People within the agricultural industry have to be be "up with the play" in today's farming world, says former All Black Colin "Pine Tree" Meads, who spoke to a group of agricultural graduates at a ceremony in which was held Alexandra last night.
Mr Meads (72), who was an All Black between 1957 and 1971, captivated more than 40 Agriculture ITO (Industry Training Organisation) graduates from throughout Otago and Southland last night, as their guest speaker during the event which was held at the Alexandra District Club.
Mr Meads said farming was far more technical than ever before, and jobs were harder to come by, as was the chance to own a farm.
"Unless you have an education now you are going to miss the bus in the farming world. There are so many opportunities in farming and the big thing is to have ambition," he said.
The Agriawards dinner was organised to celebrate the achievements of trainees and employers involved in the industry's education programmes.
More than 70 certificates were presented.
