Shortlist shines a light on top young talent
Five Kiwis have been shortlisted for the prestigious 2026 Zanda McDonald Award.
They join five other talented rural professionals from Australia to make up a team whose experience spans the breadth of the agricultural sector, from farm management and financial advisory work to producing sustainably made woollen bags and accessories.
Recognising the next generation of agricultural talent, the Australasian award offers a remarkable prize package focused on personalised mentoring and professional development.
This year’s finalists have been chosen for their strong leadership, passion for the industry, and commitment to advancing the primary sector.
Chloe Butcher-Herries, 32, is farm manager for Mathews Station sheep and beef farm, Central Hawkes Bay. Karn Dhaliwal, 32, is founder and owner of greenfield development cropping business Ohinewai Harvest and Dhaliwal Ag in the Waikato. Lana Marshall, 31, from Invercargill, is client director at NZAB, which provides financial guidance and strategic planning for farmers, and is also 50:50 sharemilker. Laura Torpey, 26, is crop team leader at vegetable produce company A S Wilcox and Sons and a deer farmer, from Awhitu Auckland. Sophie Hurley, 34, from Hunterville, is CEO of sustainable luggage and accessories brand Honest Wolf.
Award chairman Shane McManaway said he’s excited by the strong mix of talent coming through this year.
“It’s a privilege to see the strength of the next generation coming through. This award plays an important role in both celebrating and supporting future changemakers in the ag sector, and this year’s applicants show exceptional promise.”
One winner from each country will be crowned the 2026 recipients of the award, at the Zanda McDonald Award Impact Summit in Christchurch in March.
The winners will each receive a personalised professional development package, including a mentoring trip across Australia and NZ via private jet, $10,000 in tailored education or training, media coaching, and ongoing networking opportunities to support their leadership journeys.