Applications Now Open for the 2026 Zanda McDonald Award

The search is on again for the brightest young leaders in agriculture, with applications now open for the 2026 Zanda McDonald Award. Recognised as a trans-Tasman benchmark of excellence in agribusiness, the Award is renowned for fast-tracking careers and building powerful networks across the primary sector. Each year, two winners are selected: one from New Zealand and one from Australia.

This year’s announcement follows Jack O’Connor, the 32-year-old mixed farmer from Oxton Park in New South Wales, and Maegen Blom, a 24-year-old Operations Manager at Mills Bay Mussels in Marlborough New Zealand, who were named the 2025 Award winners. The 2026 Award is set to uncover more outstanding individuals who are driving innovation and leadership in agriculture.

“We’re excited to discover the next generation of passionate young Kiwis and Aussies who are poised to make a difference in agriculture,” said Shane McManaway MNZM, Chair of the Zanda McDonald Award. “This Award is designed to elevate their skills and broaden their horizons. Winners will engage with some of the top trans-Tasman agricultural operators, gaining invaluable insights and leadership skills that are truly transformative.”

The Zanda McDonald Award is open to Australian and New Zealand residents aged 21–35 who are actively engaged in the primary sector. Each year, one winner is selected from each country. Recipients receive a bespoke program of education, mentoring, and professional development, including access to influential leaders across farming, agribusiness, and beyond.

The winners’ programme is tailored to their specific areas of interest and growth, featuring exclusive mentoring trips and unique experiences. All travel and accommodation costs are covered, with flights often taken by private plane to reach diverse and remote locations. Finalists also become part of the Zanda Alumni, a powerful and growing network who continue to support and learn from each other.

The Award has built a reputation not just for honouring talent, but for accelerating it. Previous winners have described the experience as career-defining, enlightening, and personally transformative.

Applications for the 2026 Zanda McDonald Award are open from 1–31 October 2025, closing at 11.59pm NZT / 10pm AEST.

To apply, click here