The awards would not be possible without the support of the dedicated award sponsors. A massive thank you to Ravensdown, Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Graymont and Keith Andrews for your continued support in celebrating the shining stars in our industry.
Leadership comes in many forms. Sometimes it stands at the front of the room, guiding conversations and shaping the future. Other times, it happens quietly behind the scenes, through the sharing of knowledge, the mentoring of others, and a willingness to simply help whenever it’s needed.
This year, the judges recognised that both forms of leadership deserved to be celebrated.
For the first time since the Ballance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award was introduced, the judges unanimously selected joint recipients, recognising two individuals whose contributions have strengthened Groundspread NZ and the wider industry in different, yet equally significant, ways.
While their journeys have taken different paths, Gary Carr and Simon Pedersen share the same values that define this award. They lead with integrity, put the industry ahead of themselves, willingly share their knowledge, and have spent many years helping others succeed.
Together, they represent the very best of Groundspread NZ.
Gary Carr has never sought recognition for his contribution to the groundspreading industry. In fact, those who know him best describe him as someone who is far more comfortable helping others succeed than talking about his own achievements.
Over many years with Spreading North Canterbury, Gary has earned a reputation as someone who is always willing to lend a hand, answer a question, or share his experience, regardless of who is asking.
For Gary, knowledge has never been something to protect. It is something to pass on.
Whether supporting new operators, encouraging better driver training, or helping fellow contractors improve their businesses, Gary has always believed that raising standards across the industry benefits everyone. Competition has never stood in the way of collaboration.
That philosophy is perhaps best summed up in one simple belief he shared during his interview:
It is a philosophy that has shaped not only his own business, but also the way he supports the wider industry.
Gary has been instrumental in promoting driver development, safety, and best practice within his region. He has helped facilitate training opportunities, encouraged operators to embrace new technology, and has consistently focused on ensuring customers receive the highest possible standard of service.
His leadership is not measured by titles or committee positions. It is measured by the respect he has earned from those around him.
The judges recognised Gary’s humility as one of his greatest strengths. Throughout the judging process, it became clear that many of his most significant contributions have happened quietly, without expectation of recognition or reward.
His willingness to share knowledge, support fellow members, and continually invest in the people around him makes him an outstanding recipient of the 2026 Ballance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award.
For Simon Pedersen, leadership has always begun with one simple principle:
That mindset has guided his involvement with Groundspread NZ from the very beginning.
What started with volunteering at branch level gradually grew into years of service across the Association, culminating in his time as National President. Throughout that journey, Simon has remained focused on ensuring Groundspread NZ continues to evolve while staying true to the needs of its members.
Under his leadership, the Association has navigated significant industry change, strengthened relationships across the sector, and continued advocating for practical solutions that benefit professional groundspreaders throughout New Zealand.
Simon has played an important role in industry discussions surrounding transport regulation, overdimension vehicle requirements, and travel time rules, helping ensure the voice of groundspreaders is heard during policy development.
Perhaps even more importantly, Simon has consistently invested in people.
He has encouraged younger members to become involved, challenged emerging leaders to step forward, and willingly shared his time and experience with those taking on new responsibilities within the Association. During his interview, he reflected on mentoring Groundspread NZ’s Executive Officers through periods of transition and supporting others as they developed confidence in their roles.
His approach to leadership is practical and personal.
Rather than relying solely on emails or formal meetings, Simon believes in picking up the phone, having honest conversations, and ensuring every member feels supported. He has often said there is no such thing as a silly question if it helps someone learn.
His contribution extends well beyond governance. It is reflected in the culture he has helped foster throughout Groundspread NZ, where collaboration, participation, and continuous improvement remain at the heart of the Association.
While Gary Carr and Simon Pedersen have contributed to Groundspread NZ in different ways, the qualities that define their leadership are remarkably similar.
Both have invested countless hours into strengthening the industry, often without seeking recognition. Both have freely shared their knowledge and experience. Both have encouraged others to step forward, supported members through change, and demonstrated that the success of the industry depends on people being willing to contribute something greater than themselves.
During the judges’ deliberations, it became clear that each represented a different, but equally valuable, form of leadership. Simon’s contribution through national governance and advocacy was balanced by Gary’s quiet mentorship, regional leadership, and unwavering support of others. Rather than choosing between them, the judges chose to recognise both.
Together, Gary and Simon embody everything the Ballance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award was created to celebrate.
Congratulations to Gary Carr and Simon Pedersen, worthy joint recipients of the 2026 Ballance Agri-Nutrients President’s Award. Your leadership, generosity, and commitment continue to strengthen Groundspread NZ and the wider groundspreading industry for generations to come.
