Traveling at 95 kilometers per hour on a jet boat in Queenstown may not seem like your typical professional development activity – but for Gippsland dairy farmer Miranda Knight, it was a thrilling end to her eight-day New Zealand study tour.
“It was my first time overseas and seeing New Zealand’s leadership in dairy firsthand deepened my understanding of the industry. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from others who work in dairy,” Miranda said.
Miranda, along with eleven other dairy professionals, participated in the 2024 Gardiner Foundation New Zealand Study Tour to enhance their industry knowledge and leadership skills. This tour was just one of many professional development activities Miranda has engaged in since starting at Ken and Jill Lawrence’s Jindivick dairy farm in 2017.
“After high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but growing up around dairy, I decided to give it a try. I soon realised that dairy farming is more than just milking cows—it’s about working outdoors with animals, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it,” Miranda explained.
Ken and Jill have been pivotal in Miranda’s professional growth. “They’ve been incredibly supportive, allowing me to take days off for TAFE and providing numerous opportunities for courses and study tours. The training is structured for working professionals, so I can directly apply what I learn on the farm,” Miranda said. “Ken is a strong advocate for both on-farm and off-farm education.”
Miranda has been actively involved in various farm tasks, including artificial insemination (AI), calf rearing, general herd health and pasture management. She has completed several GippsDairy short courses, including first aid, rearing healthy calves and career progression programs. These courses have significantly enhanced her ability to contribute to the farm’s operations and adopt new practices.
Ken, who has been farming in Gippsland for over 30 years, said it’s important to support the next generation of dairy farmers.
“The key to professional development is a genuine desire to improve. Miranda has taken the initiative to complete Cert III and IV and participate in trips with GippsDairy and Gardiner. Supporting her growth benefits both her and our farm.”
Ken believes that having a clear career path is crucial for those looking to advance.
“There are diverse goals within the industry. Not everyone wants to move towards business ownership, but it’s important to provide tools and training for those who do,” he said.
“My own journey involved moving from an employee sharefarmer to buying a farm independently of family connections, not everyone has that generational farming background, and that doesn’t necessarily reflect a person’s skills or opportunities.”
“The drive needs to be there, no matter what background you come from, and that’s why courses and training resources are so essential to the industry.”
Another component of professional development is learning from others. Miranda also participates in discussion groups facilitated by Ag-Challenge Consulting and GippsDairy, where she learns from other farmers and industry experts. These groups offer valuable insights into animal and financial management and foster a sense of community and shared learning.
“Learning from different people and their experiences has been invaluable. These networks will be important as I develop my career moving forward,” Miranda said.
At 25 years old, Miranda Knight exemplifies how dedication and continuous learning can pave the way for a successful career in dairy farming. Her journey highlights the supportive environment and abundant opportunities for professional development within the industry.
Ken sees Miranda’s progress as a testament to the benefits of investing in professional development. “If it fits what’s being done on the farm, then it’s a green light. Supporting her career advancement is a win-win. If it means she’s going places, I’ve done my job,” he said.
Miranda and her partner, who joined the farm two years ago, have been collaborating closely with Ken and a few relief workers. The team dynamic is one of mutual support and collaboration. Recently, they completed their AI certificates and have been implementing these new skills on the farm.
Miranda’s commitment to her career is also evident in her personal investments. She and her partner have purchased land and built an investment property in Warragul. They have invested in heifers and are expanding their herd on Ken’s farm. Looking ahead, Miranda is considering pursuing a Diploma in Agribusiness.
Professional development is crucial on a dairy farm as it enhances workers’ skills and knowledge, leading to better farm operations and productivity. Continuous learning through training opportunities enables workers like Miranda to implement innovative practices, contribute effectively to the farm’s success, and prepare for future leadership roles in the industry.