sandra chooses to treat the club as more of a social group.

“The age limit it normally 31, but we let people stay on. If you’re over 18, your welcome to join.”

Reaching out

Gisborne has some of the highest suicide stats in the country, which is why Sandra is adamant that people get connected within the community.

“It’s a good support network if you’re needing some help,” says Sandra.

“Personally, if I think that someone is struggling I’ll just flick them a message and ask around to check that they’re okay.

“Come along and have a yarn and some tea and we’ll figure out a plan – whether that’s moving to a new house, training a dog, needing a new job or wanting to get into any activity such as rugby or clay bird shooting; we can all work together.”

Gisborne Young Farmers is on a mission to further include the community in what they do and bring in more members and businesses to support the establishment.

In June, the group invites anyone that is interested to attend a meeting with New Zealand Young Farmer’s CEO Lynda Coppersmith.

More details about this event will be posted on Gisborne Young Farmers Facebook page.


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