Patrick notches up one year

Remember Gudgeon Pro and its young inventor/designer Patrick Roskam? The 14 year old has beaten the odds and succeeded in reaching the first birthday of his business. In a climate where statistics show that nine out of ten businesses do not survive the first year, Patrick has managed to break even – no mean feat!

National Fieldays at Mystery Creek marks the one year anniversary since he launched his Gudgeon Pro 5 in 1 gate hanger. Patrick’s product, a tool which speeds up gate hanging, has received an immensely positive response from the business community resulting him being the recipient of numerous national awards, including “Highly Commended” at the New Zealand Innovator awards, “Fieldays Young Innovator of the Year 2014” and winner of the South Island “Agri Innovation Awards – Class 2”. 

As a result of extensive media coverage detailing this young man’s journey from intermediate science fair project, at age 11, to finished product, Patrick has become a well-known entity as he hits the farming show circuit around the country showcasing and marketing the Gudgeon Pro. Supported by his family, who are behind his venture 100%, Patrick’s work ethos of doing things for himself in all areas of his business stands him in excellent stead for the rigours of the business world.  

Patrick’s passion for the farming sector has continued to grow since first attending Fieldays 2013 with a grassroots prototype. “I have dreamed of being in the main pavilion with the big kids,” says Patrick, and that is where he is this year. 

Gudgeon Pro’s birthday will be celebrated in the Main Pavilion at site PD1 – marked with cake. “I’ve done a deal with Mum to do the baking; mind you I think we will need a few cakes," laughs Patrick. 

All customers buying a Gudgeon Pro at Fieldays will get a free Gudgeon Pro key ring. Of course in Patrick Roskam style, designed and printed by himself on his 3D printer purchased with prize money!