The 2019 Young Farmer of the Year competition is New Zealand's Ultimate Rural Challenge inspiring excellence, showcasing innovation and growing human capabilities.

The East Coast regional final, held on 13 April 2019, saw eight finalists tackle a series of gruelling modules at Pukemiro Station in Dannevirke. Joseph Watts, PGG Wrightson Technical Field Representative ‘fiercely-contested’ for the last remaining spot in the grand finale.

To take out this placing, Joseph competed in a series of tasks including operating a drone to spot a water leak, a butchery challenge, weighing and shearing sheep and artificial breeding.

The practical event was followed by a fast-paced agri-knowledge quiz hosted by Te Radar at the Dannevirke Town Hall.

“I’m pretty stoked, but I’m a bit nervous about the next couple of months. I don’t have long to prepare for the grand final in July,” Joseph said.

Joseph’s win netted him $12,000 worth of prizes, including a Honda XR150 and a WorkSafe leadership course in Wellington. Joseph also took home awards for being the most tech-savvy of the group, outstanding leadership skills and showcasing innovation.

Stay tuned to see Joseph compete in the grand final in Hawke’s Bay on 4-6 July 2019.