Ballance is a New Zealand farmer-owned co-operative that helps its customers to farm more productively, profitably and sustainably. From its core business of fertiliser manufacturing, supply, sales, and advice, Ballance has grown to offer farmers a full range of science-backed nutrient products and services. This enables us to help farmers achieve soil and animal nutrition and productivity with a minimal environmental footprint. Ballance’s agri-nutrient advice is complemented by award-winning web-based farm systems software. With strong emphasis on quality and professionalism, Ballance is proud to be the sponsor of the prestigious President’s Award.
The Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award recognises emerging leaders who demonstrate exceptional promise, initiative, and a genuine commitment to advancing New Zealand’s groundspread industry.
This year’s recipient, Matt Campbell of Campbell Spreading, represents a new generation of leaders who understand that success is about far more than running a successful business. Through his commitment to developing people, embracing innovation, and actively contributing to Groundspread NZ, Matt is helping shape a stronger future for the industry he is passionate about.
Whether supporting his staff, strengthening customer relationships, or encouraging greater involvement in the Association, Matt approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm, humility, and a desire to leave the industry better than he found it.
Campbell Spreading has grown quickly, but Matt is the first to acknowledge that successful businesses are built on strong relationships and strong people.
From introducing practical systems within his workshop to improve communication, to developing staff and creating an environment where employees are trusted to learn and grow, Matt has embraced the challenges of business ownership with maturity beyond his years. He openly spoke about learning that leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself, but about giving others the confidence to succeed.
That willingness to learn has been central to his own journey. Rather than pretending to have all the answers, Matt continually looks for opportunities to improve, recognising that every challenge presents another chance to become a better leader.
Relationships are at the heart of everything Matt does.
He believes exceptional customer service is built on genuine relationships. Whether delivering Christmas hampers to customers, checking in throughout the year, or simply making time for a conversation over a beer, Matt understands that trust is earned through consistent communication and doing what you say you’ll do.
That same philosophy extends to his employees.
Matt doesn’t claim to have all the answers and spoke honestly about the challenges of managing staff for the first time, learning to step back, allow people to make mistakes, and create opportunities for others to develop. Rather than expecting perfection, he sees leadership as helping people become confident and capable in their own roles.
It is a practical, people-first approach that reflects both humility and maturity.
Matt’s contribution extends well beyond his own business.
An active supporter of Groundspread NZ, he is passionate about encouraging greater member involvement and strengthening the role local branches play in bringing the industry together. He believes the Association has an important role in supporting members through training, networking, and the sharing of knowledge and experience.
Driver training is another area close to his heart. Matt sees ongoing education as essential to maintaining high standards of safety, professionalism, and service across the industry. He is committed to creating more opportunities for operators to learn, develop, and build long-term careers within groundspreading.
For Matt, the future of the industry depends on creating pathways for the next generation, supporting young people entering the profession, and ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed.
While still early in his career, Matt has already demonstrated the qualities of a leader who is focused not only on today’s challenges, but on tomorrow’s opportunities.
His willingness to embrace change, invest in people, and contribute to the wider industry reflects the values that sit at the heart of Groundspread NZ. Through his leadership, Campbell Spreading continues to grow, while his involvement in the Association is helping build a stronger future for members across the country.
Reflecting on what motivates him most, Matt says:
“I’m passionate about helping the next generation into the industry. If we can keep developing people, supporting driver training and building stronger branches, then we’re creating a better future for everyone involved.”
Congratulations, Matt. Your leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to people make you a deserving recipient of the 2026 Ravensdown Young Achiever’s Award.
Ravensdown is a fertiliser co-operative. We manufacture and import quality agri-products for our shareholders. Ravensdown’s mission is to enable smarter farming for a better New Zealand. We are proud to support the Young Achiever’s Award. This award fits with Ravensdown’s philosophy of recognising the achievements of young people within agriculture. We already offer agri-scholarships and are delighted to grow our support of youth in agriculture by sponsoring this award.
We believe that by rewarding excellence in this way, we can help ensure that the ground spreading industry continues to attract young talent.
The Graymont Emerging Talent Award recognises individuals who consistently go above and beyond, embracing every opportunity to learn, take responsibility, and make a meaningful contribution to both their business and the wider groundspreading industry.
This year’s recipient, Matthew Scully of Scully’s Transport, exemplifies those qualities.
At just 23 years of age, Matthew has already established himself as an integral part of one of New Zealand’s longest-standing groundspreading businesses. Combining practical experience, commercial understanding, and a genuine passion for continuous improvement, he is helping lead Scully’s Transport into its next chapter while remaining grounded in the values that have underpinned the business for generations.
His maturity, professionalism, and willingness to embrace responsibility make him a deserving recipient of the 2026 Graymont Emerging Talent Award.
Growing up around trucks, machinery and agriculture, Matthew developed an appreciation for the industry from an early age. After completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Agriculture at Lincoln University and gaining valuable experience working in Western Australia, he returned home to Southland with fresh ideas and a broader perspective.
