Winter crops are getting a brief moment in the sun, before being decimated by stock for another year.

The combined Waiareka Valley and Waianakarua Lions Clubs are in the midst of judging the 2023 Lions Winter Crop Competition North Otago. 

The competition has been running since 2015, with a hiatus last year due to Covid-19, combined Lions’ organising committee member Gary Ross said.

“We invite farmers to enter their winter crops, say fodder beet or kale and we then go out and measure them for weight, quality and overall appearance.

“The paddocks are then judged by independent judges.”

Finalists are chosen in various categories, and winners announced at a function at the Loan and Merc, on May 12.

A fundraising auction is held with donations from local businesses, and proceeds this year will be divided between the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust, Hato Hone St John Ōamaru, and the Waitaki Event Centre, Gary said.

In 2021, about $70,000 was raised.

There were usually up to around 100 paddocks entered - some farms had more than one paddock - and approximately 300 people usually attended the fundraiser dinner, he said.

“It’s a massive night, it’s really good.”

While judging had begun, the committee wouldn’t turn entries away yet, Gary said.

“Our group goes out, we do all the assessments, then we have independent judges once they establish what appears to be the best crops… and we isolate them down for final judging.”

Judging finishes at the end of April.

All farmers who enter the competition receive a free ticket to the finals night, and anybody else wanting to attend is required to make a $50 donation.

For more information, contact Crop Growing Competition Committee treasurer Leanne Stanger on 027 200 9630 or email [email protected].

A paddock of Fodder Beet being judged this week. PHOTO: Supplied/Gary Ross