Upper Clutha farmers will come together on June 6 for the annual Wānaka A&P Winter Crop Competition and Awards Dinner - a celebration of farming and community spirit hosted by the Rotary Club of Wānaka.

Supported by the Wānaka A&P Foundation, the event recognises the district’s top-performing winter feed crops, judged in the field last week.

Organisers said the standard of entries was impressive. 

“There are some great winter feed crops being grown in the district in preparation for winter feeding,” one said.

The awards dinner will begin at 5.30pm at the Upper Clutha Rugby Clubrooms, with broadcaster Peter Williams as guest speaker.

The evening also includes a fundraising auction to support vital emergency services across the region.

Funds raised will go toward advanced paramedical training for the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust, standby generators for the Tarras and Luggate Fire Brigades, and a mobile rescue stretcher for the Lake Hāwea Fire Brigade.

Rotary club organisers said the response to the fundraiser has been “truly humbling”, with generous donations of farm gear, goods, and experiences.

“These emergency services are essential for our remote region, and every bit of support makes a difference,” a spokesperson said.

The event offers farmers the chance to celebrate their work and support important causes.

“We’re looking forward to a great night for the farming community to enjoy each other’s company and give back to those who help keep us safe,” the spokesperson said.

PHOTO: Rotary Club of Wānaka.