The program, which was spearheaded by the Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council with support from Fonterra, mentors young farmers looking to expand their career in dairy.
Running over three days, the group took part in a series of workshops led by a range of industry stalwarts, covering topics including different operating and financial structures, how to progress their career through to farm ownership, and the importance of looking after your mental health.
They also headed off to Gippsland to visit a few farms and Fonterra’s Darnum site.
Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council chair John Dalton said the dairy industry had evolved in recent years and farm businesses had become larger.
“There are many opportunities for young people interested in dairy and who want to have a successful career,” he said.
“We wanted to create a program that recognised and supported the next generation of dairy entrants and inspired them to build a successful career in dairy.”
Cohuna's Jai Heap participated in the program, hoping to learn how to be a better leader.
“I got a pathway into dairy farming through my parents and grandparents, did a certification through school then came home on the farm full-time about three years ago,” he said.
“Best thing about my job is being able to work as a team and work alongside my family.”
To round off the program, the young dairy farmers wined and dined with leading industry figures from Dairy Australia, UDV, Australian Dairy Farmers and Fonterra.
Australian Dairy Farmers president Terry Richardson praised the participants’ desire to understand, learn and engage with others across the industry.
“It’s a great demonstration of the industry giving back to the next generation of dairy farmers, this is what’s needed to help grow and support our industry to grow,” he said.
The program was inspired by Fonterra’s Proud to be a Chef program, which has been running since 1996 and supports young apprentice chefs.
Fonterra Australia managing director René Dedoncker said Fonterra was pleased to be able to support the Fonterra Australia Suppliers’ Council to get this up and running.
“We’re incredibly proud to be part of a program that celebrates the young people in our industry, our future leaders, and the future of what is great about dairy,” he said.
