In this episode, Sheryl Haitana speaks to Dan and Gina Duncan, former Share Farmers of the Year, sharing their journey from valuation to dairy farming. They discuss scaling their business and managing debt wisely. The couple highlight the value of consistent systems, cost control, and investing in herd quality. They offer advice to young farmers on embracing responsibility and taking a long-term approach to growth and financial sustainability.

 

Guests:

• Dan and Gina Duncan, Share milkers, Waikato

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Dan and Gina Duncan are successful sharemilkers and former Share Farmers of the Year, known for their strategic approach to scaling farm operations and building equity. With backgrounds in valuation and a passion for agriculture, they transitioned into dairy farming and have since managed multiple farms while raising a young family.

In this conversation, Dan and Gina share their journey through the early challenges of farm ownership, including periods of financial strain and personal sacrifice. They emphasise the value of surrounding themselves with experienced mentors and the importance of clear financial goals, consistent systems, and cost control. The couple view debt as a positive tool when managed wisely and credit family support as a key factor in their success.

They discuss practical strategies such as minimising supplement use, budgeting for dry seasons, and investing in herd quality. Equipment and technology decisions are made based on return on investment rather than appearances. 

Dan and Gina encourage young farmers to embrace responsibility, seek growth, and take a long-term view of farm development and financial sustainability.

 

Read more about Dan and Gina’s journey here.

 

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This episode highlights insights from industry leaders driving sustainability in dairy farming. Malcolm Ellis, Fonterra’s Strategic Advisor, discusses improving animal productivity to reduce emissions, introducing the Co-operative Difference payment. Scott Townshend, CEO of Trev, explains how data and feed conversion efficiency help farmers boost profitability while reducing input costs. Simon Le Heron, CEO of Canterbury Grasslands, shares how standardising systems across his large-scale, pasture-based operation optimises land use and feed conversion. 

Together, these experts show how innovation, technology, and efficiency are essential to achieving both environmental and financial gains in New Zealand’s dairy industry.

 

Guests:

1. Malcolm Ellis, Strategic Advisor, Fonterra
2. Scott Townshend, CEO, Trev
3. Simon Le Heron, CEO, Canterbury Grasslands

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Malcolm Ellis is Fonterra’s Strategic Advisor and a key figure in the co-operative’s efforts to reduce emissions intensity across its dairy supply chain. With a strong background in pastoral farming and on farm productivity, he plays a central role in aligning Fonterra’s sustainability goals with practical opportunities for farmers.

In this interview, Malcolm introduces Fonterra’s new Co-operative Difference payment, offering an additional one to five cents per kilogram of milk solids for meeting emissions efficiency benchmarks. He explains how this incentive is directly linked to animal productivity and overall farm efficiency, forming part of a wider emissions intensity reduction strategy launched in November 2023.

He highlights a 165kgMS gap between the top and bottom quartile cows – representing a 42% production efficiency opportunity and a potential 16% methane reduction. Rather than reducing cow numbers, he stresses the importance of lifting animal efficiency through improved fertility, feed conversion and genetic selection.

Malcolm also discusses the role of tools like Trev and the Farm Insights Report in helping farmers track progress and unlock both environmental and financial gains.

 

Scott Townshend, CEO of Trev, a digital farm reporting platform helping New Zealand farmers make better, data-driven decisions across their systems. With growing pressure to produce lower-emissions milk, Scott emphasises that improving efficiency, rather than chasing emissions targets in isolation, is the smarter, more sustainable path.

In this interview, he explains how feed conversion efficiency (FCE) is a practical, easy-to-understand metric that links productivity, profitability, and sustainability. Scott shares that farms using Trev have achieved an average annual lift of 4.6kgMS per tonne of drymatter, equating to around $90,000 in added revenue and a likely drop in input costs.

He highlights how real-time data enables farmers to act in-season rather than retrospectively, improving decision-making on feed use, mob management, and culling. Regional benchmarking within Trev also allows users to see how they stack up against peers, encouraging knowledge sharing without judgment.

Ultimately, Scott sees Trev as a support tool – empowering farmers to refine their systems and continue leading the world in efficient, sustainable dairy production.

 

Simon Le Heron, CEO of Canterbury Grasslands, a large-scale dairy business milking 24,000 cows across Waikato, Canterbury, and Southland. With a focus on pasture-based, low-cost systems, Simon believes simplicity, consistency and discipline are key to long-term profitability.

In this interview, he explains how a standardised approach – what he calls a “McDonald’s menu” – allows the business to train staff effectively and maintain performance across multiple regions. Weekly pasture walks, wedge tracking via Agrinet, and consistent measurement of comparative stocking rate help maximise grass harvested per hectare, while minimising supplementary inputs.

Comparative stocking rate is their most important metric, with a target in the low- to mid-80s seen as the sweet spot for feed and financial efficiency. While individual cow data is becoming more valuable, the business remains focused on optimising land use and feed conversion.

Simon sees promise in data and technology, particularly with over 20 years of pasture growth records. As environmental limits tighten, he encourages farmers to find efficiency gains that benefit both the bottom line and compliance, helping keep New Zealand dairy globally competitive.

 

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This episode showcases some of the highlights from the South Island Dairy Event  (SIDE) 2025, held in Timaru in April. Jason Archer of Beef + Lamb NZ explains how beef genetics boost the value and sustainability of dairy-origin calves. Rebecca Furzeland shares insights from her large-scale calf rearing business focused on quality, health, and teamwork. Ryan Luckman draws on data from cow wearables on 100,000+ cows to share learnings you can apply to your farm system. Rosanne Megaw shares her and husband Eldon’s journey from contract milking to equity partnership and Glenn Jones wraps with reflections on SIDE 2025 and shares what’s coming for next year.

