Federated Farmers mourns the passing of its chairperson

Media Release
16 October 2014

Federated Farmers mourns the passing of its Wanganui provincial dairy chairperson

Members of Federated Farmers Wanganui are saddened by the untimely death of its Dairy Industry Chairman, Tony Rogers.

“Tony was such a great character,” says Brian Doughty, Federated Farmers Wanganui Provincial President.

“He loved to rib us sheep and beef farmers, at times with some justification, though he was such a good sport given how well we’ve done as of late.

“I have worked with Tony on Federated Farmers’ matters over the past ten years but we’ve known each other since being at school together.

“It took a while for us to nab him for the dairy industry role but boy, we were glad we did.

“The last few years he has been a committed dairy chair and an invaluable member of my executive.

“Since he also sung in our local male choir, you could say he found his policy voice in Feds. Tony could be outspoken at times but that’s because he spoke from a position of authority.

“Tony was as much renowned for his love of cheese as he was for his insight into the dairy cooperative system. He was an ardent and lifelong supporter of both Fonterra and Westland as dairy cooperatives.

“Sometimes you could sense his frustration on certain issues but he loved the industry he’d committed his entire life to. Sadly a contribution cut short by that cruel disease called cancer.

“Frankly, there’s not a gentler, caring or more committed person you could hope for. Nothing was too hard or too tall for him. He offered the younger farmers wisdom, experience and innovation in equal measure.

“We’ll miss Tony and offer our deepest sympathies to Sandra and their family,” Mr Doughty concluded.

Please feel free to make donations to the Cancer Society.

ENDS

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