Environmental Leadership and Innovation in Business Award HC

Third-generation Balfour farmers Blair and Jody Drysdale had spent 15 years talking about producing something on their property that they could take directly to the consumer. When legislation changed around growing hemp in 2018, they identified their opportunity and with that Hopefield Hemp was born.

The couple described starting with a leap of faith, which continues to expand as the business goes from strength to strength. The first year the Drysdale’s planted four-and-a half hectares in hemp, which has evolved into just shy of 12 hectares this year. The operation sees the Drysdales undertake the vast majority of the work from the paddock to the consumer on-farm.

Along with growing their hemp, they also farm a mixture of arable and sheep and beef. It’s a simple ‘why’ for the Drysdale’s – it’s creating opportunities for their three children, who are also involved in Hopefield Hemp. The judges commented that the Drysdales were an impressive duo who have outstanding innovation and are not afraid to give things a go. “They’re not only leading themselves, but paving the way for others.”