Farmy Army's John Hartnell, a semi-finalist for the 2012 Kiwibank Local Heroes Award

Federated Farmers is delighted that John Hartnell, a former National Board member, Chairperson of Federated Farmers Bees and ‘generalissimo’ of the Farmy Army, is a semi-finalist for the 2012 New Zealander of the Year Kiwibank Local Heroes Award.

“Being a semi-finalist for the Kiwibank Local Heroes Award is deserved recognition of the work done by John Hartnell and the Federated Farmers movement known as the Farmy Army,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President.

“Following the Canterbury earthquakes, it is recognition that ordinary people can make a difference. What a difference did farmers, Young Farmers, Rural Women and rural businesses make and continue to make to Christchurch and Canterbury.

“The Farmy Army’s work is on-going. Out of the gaze of the media, we’ve still got members working in the most affected communities with the most vulnerable.

“The Farmy Army became a bridge between rural New Zealand and urban Christchurch with many residents becoming honorary farmers themselves.

“From tragedy came a sense of community because the Farmy Army has helped to build friendships and understanding. At its heart was John Hartnell.

“John, I know, would like to throw deserved recognition on our staff and the thousands of volunteers but there’s also a feeling John shaped something special. The Farmy Army is a statement that when the chips are down, New Zealand can depend on its farmers.

“For that reason John Hartnell is very much a hero to us at Federated Farmers,” Mr Wills concluded.

Three finalists in each Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards category will be announced on 16 January. The winners will be announced at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards gala dinner in Auckland, on 16 February 2012.