Zanda McDonald Award | About the Award

Are you passionate about making a difference in agriculture? Do you want to further develop your skills and take your career to the next level? If so, the Zanda McDonald Award is perfect for you. We're all about recognising determined and passionate young individuals from Australia and New Zealand who are making waves in the agricultural industry. The Award offers a unique opportunity to learn from successful leaders and peers, network with the best in trans-Tasman agriculture, gain valuable experience through a tailored mentoring program, and grow both personally and professionally.

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 2025) and currently working in agribusiness 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 Depart. 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 during their term. For example, they may be invited to represent the Award at industry events, field days, or industry conferences.

KEY DATES FOR THE 2025 AWARD

1 - 31 October 2025: Applications open.
20 November 2025: Shortlist announced - five from each country.
1 & 2 December 2025: In-person interviews in the shortlisted applicant's respective country.
3 December 2025: Finalists announced - three from Australia and three from NZ.
March 2026: Award winners - one from Australia and one from New Zealand, will be announced at the Zanda McDonald Award Impact Summit, Christchurch, NZ, at a Celebration Dinner.

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