Brian CAMERON Obituary

Dad was a wonderful mentor to me. His wisdom and guidance have shaped the person I am today. My sisters, Lynette and Joanne, and I were truly privileged to be raised on farms, and this cultivated my love for the land. Dad taught us all sorts of farming practices and how to operate equipment, even though we were daughters. We were privileged to have been taught responsibility, resilience, and hard work by such an extraordinary man. He instilled in us persistence and determination and taught us to live with integrity.
Brian was an irrigation and agribusiness pioneer. He was the first farmer to install a deep irrigation bore in Canterbury (possibly in New Zealand) and use underground pressurised water systems. His contributions included advancing Lincoln University, establishing Mid-Canterbury irrigation schemes, playing a pivotal role in PPCS (now Silver Fern Farms) and initiating student scholarships. Most of this work was unpaid or with a low stipend.
Dad´s genuine interest and wisdom made him a trusted sounding board for his daughters and grandchildren. I often feel his presence saying `I´m being the devil´s advocate, what would you do if this happens?' This instilled in me the habit of always having a Plan B or C.
Dad led a remarkable life, leaving an indelible mark on farming, governance, agribusiness, and the community. Despite his significant influence, he remained deeply humble, and his lessons and love will stay with us forever. Dad was a true inspiration, a man of immense character and endless generosity, and I am so proud that he was my Dad.
Helen Whelan, eldest daughter.

Dad was a pillar of strength and wisdom.
He truly understood the value of a hard day's work. His sandpaper-rough hands, worn from farm work, were a testament to his dedication and hard work.
Dad had a serious disposition and didn't bother much with small talk, but when he did speak, it was always important and meaningful. Despite this, he had a knack for cracking Dad jokes even during his last days in hospital. His ability to maintain his sense of humour, even in difficult times, speaks volumes about his character and resilience.
Dad (and Mum) worked incredibly hard on the farms and made huge sacrifices to provide a secure future for his children and grandchildren.
Dad taught us kids that you could write a budget and a financial projection for everything. He also taught us the importance of planning and was keen to pass that valuable lesson on to us.
Dad's actions were always a calculated risk, driven by his desire to make a difference in every project he undertook. Yet, he was the last to draw attention to his vast and various services extending far beyond our family, reaching into governance, business, and the community. He was a role model and an inspiring figure for many.
Above all, Dad had a genuine interest in his children and grandchildren. He was our trusted sounding board, always generous with this time and there to listen and offer guidance. He was proud of all of us. We were incredibly lucky to have him as our father!

Brian was an inspiration for me as a young man when we worked together to develop the irrigation scheme. His vision, dignity and persistence made a profound and lasting impact upon me that has remained with me to this day. The legacy he left the irrigated agriculture and cooperative business sectors has been transformative and enduring for not only our community but also our country. I wish him peace at this time. Love and respect, Philip McKendry.

So sorry to read of Brian´s passing. A Life well lived.
Our Sympathy to you all at this time
Peter and Maree Kidd.

Lynette we are so saddened to hear that your dad has passed away, our condolences to your family.

TO Norma and family, so sorry to read of Brian's passing, sending Sympathy to you all at this time, a life well lived, may he RIP.