Jonathon Hoets has been appointed to lead the South Island Dairy Even (SIDE) Governance Group, as preparations ramp up for the 2027 event in Ashburton.
He takes over the role of chair following the completion of Glenn Jones' two-year term and brings a wealth of experience to the position.
He has served on the SIDE Governance Group for the past five years and chaired the organising committee for the successful 2023 event at Lincoln, giving him a strong understanding of the conference and its importance to New Zealand's dairy industry.
Hoets and his wife Stacey are equity partners in a 790-cow farm in mid-Canterbury for the Rylib Group.
With SIDE set to be hosted in Ashburton in June 2027, planning is already underway to deliver another high-quality event that brings together dairy farmers, industry professionals and rural businesses from across the South Island and beyond.
Holding the event in Ashburton provides an exciting opportunity to showcase one of New Zealand's leading dairy regions while continuing SIDE's tradition of delivering practical learning, innovation and valuable industry connections.
"SIDE has built a strong reputation for bringing the dairy industry together to learn, connect and share ideas,” Hoets says.
“I'm looking forward to working with the Governance Group and organising committee as we prepare to welcome the industry to Ashburton in 2027 and deliver another outstanding event."
Outgoing Chair Glenn Jones is acknowledged for his dedicated leadership over the past two years, SIDE says.
“During his tenure, he helped guide the strategic direction of SIDE and supported the event's continued growth and success.”