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In this episode, Sarah Perriam-Lampp speaks with two professors with expertise in gene editing about New Zealand’s proposed gene editing legislation. Professor Jack Heinemann discusses why the concerns about the details of the Gene Technology Bill are crucial for the likes of Fonterra. He highlighted risks around traceability and the increased level of compliance for farmers and the potential limitations of trade access.
Professor David Williams, with his expertise in gene editing, warns of potential unintended consequences and GMO contamination, advocating for a robust regulatory framework to safeguard farmers and the environment. Together, they explore the need for careful oversight in the evolving field of gene editing at the Bill works through the submission process.

In this episode, as part of the Country-Wide Beef Country series, host Jo Scott speaks to Tim Brittain from Storth Oaks Angus ahead of their annual bull sale. Storth Oaks has grown into a progressive Angus stud breeder with a strong focus on performance-driven cattle and forward-thinking genetic decisions.

Tim shares how Storth Oaks integrates tools such as whole herd DNA testing and the latest estimated breeding values (EBVs), including mature cow traits, to deliver bulls that balance maternal functionality with carcase merit.

In this episode of the Country-Wide Autumn Special Report: Pathways to Farm Ownership, Sarah Perriam-Lampp speaks with Sarah Barr from Rural Coach and Brent Irving from PGG Wrightson. Sarah Barr discusses how aligning values, building trust, and planning for the unexpected can create strong, long-lasting farming partnerships.

Brent, drawing on his rural banking and real estate background, shares insights on how equity partnerships and lease-to-buy models are helping young farmers onto the ownership ladder. He emphasises the importance of collaboration, long-term thinking, and management skills over upfront capital, encouraging aspiring farm owners to seek help early.

In this episode, as part of the Country-Wide Beef Country series, we hear from Leefield Station Farm Manager, Greg Crombie. As one of the oldest stations in Marlborough’s Waihopai Valley region, Leefield has undergone a remarkable transformation under the management of Greg.

He shares how the integration of viticulture and livestock on steep, challenging terrain has shaped both the development of the station and its Angus cattle breeding programme. From implementing one of the country’s largest solar-powered water systems to significantly increasing stock units on hill country, Greg discusses the infrastructure and genetic strategies that underpin Leefield’s success today.

In this episode, as part of our Country-Wide Autumn Special Report: Pathways to Farm Ownership, we explore the journey of establishing a successful equity partnership at Inveray, a historic family sheep and beef farm in Mount Somers, Canterbury. John Chapman and Bert Oliver share how they transitioned from a traditional ownership model to a collaborative business structure, underpinned by trust, aligned values, and a shared long-term vision.

In this episode, we explore the current state of the livestock market in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on rising prices, global demand, and the challenges facing the beef industry. Experts Simon Quilty and Dr Jim Gibbs share insights on the factors shaping the market, from climate variability and feed efficiency to sustainability and trade agreements. We discuss how producers can navigate these complexities, adapt to shifting market conditions, and leverage innovation to ensure long-term success in an increasingly competitive global industry.

A South Taranaki property finishes thousands of prime cattle annually on challenging sandy soils with a great balance of technology and stockmanship. Words Tony Leggett, Photos Brad Hanson.

Beef + Lamb New Zealand has rolled out three New Zealand-specific indexes to help bull buyers make more informed decisions in time for buying bulls this season. Words Sandra Taylor.

International Genetic Solutions aims to serve the beef industry by providing resources for genetic improvement using the best technology available and unprecedented collaboration. Words Jackie Aitken, International Genetic Solutions.

Shared data and collaboration among breeders are helping to expand the mix of traits measured for estimated breeding values. Words Dave Warburton.