The Gardiner Dairy Foundation and United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) are delighted to announce the successful six applicants who have been selected to take part in the 2017 New Zealand Study Tour.
The selected candidates represent the key dairying regions of Victoria and demonstrate diverse leadership talent from the Victorian dairy industry. The successful 2017 applicants are:
- Alistair Harris, Larpent, South West Victoria
- Lauren Peterson, Boorcan, South West Victoria
- Janelle Fisher, Irrewillipe, South West Victoria
- Evan Campbell, Yannathan, Gippsland
- Denise Jones, Stony Creek, Gippsland
- Nick Minogue, Katandra, Northern Victoria
The selected participants will undertake an eight-day tour in early February 2017, visiting some of the world’s leading dairy and processing facilities in the South Island of New Zealand, showcasing the research, processing techniques and technology available across the Tasman.
Gardiner Dairy Foundation Chief Executive, Mary Harney, is pleased to see such strong interest in the program this year and is particularly impressed with the quality and quantity of applicants received.“The 2017 New Zealand study tour has attracted a record number of applicants this year, which is a tribute to the success and the prestige of the program to the dairying community over its seven-year duration.
“It is incredible to see such a vibrant group of young leaders. They are eager to learn more about dairy farming in New Zealand and willing to share their knowledge for the benefit of dairy farming in their local communities,” said Mary Harney.
One of 2017’s successful candidates, Janelle Fisher from Irrelwillipe near Warrnambool, is looking forward to learning more about the support measures available to the New Zealand dairy farmers and how they deal with social licence issues.
“I am really interested to see what support the industry gives to and receives from dairy farmers operating in New Zealand. Dairy can be a challenging environment and I think it is important to work together to move to a more united industry,” said Janelle Fisher.
The study tour kicks off from the 5 –13 February 2017 and all participants will have the opportunity to further develop and advance their professional skills through their involvement in the tour.