On farm learning key for WIL’s new environmental advisor
WIL’s new environmental advisor Georgina (Georgie) Woods is passionate about being able to help WIL’s shareholders achieve their environmental goals.
WIL’s new environmental advisor Georgina (Georgie) Woods is relishing the opportunity to work closely with Waimakariri farmers on their environmental goals, while being based closer to her Rangiora home.
“For me the most important way to understand farmers is to go out on the farm with them and get to know more about their farming operation, their family, their goals and their plans for the future.”
Georgie grew up in Rangiora and both of her parents had agricultural roles with her mum, Gendie, working as a specialist farm accountant and her dad, Mark, working in the stock and station industry.
They also leased a sheep and beef farm near Amberley where Georgie spent many weekends working with her dad and that’s where her love of agriculture began. While at Rangiora High School, she enjoyed agricultural studies and being able to put learnings into action on the school’s farm led to her pursuing a career in agriculture.
After graduating from Lincoln University in 2023 with an Agricultural Science degree (Hons) and an additional major in Environmental Management, Georgie spent just under two years working as an environmental advisor for Enviro Collective based in Ashburton. Her role focused on providing environmental support for the Barrhill Chertsey, Acton Farmers and Rangitata South irrigation schemes.
When the environmental advisor opportunity with WIL came up, Georgie jumped at the chance to work in North Canterbury and to become immersed in the diversity of the role during a time of change and strong growth at WIL.
Now three weeks into her new job, Georgie is learning about the scheme and has been out and about meeting shareholders. She’s also enjoying the shorter commute time from Rangiora to WIL’s Oxford office.
“I was spending about three hours per day driving from Rangiora to Ashburton so it’s lovely to have a few more hours in the day for myself. I have been on a tour around the scheme and have met some of our shareholders who are all so welcoming.
“I am joining WIL at an exciting time where I will have lots of opportunities for learning and development, but for me the main thing is to be out on the ground with the farmers and getting to know them and their farming businesses.”
Initially, Georgie’s role will focus on Farm Environment Plan (FEP) updates and coordinating WIL’s FEP audit programme, along with supporting Ben and the wider WIL team with various environmental projects.
When Georgie isn’t working, she enjoys playing netball for the Amberley Netball Club, baking, photography, volunteering for organisations such as the Northern A&P Show and working on her newly-purchased first home with her partner, Reegan.
