Strong Voices

There’s something special about life on the land. The early mornings, muddy boots, laughter and the bond between people and animals. That’s what the IHC Calf & Rural Scheme photo competition is all about. It’s a chance to capture those moments that make rural life so unique.

Every year this competition brings out the creativity of our rural supporters, and 2025 is no exception. This year we’ve had an incredible response, with 146 entries across three categories: Farm Animals, Working on the Farm and the much-loved IHC Calf category featuring our iconic Allflex pink ear tag.

The IHC Calf & Rural Scheme photo competition has been running since 2013. It’s more than just a fun contest. It’s a celebration of community spirit and of the farmers, families and friends who have supported IHC for generations through the IHC Calf & Rural Scheme, one of New Zealand’s most successful rural fundraising programmes.

Since its beginnings in 1982, the scheme has raised more than $43 million for people with intellectual disabilities, thanks to the generosity and hard work of rural communities across the country.

We’re featuring a few of this year’s stunning photo entries in this issue, but the big decision will be announced in December.

Keep an eye on the IHC Calf and Rural Facebook page for winners’ announcements.

And make sure you follow us at: facebook.com/IHCNewZealand

If you’d like to pledge a calf or make a virtual donation to support people with intellectual disabilities in rural communities, visit www.ihc.org.nz/calf

When you donate to IHC’s Calf & Rural Scheme, you help change lives like Gabrielle’s. Thank you, rural NZ, for your incredible support.

Please donate today: www.ihc.org.nz/calf

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Caption: Not going to get far with you in there Pinky, Buster and Bones! Photo by Fiona Knight.