Following the Federated farmers annual meeting in Auckland last week, Frank Brenmuhl’s era as Federated Farmers vice-president and a board member came to an end. But it seems far from the end for someone who has been a major force in New Zealand agriculture.
“It’s said that men with beards are wise and Frank Brenmuhl had wisdom in abundance,” said Don Nicolson, Federated Farmers president.
“Yet, Federated Farmers is a democratic body and elections can at times resemble a blood sport without the blood. Only people who stand for office can appreciate the elation of victory and the deflation of loss.
“While Frank’s national career with Federated Farmers has come to an end, another may well open for him in local government next year.
“Local government is crying out for elected members with an enquiring mind who are passionate about bringing real change to the sector.
“Frank’s sharp intellect, command of detail and plain decency make him the sort of person local government really needs. Frank understands city and rural, town and country.
“As past chairperson of Federated Farmers Dairy through to his more recent roles on climate change, health and safety and adverse events, Frank has never been afraid to call it as he sees it.
“His ability to communicate directly to the ‘man in the street’ is a rare asset I hope will not be lost. Too many people today self-censor themselves but Frank is a straight shooter whose instinctive call is often close to the mark.
“I’m very proud that Federated Farmers has been able to harness Frank’s intellect over many years and at all levels of the Federation,” Mr Nicolson said.
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