Property Brokers proudly supports the Zanda McDonald Award, honouring the next generation in the primary sector.
Property Brokers are proud sponsors of Zanda McDonald, a prestigious award that celebrates the next generation of leaders in the primary sector. As a committed partner, Property Brokers recognises the award’s significant impact on the career development of emerging rural leaders on both sides of the Tasman. Applications are now open for the 2025 Zanda McDonald Award.
The hunt is on for the next generation of trailblazers in agriculture as applications open for the 2025 Zanda McDonald Award. This esteemed trans-Tasman award is regarded as one of the most coveted prizes in Australasian agribusiness, aimed at identifying and nurturing young leaders making significant strides in the sector.
The Zanda McDonald Award is open to Australian and New Zealand residents aged 21-35 actively involved in agriculture. It offers unparalleled personal and professional development opportunities, with one winner selected from each country each year. Recipients benefit from a bespoke education, training, and mentoring program, which includes access to influential leaders across various facets of the primary sector.
“We’re excited to discover the next generation of passionate young Kiwis and Aussies poised to make a difference in agriculture,” said Shane McManaway MNZM, Chair of the Zanda McDonald Award.
“This award, proudly backed by Property Brokers, is designed to elevate their skills and broaden their horizons. Winners will engage with some of Australasia’s top agricultural operators, gaining invaluable insights and leadership skills that are truly transformative.”
Conrad Wilkshire, Rural GM at Property Brokers, added, “We’re proud to sit alongside other sponsors in Australia and New Zealand to support this very special award. By investing in the Zanda McDonald Award, we’re investing in future leaders in agriculture and helping to provide them with unrivalled development opportunities for personal and professional growth.”
“It was an honour for us to have Nancy Crawshaw attend and speak at the Property Brokers National Rural Conference in Auckland this year, as part of her journey. The opportunity to network with many of New Zealand’s top rural realtors gave valuable insights into the pathway to farm ownership for the younger generation.”
The tailored winners’ program is centred around the recipients’ specific areas of interest and growth, featuring exclusive mentoring trips.
All travel and accommodation costs are covered, including flights via private plane to access diverse and remote locations. Benefits aren’t reserved for the winners; finalists also become part of the award Alumni, providing ongoing support and networking opportunities. In total, there are three finalists from each country.
“I feel so fortunate to have had this opportunity; it truly is one of a kind,” said Tessa Chartres, the 2024 Australian Award winner and General Manager of Business Development at Murray Irrigation, based in Deniliquin, NSW. “I can feel the change in myself already, and know I’ll continue to reap the benefits of this transformative time right throughout my career.”
Tessa won the award alongside New Zealander Nancy Crawshaw, Extension Officer for Angus Australia based in New Zealand. Nancy shared, “I’ve been able to get a seat at the table with some incredible leaders already. It’s helped me see the big picture and how I can carve out my own path to contribute to the future success of agriculture. I’m grateful to Property Brokers for their support in this journey.”
Property Brokers encourages all eligible candidates to apply and take advantage of this remarkable opportunity.
To apply for the 2025 Zanda McDonald Award, click here.
