Bradley Fields Ltd.

Nestled in the heart of Mid Canterbury, just 15 kilometres north of Ashburton, Bradley Fields Ltd. is home to a vibrant family farm devoted to sustainable agriculture. Managed by Brian Leadley, a dedicated farmer with over 40 years of experience, the farm represents a commitment to high-quality crop production while embracing the values of environmental stewardship and community engagement.

Brian’s journey in farming began early, having farmed most of his life. After leaving school, he participated in a Farm Cadet Scheme that provided valuable opportunities to learn the trade. He earned diplomas in farming and management, laying a solid foundation for a decades-long career. “I’ve been based here in Mid Canterbury for the last 31 years, working with livestock but predominantly crops, starting at the family farm for a couple of years before leasing it from my parents,” Brian explained.

In 1993, Brian established Bradley Fields Ltd., transitioning from a traditional family farm to a limited company focused on crop production. “We started with 200 hectares, and now we farm 450,” he said. This expansion reflects growth and a shift in focus – predominantly towards high-quality crops, particularly grains and seeds. Over the years, Brian has cultivated various crops, including milling wheat, barley, and various legumes and vegetables, all tailored to meet market demands.

Central to Brian’s passion is a commitment to producing quality wheat for the New Zealand market. “Cereals and wheat have always been a passion and interest of mine, so we focus particularly on that, which is more along the lines of milling wheat rather than feeding wheat. We like to produce good quality milling wheat to put into the domestic market, so we invest a lot of time and energy into achieving good crops,” he said.

The farm operates a meticulous crop rotation system, a practice Brian emphasises as vital for soil health, sustainability and market demand. In summer, the land is split into thirds: one-third for cereal crops like wheat and barley, another for ryegrass production, and the final third for break crops like clover, peas, onions, and potatoes. In the competitive landscape of grain production, maintaining quality is paramount. “A key part of quality for wheat is focusing on managing the crop and achieving the timing of inputs. We spend a lot of time monitoring crops due to our interest and passion for the cereal industry,” Brian highlighted.

Bradley Fields Farm’s dedication to quality has not gone unnoticed. The farm recently received recognition from the United Wheatgrowers (UWG). “This year, we entered a line of Voltron biscuit wheat into the UWG wheat competition and were thrilled that we picked up first place on that line of wheat,” Brian said. “We were honoured to get that award; United Wheatgrowers runs a wheat competition based on different varieties for different end uses, and I had been involved with UWC for years, so we supported the competition by entering a line. What makes it something we’re even more proud of is that the mills test it for suitability for any market, and with the criteria around protein levels, grain weights, and quality parameters, we know we’re doing something right for our industry. You’re growing it for yourself, but it’s recognised as a good quality product suitable for end use – it’s quite pleasing.” Brian added, “it’s fair to say that it doesn’t come without challenges. Like all farming systems, you deal with the environment, producing things outside and subject to weather elements. But it’s a challenge that I enjoy.”

The integration of sustainable practices is evident in the farm’s operations, enhancing productivity and increasing consumer demand for sustainably produced food. Brian participates in various quality assurance programmes on responsible resource management, including water and soil.

“Sustainable farming practices are key to what we’re doing. We’re not just here to farm today, but forever, and we need to ensure that, whether it’s my family or the next generation of another family here, it’s got to be suitable to do what they’ve got to do. Equally, the market demands it. We have a farming environment plan that monitors our systems and ensures we adhere to best practices,” he highlighted.

With Brian, his wife Rachel, and three grown daughters, community involvement and family time are also pivotal in the Leadley family’s business. Brian’s passion for community extends to initiatives such as the Ashburton AMP Association, which organises local shows and events. “It brings in a few interest points and helps us connect with our community,” he said.

Through collaboration with industry organisations, such as Federated Farmers and the Arable Food Industry Council, Brian actively promotes the values of the agricultural sector. “Involvement with industry organisations is a big part of my life,” he said. “These connections help farmers navigate challenges and foster a sense of community, enabling them to work together toward common goals.”

As technology advances, Brian embraces the changes that come with it. “Machinery and technology introduction has been the pivoting factor going forward within the arable industry,” he said. This shift has led to greater efficiency in farming practices, improved communication, and enhanced sustainability. Integrating modern technology has transformed traditional farming methods, allowing Brian and his one staff member to manage resources more effectively while producing higher-quality crops.

However, with these advancements comes a new set of challenges. The need for detailed record-keeping, compliance with regulations, and strategic planning has become essential in today’s farming landscape. “Most farmers love the physical, practical sides of farming, but the office jobs have increased. Development of farming plans and record-keeping are crucial for supporting market access,” Brian highlighted.

As Brian looks toward the future, he emphasises the importance of succession planning. With aspirations to travel more and spend time with family, Brian envisions a farming system that balances work and life. “Our plans are around easing back the scale of the operation over time. What remains important is the efficiency in what we’re doing.”

Brian’s advice to newcomers to the arable industry is simply to get involved. “To farm well, you need to be focused on timings, but be careful not to be trapped behind the road gate.” Engaging with the broader community and industry is essential for understanding good practices and developing as a farmer. He highlighted that keeping yourself open to events and meeting people is necessary, but what’s also just as important is ensuring your crops are continuously looked after and tended to.

“Pride for me as an arable farmer is seeing good crops. We put a lot of time and effort into working out a rotation, and we run a lot of machinery. One of my favourite jobs is still harvesting our crops. That’s where we see 12 months of work on that day and quality grain – good plump, golden wheat. We love seeing the grain in the trucks fill up fast and the trucks carted away, which to me is a big success. From there, our product goes away to be tested for quality, which is the market’s demand, so getting a good test result finishes the picture,” Brian concluded.