As the year draws to a close, I’m encouraged by the resilience and optimism across rural New Zealand Aotearoa. Despite the recent adverse weather, FMG remains optimistic. As a ‘profit making’ not ‘profit maximising’ Mutual insurer, FMG remains committed to delivering ‘a better deal to rural New Zealand Aotearoa’. Earlier this year we signalled pricing relief across several products, around $35 million, passing back relief whilst ensuring the financial strength to be there when you need us most — as in recent weeks.
At FMG’s 120th Annual General Meeting recently held in Ashburton, Members re-elected our Board chair - Sarah von Dadelszen and Member Director - Simon Hopcroft to the Board for a further three-year term, providing continuity as FMG continues to deliver on the Mutual’s long-term Purpose and Vision. Congratulations, Sarah and Simon.
Recently, our Board Chair and I met with the Minister of Finance to emphasise the importance of keeping insurance both available and affordable for farmers, growers and rural communities. A well insured economy is productive, and we believe our Members’ voice is important in discussions about insurance that effects the rural community.
Speaking of health and wellbeing, I’m pleased to confirm two important steps for rural wellbeing. Farmstrong is now operating as a Charitable Trust, reflecting its growth over the past decade into a well-recognised, sustainable force for good in rural communities. I’m also delighted that Gerard Vaughan has been appointed as Chief Executive of Farmstrong. Gerard helped design and establish the programme in 2015, and has lead the programme throughout its history.
It’s all part of delivering to FMG’s Vision of ‘helping to build strong and prosperous rural communities.’
