Craig Roberston, recipient of the HFNZ scholarship, comes full circle with dream as South Island field officer
In 2014, Craig Robertson was awarded the inaugural Holstein Friesian New Zealand (HFNZ) scholarship to provide aid for his study towards a dairy career.
Two years later, he is beginning that career at the same organisation. Craig was the ideal candidate for the role of South Island field officer within the not-for-profit organisation, as he has spent many years involved with HFNZ’s youth arm, Black & White Youth, and displaying a passion and working knowledge of the dairy industry.
“Craig has stood out since becoming a member of HFNZ,” says Cherilyn Watson, HFNZ general manager and World Holstein Friesian Federation council member.
“Being the first recipient of our scholarship, participating in youth camps, exchanges, and in championships, as well as winning HFNZ awards, Craig’s progression to becoming a part of the HFNZ staff was natural. We are very excited to have Craig on-board, and we are looking forward to seeing him develop further within HFNZ.”
Craig says the job is like a dream come true. “I’m excited to get out and work with some of the most progressive farmers in the country,” he says.
“I’m also looking forward to coordinating and encouraging youth, providing new and interesting initiatives to encourage membership and involvement.
“I’ve always known I wanted to work in the dairy industry. I worked throughout primary and secondary school on the farm, relief milking, and calving. When I was 17, a medical diagnosis cut short my on-farm career, and I had to start looking at alternative options in the industry.
“I remember filling out the HFNZ Scholarship application and it asked how my intended study would relate back to Holstein Friesian New Zealand.
“I expressed my desire to one day become a field officer for HFNZ and be able to work with and benefit farmers across the country.
“I see this position as an excellent opportunity in which to work with, be supported by and help like-minded people who love Holstein Friesians.”