Jennie Moves On from Secretary Role

Jennie Boerema has been the contact point for the NZFGA for close to a decade. As is so often the case she came to the role via word of mouth as the Industry Association was looking to fill the role. Jennie had been a farmers’ negotiator back in the Netherlands liaising between farmers and local governments. “I had some experience with growers’ issues and applied. I enjoyed the work as it gave me insight on how the Flower Industry worked and what kind of problems they deal with. When it comes to the government liaison, I felt there was not much difference compared to what I experienced in NL. From a trade and sales perspective, I feel business is way harder here than in the Netherlands as it is not a habit to bring a bunch of flowers with you when you visit someone (of course on the bike rack, flowers facing backwards, stems wrapped in cotton wool with water and plastic bag around it...), but there will always be a market for flowers and it is up to the growers to be inventive and look for new opportunities. What I would like to share is that the (NZFGA) Board does a lot of work ‘behind the scenes’, not always visible for the members but believe me, they put a lot of time and effort into it and I think the members should really appreciate this more! I always felt awkward I was the only paid committee member, whereas the Board members did a lot of work for no financial return. I know it was for their benefit as well but they just got on and did it.” Jennie reflects.

When it comes to looking ahead Jennie sees cooperation and learning to work together as key to the future success of growers and the wider industry; “I also think in general the Flower Industry needs to join hands and be more proactive. It is too often divided into small groups and sometimes reacting to situations that are already a fact. One strong voice will work much better, otherwise they negotiate with the ones who already have established contacts in Wellington, be it an individual grower or a small active group.

At a certain time you have to make room for someone new with fresh ideas so I thought it was time for me to move on. I enjoyed working together with the various Board members over the years and would like to thank their confidence in me and wish them all the best in these hard times!”

“I will now spend more time on my passion: (Icelandic) horses). I have a small company dedicated to Icelandic horses (www.vikinghorse.co.nz). Recently I did a coaching course through Equestrian Sports New Zealand and via NZ Pony Club Association and now teach at Pony Clubs and assist people with their Icelandic horses around NZ.

I also want to become more involved in the local landcare group and will start with a project on the water quality of our local stream. A bit back to the roots as I have a degree in Agriculture/ environment. So plenty of things to keep me occupied!”

The NZFGA wishes to extend a heart felt thankyou to Jennie and her family for their dedication to the Association over the years.

Jennie will be succeeded as Secretary of NZFGA by Chris Smellie, well known Rose grower who recently sold his business, and has already begun work on a major Sustainable Farming Fund Application for the Association. Note that the contact details of the NZFGA have changed. To communicate with NZFGA the kol email address is no longer operational. You should contact the Association as follows:

Chris Smellie – Secretary

Email [email protected]

Phone 09 412 7673

Mobile – 0272 478 431.

Postal Address: PO. Box 19 Kumeu 0841