News

Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) is proud to announce the finalists for the Regional Leader of the Year for 2025. Sponsored by FMG, this award highlights outstanding volunteer Regional Leaders who demonstrate inspiration and excellence at the grassroots level.

The 2025 finalists are:

1. Tania Clark – A dedicated Waikato leader and advocate for the rural community, passionate about building strong rural networks.
2. Shayla McGrory – Known for her infectious energy, she leads with inclusivity and goes above and beyond to support farmers in Wairarapa.
3. Aimee Wilson – A Waikato dairy farmer, community leader, and advocate for women in agriculture.

These exceptional women have been selected for their leadership within their local communities, embodying the values of DWN, and serving as key connectors within their regions.

The finalists embody exceptional commitment and leadership in New Zealand’s dairy sector. Their unwavering commitment to supporting DWN members and rural communities’ shines through in their remarkable achievements.

Jules Benton, DWN CEO, enthusiastically praised this year’s finalists: “These women are the epitome of leadership and community engagement, driving the success of our dairy sector and rural communities forward.”

The recipient will receive a scholarship for an approved leadership development programme of their choice.

The sixth Regional Leader of the Year will be announced on May 1 at the Gala Dinner during the DWN2025 Conference, themed “Success through Inspiration”. Registrations are open to join in celebrating the finalists at the Conference and Gala Dinner, find out more at: https://www.dwn.co.nz/dwn2025conference

-Ends-

Photo: Supplied by DWN; (Clockwise from top) Tania Clark, Aimee Wilson, Shayla McGrory.

For more information:
Sarah van Munster
Partner Relationship Manager
Phone: 07 974 4852
media@dwn.org.nz

About the Finalists
Tania Clark
Tania Clark is a dedicated leader and advocate for the rural community. Passionate about building strong rural networks, Tania is known for her ability to foster relationships, empower individuals, and bring people together.

Beyond DWN, she dedicates her time to spreading kindness by baking homemade treats for those in need and plays an active role in community fundraising initiatives. With more than 15 years of experience in coaching and managing local sports teams and school groups, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to her community.

Professionally, as a rural banker, she supports farming families in achieving their goals, understanding the sector’s challenges and opportunities. Her dedication, leadership, and passion make her an influential role model in the dairy sector, continuously striving to uplift and support those around her.

Shayla McGrory
Shayla McGrory, based in Wairarapa, is a passionate advocate for the dairy industry. Her journey began as a farm assistant before building an impressive career that showcases her commitment to improving milk quality and fostering collaboration within the sector.

Known for her infectious energy, she leads with inclusivity and has dedicated herself to empowering farmers through education, events, and meaningful support. Her leadership extends beyond her professional roles— through supporting initiatives like Reporoa Rural WorkNet, Rural Riders, school pet days, and local dairy sector events. Her curiosity, drive, and passion for dairy continue to make a significant impact in New Zealand’s agricultural community.

Aimee Wilson
Aimee Wilson is a dedicated dairy farmer, community leader, and advocate for women in agriculture. With over a decade of experience in farm management, Aimee values balance in life, prioritizing family and farm while remaining actively involved in her local community.

As a Hub Leader for DWN, Aimee covers the Waikato region, has served on the Conference Committee and is part of the DWN Business Groups, she takes pride in creating engaging events for local dairy women and fostering meaningful connections within the sector. Outside of DWN, she has been involved in her children’s schools and assisting with coaching and managing tennis and youth soccer teams.

Aimee embodies the DWN values, crediting the network with boosting her confidence and personal growth. She is a resilient, dedicated and positive role model, inspiring others to thrive in both farming and community life.