More Paddocks to Plough

Explore the inspiring journey of Graeme Thompson, a visionary leader who transformed the New Zealand meat industry with his groundbreaking company, Fortex New Zealand Limited. This captivating biography, written by Reg Garters, reveals Graeme's remarkable decision to leave his family farm in the picturesque region of Central Otago, setting off a wave of innovation that benefitted consumers and local farmers worldwide. With each page, you’ll discover the challenges and triumphs that defined Graeme’s life—from the heights of fame and fortune to the depths of adversity when his empire collapsed. The story weaves through his Scottish heritage, educational experiences, and the unwavering support of his family, particularly his devoted wife Barb. This book not only highlights extraordinary leadership but also emphasizes resilience and the importance of community in overcoming life’s challenges. Perfect for readers interested in leadership, personal growth, and the meat industry, this narrative offers insightful lessons about handling adversity and redefining success. With 216 pages filled with rich storytelling and valuable insights, it’s an essential read for anyone looking to understand the spirit of entrepreneurship and the power of perseverance. Grab your copy today and witness how one man's journey can inspire so many others.

Author: Reg Garters
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 190 x 250 mm
Pages: 216
Publication Date: 20-11-2017

This book traces Graeme Thompson’s decision to leave the security of his family farm in remote Central Otago and take actions that would revolutionise the New Zealand meat industry, producing huge benefits to consumers around the world as well as to local farmers. For Graeme, these ventures meant fame and fortune and made the name of the dynamic company he founded, Fortex New Zealand Limited, synonymous with his name. But then the empire he had built came crashing down, throwing him into jail and all of the humiliation that went with it. Fortunately, Graeme’s courage, resilience and unwaver-ing support from family and friends saw him through that hard time. After leaving prison, he established a new and exciting business that has brought him a way of life and the tranquillity his previous fame could never offer. This riveting story also takes us through Graeme’s Scottish heritage, his childhood, boarding school and university days, marriage to his wife Barb, and the raising of their children. It is a story that not only exemplifies the extraordinary things that dynamic leadership of ourselves and others can achieve but also shows that we all have special resources to handle adversity and that success or failure is very much how we as individuals see it.