Rather than simply stepping into the family business, Matthew has earned the trust and respect of those around him through his work ethic, accountability, and willingness to continually learn.
Today, as Transportation Manager, he oversees daily transport operations, coordinates logistics, supports customers and staff, and plays an important role in planning for the future of the business.
Matthew believes there is always a better way to do things.
Whether introducing new technology, improving reporting systems, streamlining business processes, or investing in equipment that delivers long-term value, he approaches every decision with careful thought and a focus on continuous improvement.
His commercial background has also strengthened the business behind the scenes. From financial reporting and operational planning to making informed investment decisions, Matthew combines practical experience with sound business thinking, helping ensure Scully’s Transport remains well positioned for the future.
For Matthew, improvement isn’t about making change for the sake of it. It’s about finding practical solutions that make the business stronger, more efficient, and better prepared for whatever comes next.
Taking on a leadership role at a young age brings its own challenges, but Matthew approaches them with humility and professionalism.
He understands that respect is earned through actions rather than titles. By listening first, communicating openly, and leading by example, he has built strong relationships with staff, customers, and suppliers alike.
That people-first approach reflects the culture that has long defined Scully’s Transport. Whether supporting colleagues through busy periods, helping implement new systems, or simply taking the time to understand different perspectives, Matthew believes successful businesses are built on trust and teamwork.
Reflecting on his approach to leadership, Matthew says:
“I like to think that I’m leading by example. I’ve got to do what I say I’m going to do. If I expect that from everyone else, I have to expect it from myself first.”
While Matthew is proud of the legacy built by previous generations, he is equally focused on ensuring the business continues to evolve.
By combining traditional values with modern systems, embracing new technology, and investing in people, he is helping position Scully’s Transport for continued success in an ever-changing industry.
His enthusiasm for learning, commitment to excellence, and willingness to take responsibility well beyond his years reflect the very qualities the Graymont Emerging Talent Award was created to recognise.
Congratulations, Matthew. Your professionalism, initiative, and commitment to continuous improvement make you a worthy recipient of the 2026 Graymont Emerging Talent Award.
Graymont is a highly reliable and trusted global leader in delivering essential calcium-based solutions to meet the world’s changing needs. Founded in 1948, the company is professionally managed and family-owned to proudly serve a wide range of markets, customers and communities in North America and Asia Pacific. 
Graymont’s calcium-based solutions include high calcium lime, value-added lime-based products, pulverized limestone and construction stone products. They provide essential solutions to a wide range of industrial, construction and agricultural markets to support air and water purification, animal nutrition and soil conditioning, and production of materials such as paper, glass, steel, and critical minerals. Strongly committed to participating in a decarbonised economy, Graymont proactively invests in research and development and works closely with customers on their emerging needs and engineered solutions.
The Keith Andrews Innovation Award recognises individuals who challenge convention, embrace new ideas, and develop practical innovations that improve New Zealand’s groundspread industry.
This year’s recipient, Paul Hoyle, has spent decades quietly doing exactly that.
For Paul, innovation has never been about inventing something revolutionary for the sake of it. Instead, it begins with a simple question:
“What’s stopping operators from doing their job better?”
From that starting point has come a lifetime of practical engineering solutions that have transformed how groundspread equipment performs across New Zealand.
Whether redesigning gearboxes, improving spreader performance, or developing equipment capable of handling entirely new waste products, Paul’s work has consistently helped operators overcome real-world challenges.
Groundspreading has always been part of Paul’s life.
Born into the industry, he has spent decades designing, building and refining equipment, including many years working in Australia before returning home with an even broader perspective on engineering and machinery.
When asked what inspired his approach to innovation, Paul’s answer was characteristically simple:
“The customers were at you, and you’ve got to fix something. If it’s not working, you’ve got to fix it.”
That practical philosophy has guided everything he has designed throughout his career.
One of Paul’s greatest strengths is his ability to anticipate where the industry is heading.
As increasing volumes of industrial by-products and organic waste are diverted to land application, operators are being asked to spread products that behave very differently from traditional fertilisers.
Rather than waiting for those challenges to arrive, Paul has been designing solutions years in advance.
Recent developments include a redesigned spreader gearbox, new stirring systems that prevent difficult products from tunnelling inside bins, and spinner modifications that break down heavy clay-like waste materials before they reach the paddock. These innovations allow operators to spread products that previously presented significant operational challenges.
Although many of the industry’s innovations carry Paul’s fingerprints, he is quick to point out that good ideas rarely come from one person alone.
Throughout his career he has worked closely with operators, contractors and customers, listening carefully to the challenges they experience in the field before returning to the workshop to develop practical solutions.
As he said during his acceptance speech:
“Most innovation is through a group of people, not a single person.”
That willingness to listen has resulted in equipment that continues to evolve alongside the changing needs of New Zealand agriculture.
