Top Paddock Spring 2017 | Page 7

challenging questions in reply however promoted great discussion and prompted further thought. Another part that I am very grateful was incorporated into our itinerary was the opportunity to visit commercial and pedigree operations in Scotland. It was very interesting to go on farm and compare the systems to what is done in New Zealand. Although there are extreme differences between production techniques, there were some learning’s that could be highly effective in NZ also. Similarly visiting the home of the Angus breed you could not ignore the amount of history involved in the tour. Given the nations age relative to New Zealand it was always going to be the case, however visiting Ballindaloch in the Spey whiskey region of Scotland which boasted the oldest herd in existence (est. 1860) was quite exceptional. Although the cattle have evolved and a modern UK type was on display, quality still oozed from a herd bull Ballindaloch Earl N397. NZ, Generation Angus and individual sponsors. Without support from the wider industry taking part in an event such as this would not have been possible however we are rich from the experience and look forward to sharing this in NZ. In closing, this competition was a great way to network with like- minded people all over the world. We all shared a passion for cattle and are driven to take the industry forward in our own right. The strength and quality of agricultural youth coming out of Future Beef NZ was reinforced by the first and second place on the world stage, where all of the team members are an ambassador of Future Beef or Turn over the page to see photo associated with the event in some highlights of the NZ teams competing at way. Finally a big thank you must be the World Angus forum! extended again to our sponsors, FMG, Merial Ancare, Allflex, Angus Generation Angus is the youth component of the NZ Angus Association. We provide and promote education, opportunities and exposure within the New Zealand beef industry. For more information, visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/generationangusNZ FUTURE BEEF NEW ZEALAND 5