The next generation of Victorian dairy industry leaders have departed to New Zealand today on an annual study tour funded by the Gardiner Foundation.

The United Dairyfarmers of Victoria, the dairy group of the VFF, organise the annual tour to build leadership capabilities in young members of the dairy industry.

“It’s about harnessing that enthusiasm and building on skills to get young people passionate about the dairy industry here at home,” UDV President Adam Jenkins said.

“It’s been a tough year for dairy farmers in New Zealand with dry conditions and a low milk price, however there’s a lot to learn from our neighbours in terms of management practices.”

This year the study tour will travel to the South Island visiting dairy farms, research and processing facilities and agricultural sites.

“It will be an excellent opportunity for our young industry leaders to see firsthand the growth that has occurred in the south of New Zealand and to meet industry leaders and other young farmers,” Mr Jenkins said.

As with last year, the UDV will share the study tour on social media, with a blog and a Facebook page to document the participants’ journey.

  • Kerrilyn Bassett – farm assistant and Certificate III Agriculture student from Kyabram;
  • Hayden Hanratty – farm manager and Certificate IV Agriculture student from Foster;
  • Jason Bermingham – farm owner and Certificate IV Agriculture student from Nambrok;
  • Sarah Saxton – extension officer from Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme (ADHIS); Frankston Sth
  • Aaron Thomas – share farmer and Diploma in Agriculture student from Binginwarri, and;
  • William Ryan, Dumbalk – recent graduate from a Bachelor of Agriculture and Technologies degree. Will was selected to attend the tour last year but had to withdraw due to a family health issue. He reapplied for the tour and has again been selected.