Media Releases

Foundation for Arable Research awards its first postgraduate scholarship

The Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) is delighted to announce the award of its inaugural scholarship to Tony Butler.

FAR’s postgraduate scholarship was set up with the aim of encouraging more students into the agricultural science and research arena, providing financial assistance with both course and day-to-day living fees.
The scholarship valued at $7,000 was open to full-time students at Lincoln University whom were eligible to proceed to, or were planning to undertake postgraduate research, which in turn would assist with increasing knowledge within the New Zealand arable farming sector.
Nick Poole, FAR’s Acting Chief Executive said: “it is without a doubt that New Zealand is suffering a shortfall of people skilled in agricultural science areas. Farming in New Zealand relies more now than it ever has in the past on research and extension activities; it is therefore imperative that FAR, as a key industry player, assists with developing such enterprises in order to assist young scientists with their educational requirements.
“I am thrilled to be able to award this scholarship to Tony. Tony stood out as a perfect candidate for this scholarship with clear intentions of pursuing a career in research in agronomic plant studies on completion of his degree. Tony is already part way through his Masters in Agricultural Science where he has concentrated on research in the areas of physiological effects of ryegrass and tall fescue under drought conditions and the efficient use of irrigation water, areas which are vital to the future success of the New Zealand arable and pastoral farming sectors.”

Foundation for Arable Research re-launches website

The Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) is proud to announce the launch of its new look website today.

A website survey form was distributed to FAR levy payers and industry personnel who subscribe to the site in order to ascertain their thoughts on how the site could be improved. Feedback clearly identified three areas where there was room for improvement: 1. download speed, 2. visual appeal and 3. ease of navigation.
As a result, major changes have been made to the site to help improve these factors, at the same time giving it a crisp new look and ensuring that the wealth of technical information has been retained for the use of FAR levy payers and industry subscribers.
The web site provides information about FAR, its structure, events, news, a shop as well as providing an array of technical resource tools in the restricted members’ area.
Important note to FAR levy payers and industry subscribers:
In addition to the re-design, we have also improved the security for our members by switching to personalised user names and passwords. Up until the 31st January, the members’ area can be accessed using existing user name and passwords. However these passwords will need to be replaced by a self selected user name and password prior to then for those who wish to continue using the restricted area of the site. Just click on ‘subscribe’ and follow the simple step-by-step instructions to set up your personal account. Should you have any technical hitches, please contact the FAR office on 03 325 6353.