Biosecurity skills shown by Young Grower contestants

KVH was thrilled to present a biosecurity competition module as part of the National Young Grower of the Year finals at Pukekohe last week.

Biosecurity knowledge has been tested in the local Bay of Plenty competition for many years and was included for the first time at the Otago and Tasman regional competitions this year, and for a second year in Gisborne.

Competitors were tested on their general knowledge of our national biosecurity system, industry roles in the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) space to ensure readiness, and the importance of day-to-day biosecurity practices on-orchard and on-farm.

Contestants showed a great understanding of how to protect their property boundaries, and the practical steps to make a great biosecurity plan. “Catch it, snap it, report it” was the catch phrase for anything unusual, ensuring we have the best chance at spotting our next threat early.

Winners of the regional fruit and vegetable grower competitions battled it out across seven modules for the grand title of National Young Grower of the Year, with Taylor Leabourn from Pukekohe winning in his hometown.