At Te Mania Angus, our commitment extends beyond the production of premium beef cattle. We are dedicated to fostering growth within both our cattle and the communities and industries we serve. As a proudly regional business grounded in family values, giving back is fundamental to our mission. One of the key ways we demonstrate this commitment is by supporting the next generation of professionals in agriculture.
It is with great pride that we announce our continued sponsorship of the prestigious Zanda McDonald Award in 2025. This esteemed award recognises young leaders in agriculture, and it provides an invaluable platform for us to support those who are shaping the future of our industry.
Introducing the Winners of the 2025 Zanda McDonald Award
In case you missed our earlier announcement, we are pleased to share that Australian Jack O’Connor and New Zealander Maegen Blom have been named the winners of the 2025 Zanda McDonald Award.
Jack O’Connor – Australian Winner
Jack O’Connor, 32, is based in Harden, NSW, and is the Manager – General Agribusiness, Livestock, Administration & Cropping at the family-owned Oxton Park. This diverse property focuses on cropping, wool, and prime lamb production. Jack is particularly passionate about genetics and animal welfare and has consistently embraced innovative technologies. His focus on renewable energy, agrivoltaics, and carbon accounting reflects his forward-thinking approach to sustainable agriculture.
Maegen Blom – New Zealand Winner
Maegen Blom, 24, serves as the Operations Manager at Mills Bay Mussels, a family-owned business in Marlborough, New Zealand, which supplies Greenshell Mussels to restaurants, wholesalers, and supermarkets across the country. Maegen is also a Founding Member of Young Fish NZ, an organisation that connects young professionals within the seafood industry. Her leadership and commitment to the sector have made her a prominent figure in New Zealand’s aquaculture industry.
Both Jack and Maegen exemplify the qualities of passion, dedication, and leadership that the Zanda McDonald Award seeks to recognise. We are excited to witness their continued success and contributions to the agricultural industry.
Looking Ahead: Nurturing Future Leaders
At Te Mania Angus, we recognise the importance of investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders. Supporting individuals like Jack and Maegen is part of our ongoing commitment to the long-term success and innovation of the industry.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to both Jack O’Connor and Maegen Blom for their outstanding achievements and look forward to their continued influence within agriculture.
To learn more about the Zanda McDonald Award and read more about Jack and Maegen, visit Zanda McDonald Award Website.
We are proud to support a bright and promising future for agriculture, driven by the next generation of dedicated and innovative leaders.
