It’s all hands on deck, and in our farm business that means kids and all.
It’s a proud moment watching them feed calves, wind up fence breaks, milk and drove.
I feel like I’ve done myself out of a job some days, but it does make my heart swell to see the interest and connection our kids have with dairy.
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting with the Gippsland Young Dairy network LAC, an inspiring group of young leaders coordinating remarkable programs for their peers with GippsDairy’s assistance.
It was clear how fortunate Gippsland is to have such dedicated and inspirational young farmers and service providers, all eager to make a difference in our region through connection.
The leadership opportunities and networks provided to them through GippsDairy have been a key focus for the board.
I hear that preparations for the YDN Christmas break-up are well under way and shouldn’t be missed on Sunday, November 23 in Mirboo North.
If you have a young person working in your business or a service provider as part of your farm support team, please encourage them to connect in. Building networks and learning from our peers is always a game changer.
The Gippsland Dairy Industry Strategic plan is now complete, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Gippsland Dairy Industry Leadership Group (GDILG), RM Consulting Group, Gardiner Foundation, Regional Development Victoria, West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and GippsDairy.
The plan is now available to guide future funding and investment opportunities into our region.
Matt Gleeson, the current chair of GDILG and dairy farmer from Boolarra, has done an exceptional job representing Gippsland.
Through GDILG’s networks, they have also been instrumental in helping both government and industry understand the recent impacts of the drought in Gippsland.
The team of GippsDairy have been very active reaching out to farmers during this time. Please get in contact if you require support, the team are available to you.
There are many pressures and decisions farmers face on a daily basis.
This season could be one of the most challenging in some parts of Gippsland.
Commodity prices and moisture availability have been testing, and may continue to be. The need to plan early is critical.
Reach out to your trusted supports early to secure a plan backed by the critical numbers of your business.
Agriculture Victoria has grants open that will help fund a consultant to come in and work the numbers with you and plan ahead. Go to: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/drought-support/technical-decision-making-support
With a very healthy milk price, setting the season up from the outset puts you and your business in the driver’s seat.
Enjoy springtime — I hope moisture and sun aligns for a great season ahead.
– Sarah O’Brien is the GippsDairy chair.
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