National Fencing Field Day delivers clear skies and cracking connections

What a cracker of a day we had – you couldn’t have asked for better weather. Sunshine, clear skies, and just a bit crispy underfoot, first thing. The weather’s the one thing we can’t control, but this year it was on our side.

The day got underway at 9am with the Secondary Schools Fencing Challenge right in the middle of the event area. We had around 50 students from schools all over New Zealand in attendance – some were there to compete, others to soak up as much knowledge as they could from the experts. Owen Petersen and Shane Bouskill were on hand, sharing their competition expertise, along with Level 3 Tutor Greg Burton, who generously passed on his knowledge and experience. The input from these industry greats gave the students a day they’ll remember for a long time. Teachers and parents also had the chance to learn about the FCANZ Career Pathway and NorthTec National Certificates – clear next steps for students who want to build a career in fencing and the wider industry.

Industry partners were spread throughout the site, running demonstrations and displays across the day. This gave members plenty of opportunities to see new kit in action, chat directly with suppliers and network with industry supporters. These National Fencing Field Days and Best Practice Days really are vital – they create space for members, non-members, and partners to connect, share information, and showcase innovation.

The Banger Challenge was definitely a highlight, with Revolution, Fencepro, and Kinghitter going head-to-head. It’s not often you get to see three post drivers in action side by side. Huge thanks to Piako for supplying a tractor, and to Richard and Aaron for providing another from the farm.

When the machines fired up, they grabbed everyone’s attention, and it was a real drawcard on the day. Having the chance to compare machinery in action and chat directly with the people behind them is invaluable for members considering their options.

Another crowd favourite was the Milwaukee Toolbox Competition, back again this year. Congratulations to David Swansson, winner of the Members’ section, and to Fergus Tarrant, who won the Non-Members’ section – and has since signed up as a General Member. Welcome to the Association, Fergus! It was great to see a handful of other new members joining on the day, as well as a few past members returning – a positive sign for the future of the industry.

Farmlands and Waratah both put on fun and engaging challenges at their stands, testing members’ knowledge and skills – with plenty of puzzled looks and laughs along the way. Add in our usual site games, like stride measurement and hammer throw, and there was no shortage of entertainment. Let’s be honest: hammers get thrown on the fenceline when things aren’t going to plan, but in competition mode the technique looks a little different!

Overall, it was a fantastic day with a great turnout, positive energy, and valuable connections made. Events like these always give us something to learn and improve on, but the feedback so far has been really encouraging. The students, in particular, asked some great questions – one of the best being: “How much weight can a fence hold if a cow falls on it?” That one had the fencers scratching their heads for a moment!

A huge thank you to Richard Lamb, Farm Manager, for hosting us on the property, and to his 2IC, Aaron, who was a massive help with preparation and set-up in the lead-up to the event. Thanks also to Debbie Robertson (Rural Safe) and Neil Robertson (Fensin) for lending their time and energy with site set-up – much appreciated.

Thanks again to everyone who contributed and took part. These days wouldn’t happen without the support of our hosts, partners, and members. If there’s anything you’d like to see more (or less) of at future events, please share your feedback – it all helps us to make the next one even better.

Written by Donna Upton