What’s it like coming into the dairy sector with no experience? How can farm employers make it a softer landing for newbies and increase our chances of them succeeding and remaining in farming? What can we learn from seeing dairy farming through the eyes of a new employee? 

Step on up John Gibson, who’s in his second season and has just taken on a 2IC role in Te Pahu, west of Hamilton. Hear John's story of leaving behind Government and retail work in Wellington for a new career in dairy farming. You’ll hear the good, the bad and the funny, as well as why he decided to make the lifestyle change. He shares his views on how we can make it a smoother transition for other newcomers.

Notes
Recruitment - DairyNZ
GoDairy - DairyNZ

Chapters
1.33 – John’s non-farming background
2.33 – Persuaded to go dairy farming
3.55 – First impressions, early mistakes, ‘farm common sense’
7.37 – Discovering a love for farming
9.03 – Biggest challenges: physical demands, new lifestyle, internet
12.04 – Why he stayed
14.59 – Thoughts on rural internet connectivity
16.53 – Another ‘newbie’ moment
18.18 – Goals, upskilling, working towards herd ownership
20.17 – Advice for farm employers
23.19 – Advice for people starting out in dairy farming 

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected]

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