In 2024, Twenty-five young dairy farmers from across Australia gathered for the fourth annual Proud to be a Dairy Farmer program in early March. Spearheaded by the Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council (FASC), the program is run by farmers, for farmers, and aims to showcase career pathways available within the dairy industry.
Proud to be a Dairy Farmer provided dairy farm employees with the opportunity to appreciate the many benefits the industry provides and the career possibilities on offer. The program covered a broad range of relevant topics, with guest speakers, a formal dinner and a day dedicated to farm and plant visits.
Over three days, participants were immersed in all that dairy has to offer, visiting two dairy farms to see firsthand examples of farmers thinking outside of the box. A new partnership with the Gardiner Foundation allowed the program to expand by an additional day.
FASC Director and Gippsland dairy farmer, Dean Turner, who led this year’s program, said the goal was to get participants out of their comfort zone to embrace new thinking, build industry knowledge, and support future careers.
“Our goal is to spark a greater interest in the industry to keep young workers in it long-term. Thanks to Gardiner, we’ve been able to create a longer and richer experience,” Dean said
 Matyka Walpole |
Northern Victorian farmer Matyka Walpole said the program helped to build her confidence and network across the industry.
“I live and work with my family and don’t often get the chance to see what other farms are doing. The program has helped with my confidence and meeting new people. It’s been so easy to get along with everyone because we’re all talking about the same thing,” Matyka said. |
To learn more about the program visit: Proud to be a Dairy Farmer