Paul has never been content with simply building the same equipment year after year.
He embraces new technologies wherever they can improve the design process, including using 3D printing to prototype components before committing to expensive manufacturing, allowing new concepts to be tested, refined and improved quickly and cost-effectively.
Just as importantly, every new design builds on decades of experience. Rather than chasing complexity, Paul’s focus has always been on practical engineering that delivers reliable performance in demanding conditions.
His innovations have become part of everyday operations for contractors across the country, often without those operators realising just how much development has gone into making the equipment work better.
While discussing the finalists, the judges reflected that Paul is “constantly trying to improve and do things” and that his passion for advancing the industry “has never wavered.”
That relentless pursuit of improvement, combined with decades of practical engineering expertise, has helped shape the equipment used throughout New Zealand’s groundspread industry today.
Congratulations, Paul. Your ingenuity, persistence and commitment to solving real-world challenges make you a worthy recipient of the 2026 Keith Andrews Innovation Award.
Keith Andrews, New Zealand’s largest commercial vehicle dealer, is an established Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and FUSO specialist providing commercial vehicle sales and service from locations throughout the North Island. The company’s ethos centres on the principle that great people make great businesses, and Keith Andrews is proud to have a team of passionate individuals, who share a common approach to delivering excellent customer service. Keith Andrews proudly sponsors the Innovation Award to support and celebrate the classic Kiwi traits of ingenuity and creativity for the betterment of the Groundspread industry and community.
The prestigious Spreadmark Trophy is awarded to individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the Spreadmark scheme and to promoting excellence in nutrient placement across New Zealand.
Originally donated by Groundspread NZ Life Member Jim Laird, the trophy honours those whose commitment to quality, professionalism and continuous improvement strengthens not only Spreadmark itself, but the reputation of the entire groundspread industry.
This year’s recipient, John Schultz, embodies those values.
For more than two decades, John has been recognised as one of the industry’s most respected operators and leaders.
As the founder of Mainland Spreading, a former Groundspread NZ President, long-serving National Council member, and current Otago/Southland Branch Chair, he has dedicated countless hours to strengthening both the Association and the wider industry. Throughout that time, he has built a reputation for bringing people together, encouraging collaboration, and always focusing on practical solutions that benefit everyone
Those same qualities have made him one of Spreadmark’s strongest advocates.
John has long understood that Spreadmark is about far more than certification.
It represents professionalism, accountability and a shared commitment to applying fertiliser with precision, responsibility and care.
Over many years he has actively promoted the scheme, encouraged operators to embrace best practice, and generously shared his knowledge and experience with others.
More recently, as the future of Spreadmark has required careful discussion, collaboration and new ways of thinking, John has continued to step forward with optimism, practical insight and an unwavering commitment to ensuring the scheme continues to evolve.
His ability to remain solutions-focused while bringing people together has helped provide confidence during a period of significant change.
John has never sought recognition.
Instead, he has earned the respect of his peers through consistency, humility and a genuine willingness to help others succeed.
Whether mentoring operators, supporting fellow members, or contributing to industry discussions, he approaches every opportunity with the same calm, practical mindset that has defined his leadership throughout his career.
As those who know John will attest, he is always willing to share his knowledge, offer advice, and support improvements that benefit not just one business, but the industry as a whole. His passion for seeing others grow and his belief that every member should be an ambassador for the industry continue to leave a lasting impression on those around him.
When presenting the award, Groundspread NZ acknowledged John’s longstanding commitment to the Spreadmark scheme and his continued willingness to contribute wherever needed.
His positivity, practical thinking and unwavering support for best practice have helped ensure Spreadmark remains a respected benchmark for New Zealand’s groundspread industry.
“Known for his solutions-focused approach, positivity, and willingness to step forward when needed, he has remained deeply committed to ensuring Spreadmark continues to evolve and remain a strong benchmark for our industry.”
That unwavering leadership, combined with decades of service to both Spreadmark and Groundspread NZ, makes John a thoroughly deserving recipient of the 2026 Spreadmark Trophy.
Congratulations, John. Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence and for helping shape the future of nutrient placement in New Zealand.
The Spreadmark Trophy was proudly introduced by Groundspread NZ Life Member Jim Laird, whose lifelong commitment to precision nutrient placement and the Spreadmark scheme has helped establish the high standards the industry upholds today.
Jim’s decision to donate the Spreadmark Trophy reflects his deep commitment to recognising individuals who go above and beyond, not for recognition, but for the betterment of their team, their clients, and the industry. Awarded annually, the Spreadmark Trophy celebrates individuals whose dedication, professionalism and leadership continue to strengthen the Spreadmark scheme and inspire excellence across the groundspread industry.
We are honoured to present this award each year in a way that continues Jim’s legacy of precision, professionalism, and quiet leadership.