Our Awards Celebrations

A formal dinner in Lawrence each May honours the awardees and their significant achievement of 100 or more years in farming.

It is a chance for recipients to meet each other and formally receive their distinctive bronze plaque and certificate to display on their property.  Families enjoy the special night where many stories of hardship, perseverance and success over 100+ years are shared.

Past Chairman Symon Howard says participants often comment on the professionalism and polish of the awards evening. “Sometimes I think people might be under the impression that because the location of the evening is in the deep south, they feel like it will be akin to a barbeque in a backyard. Then they arrive and are blown away by the effort and conduct of the evening.”

The local community are very supportive of the event with local clubs and businesses getting involved to ensure guests are made to feel welcome and enjoy their stay in Lawrence.

Previous guest speakers at the event have included Former Prime Ministers Helen Clark and Bill English, Nathan Guy and Shane Jones.

Foundation sponsor Farmlands Co-operative is passionate about the event and has been heavily involved in the organisation and practical support on the night.  

The support given from the sponsorship network contributes to a large part of the professionalism that is projected on the evening and the organisation is indebted to them for their work and enthusiasm for the awards.