Zanda McDonald Award | About the Award

The Zanda McDonald Award was established in 2014 with a bold vision: to identify and support the next generation of leaders shaping the future of agriculture across Australia and New Zealand.

More than an award, it is a career-defining opportunity. Through unparalleled access to industry leaders, tailored mentoring, and an influential trans-Tasman network, winners gain the knowledge, confidence and connections to accelerate their careers and create lasting impact.

If you're driven to make a difference in agriculture, eager to learn, and ready to challenge yourself, this is your opportunity. Discover why the Zanda McDonald Award has become one of the most respected leadership programmes in trans-Tasman agriculture—and where it could take you.

Our vision for our finalists and winners is simple: To learn, network, experience and grow.

Learn – from successful leaders and peers
Network - with the best in trans-Tasman agriculture
Experience – first-hand through a tailored mentoring programme
Grow – your capabilities, for personal and professional development

WHO CAN APPLY?

To be eligible for the Award, you must be between the ages of 21 and 35 years or younger (as of 31 October in the year applying) and currently working in primary industries in Australia or New Zealand. It's important to note that applicants should not have any personal connections to individuals involved in the Award scheme.

SHOULD I APPLY?

Past finalists and winners of the Award have come from various agricultural backgrounds: vets, cattle station managers, livestock consultants, beef, sheep, and dairy farmers, and self-employed agri-entrepreneurs. Applicants (and past finalists and winners) have also included those who've worked in the agribusiness corporate sector, such as Fonterra, Pamu Farms, Baker Ag in NZ; LambPro, QLD Dept. of Agriculture in Australia.

Regardless of where they all work and live, what all of our finalists and winners share is the drive to succeed, to make a difference within their industry and to make the most of the opportunities presented to them along the way. If this sounds like you, then why not take the leap and apply?

Applicants must display a passion and a desire to improve their industry. The Award winner must be prepared to represent the Zanda McDonald Award as an ambassador. For example, they may be invited to represent the Award at industry events, field days, or industry conferences.

KEY ANNUAL DATES FOR THE AWARD

1 - 31 October: Applications open.
20 November: Shortlist announced - five from each country.
1 & 2 December: In-person interviews in the shortlisted applicant's respective country.
3 December: Finalists announced - three from Australia and three from NZ.
March: Award winners - one from Australia and one from New Zealand, will be announced at a Celebration Dinner.

For any questions about the application or the Award process, please contact hello@zandamcdonaldaward.com