The energy was positive and purposeful, and it was encouraging to see so many young people curious about rural life and training opportunities. Events like this do more than create a great atmosphere; they showcase pathways into agriculture and vocational training that some students may not have considered before.
As MP for Taieri, I’m proud of the role Telford continues to play in our community. They are ensuring their programmes remain relevant, and the Clash of the Colleges is a clear example of that. Between rounds of competition, students toured the campus, looked at the facilities, and watched Telford students working with stock and dogs. Those conversations and first-hand experiences matter — they help young people see what’s possible beyond the classroom.
This was only the second time the event has run, yet it has grown significantly, from 113 students last year to 280 this year. The day was well led by Tangaroa Walker of Farm4Life, who kept the teams moving through 17 different modules.
The challenges were a mix of technical agricultural skills — forestry, meat cuts, wool, dairy, beekeeping — and lighter activities like gumboot throwing, duck-shooting, and hobby horse racing. The balance meant there was something for everyone, and students were able to demonstrate teamwork as well as knowledge.
Campus manager Ali Roxburgh says that Telford’s motto is "teaching all the time", and that approach was evident throughout the day. By using the indoor equine arena, the event was weatherproof and provided the space needed for such a large group.
The support from the wider sector was also strong. Agri Futures has increased the number of $1000 scholarships it offers, with the help of new sponsors.
Silver Fern Farms provided a pretty popular barbecue and I got the easiest job, handing out paper serviettes and asking people if they wanted one or two sausages. The young people had great manners and the girls proved just as hungry as the boys.
Danone introduced a dairy-focused module, broadening the knowledge of students from sheep and beef backgrounds. These contributions make a difference and show the industry’s commitment to the next generation.
There were individual highlights too. One that stood out was year 11 student Tristen Nel from Gore, who won the gumboot throw with an impressive 25m effort. The day ended on a lighter note with a stomach-churning food challenge that had the crowd cheering, while making me wonder if that sort of thing was still allowed. It was straight out of the 1970s i.e. "my day" — no harm done though!
What struck me most, as we handed out the prizes, was the level of engagement from the students. It was clear that this event not only tested their skills but also gave them a glimpse of future opportunities in food and fibre. That, in itself, is a real success.
