Zanda McDonald Award finalists announced

The Zanda McDonald Award, a prestigious trans-Tasman accolade that celebrates and fosters excellence in agriculture, has announced the first batch of finalists for 2025.Three exceptional young professionals from Australia have now been selected, following interviews in Sydney on Monday. A total of six finalists will be chosen for this esteemed recognition, aimed at nurturing the next generation of leaders in the primary sector.

Three New Zealanders will be selected to join the Australian finalists next week.

The Australian finalists have been selected for their leadership, passion, and impactful contributions to the agricultural industry.

The Award is dedicated to inspiring and developing future leaders in agriculture by providing unparalleled growth opportunities, mentorship, and access to top-tier education.

The Australian finalists for 2025 are:

Will Creek (35), General Manager - Properties Livestock for vertically integrated beef and cattle company Stanbroke, Queensland.

Jack O’Connor (32), Manager of Oxton Park (family cropping, wool and prime lamb farm), based in Harden, Southern NSW.

Felicity Taylor (29), Area Manager at Rabobank, Moree, Country NSW.

Richard Rains, lead judge and award mentor, expressed his enthusiasm about the impressive pool of Australian talent.

“The interview process is always an exciting experience for us. It’s inspiring to see the passion and drive of the next generation of ag leaders. Selecting the finalists from a competitive group was a tough decision, but it was a privilege to learn more about their achievements and aspirations for the future. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the Zanda McDonald Award family,” Mr Rains said.

Finalists become part of the Award Alumni, gaining access to continuous mentoring, networking opportunities, and support.

The three New Zealand finalists will be announced next week, and all six finalists will attend the Awards’ annual Impact Summit on the Gold Coast in March 2025.

During the summit, one Australian and one New Zealand winner will be named at a celebratory evening with industry leaders and award partners.

The winners will receive an impressive personal development package, including a tailored mentoring trip to both Australia and New Zealand, $10,000 for further education or training, media coaching, and ongoing networking opportunities.