 

Guests:

1. Jason Archer, Head of Genetics, Beef + Lamb NZ
2. Rebecca Furzeland, Calf Rearer
3. Ryan Luckman, CEO, Agvisory.NZ
4. Rosanne Megaw, Dairy Farm Owner
5. Glenn Jones, Governance Group Chair, SIDE

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

With a background in animal genetics and innovation, Jason Archer is Head of Genetics at Beef + Lamb New Zealand, where he leads efforts to lift the value of dairy-origin calves through better use of beef genetics. Around 1.8 million surplus calves are born annually in New Zealand’s dairy sector, many with limited value or market potential. Jason highlights how countries like Ireland have successfully reduced bobby calf numbers by focusing on calf quality and introducing rearing standards that incentivise better breeding decisions.

Beef-on-dairy calves not only offer improved value for finishers but also have a lower carbon footprint, as emissions are partially allocated to milk production.  Jason’s work through the Dairy Beef Progeny Test has supported the development of a new beef-on-dairy index and the nProve.nz platform. He advocates for using recorded genetics to improve calving ease, growth, and carcass traits, helping to align dairy and beef systems more effectively.

 

Rebecca Furzeland runs a specialist calf rearing and grazing operation with her husband Andrew near Methven, Canterbury. Since starting in 2013 with just 100 calves, they now rear around 3,000–3,500 annually across owned and leased land. Rebecca explains their dedicated approach, with a strong focus on quality, nutrition, rumen development, and health—particularly during transition periods.

Early engagement with dairy farmers is key. The Furzelands prioritise dam vaccinations, colostrum management, and FPT testing to ensure calves have strong passive immunity. Selection criteria include weight, health status, and vigour. They maintain detailed records and track performance by breed to identify trends and improve outcomes.

Challenges include biosecurity, rising costs, and ensuring year-round supply. Rebecca highlights the growing collaboration with dairy farmers around beef genetics and the increasing demand for breeds like Charolais. She’s committed to data-driven improvements and applying global insights to enhance New Zealand systems.

 

With a reputation for translating data into practical on-farm change, Ryan Luckman is known for his expertise in wearable technologies and their application in modern dairy systems. Speaking at SIDE, he drew on five years of large-scale data collected from over 100,000 cows to share insights that go far beyond just wearable users. His key message: success is driven by consistent 1% improvements, not silver bullets.

Ryan highlighted several practical areas where data has shifted advice—from the critical importance of calving second-lactation cows at a BCS of 5.5, to optimising transition feeding by meeting energy targets. He shared new thinking around heat detection, short gestation use, phantom scanning, and energy management using milk protein levels.

Together with farmer case studies, Ryan’s insights form a valuable checklist for performance review—helping farmers align management with proven data-driven outcomes.

 

Speaking at SIDE, Rosanne Megaw shared their journey—from contract milking to entering an equity partnership—all underpinned by a 589% increase in equity over just seven years.

Rather than focusing solely on spreadsheets and budgets, Rosanne emphasised four core drivers of their success: strong relationships, attention to detail, flexibility, and self-worth. Their approach blends disciplined financial management with a belief-driven mindset—asking “why not us?” and building wealth through property, managed funds, and other investments alongside farming.

The Megaws’ story offers more than inspiration—it’s a practical roadmap for progression, showing that with the right mindset and strategy, the path to ownership remains open and achievable.

 

Glenn Jones, Chair of this year’s SIDE committee, led a successful shift in both timing and location—bringing the conference to Timaru in April. The new format gave farmers the chance to step off farm during a quieter period and engage in practical, in-depth sessions. A key innovation was the streamlined workshop structure: just two workshops per day, each repeated, allowing for richer discussions and greater accessibility.

Highlights included Emma Twigg’s keynote on resilience and teamwork, Dr Alan Ford’s energetic session on leadership and productivity, and farmer-led workshops tackling mastitis and financial planning. The Mcgaws’ story of achieving farm ownership through “financial hygiene” particularly resonated.

BrightSIDE was also a standout, inspiring younger attendees with real stories from young farmers forging their own paths. For Glenn, the event’s value lies in connection and continual learning—reminding attendees that success is built through community, curiosity, and consistent effort. SIDE returns to Lincoln in 2026.

 

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In this episode, DairyNZ scientist Dr Kirsty Verhoek explains how heat stress affects cow comfort and productivity, and how the Grazing Heat Load Index (GHLI) improves on traditional measures like the Temperature Humidity Index. Dr Paul Edwards discusses how GHLI, combined with digital technologies, helps farmers identify regional heat stress risks and take timely action. Dr Roshean Woods introduces a new bulk milk urea (BMU) tool that provides near real-time insights into dietary nitrogen surplus, helping farmers optimise herd health and reduce nitrogen loss. Together, they highlight how these tools support farm resilience and sustainability in a changing climate.

 

Guests:

1. Kirsty Verhoek, Senior Scientist, DairyNZ
2. Paul Edwards, Science Lead, DairyNZ
3. Roshean Woods, Senior Scientist, DairyNZ

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

With a background in ruminant nutrition and greenhouse gas emissions, Dr Kirsty Verhoek is a senior scientist at DairyNZ, where she leads research into cow comfort and the impacts of heat stress in New Zealand’s pasture-based systems. Kirsty explains how heat stress occurs when cows can’t offload excess heat, resulting in behaviour changes, reduced feed intake, and lower milk production.

She outlines how international indices like the Temperature Humidity Index (THI) fall short in NZ conditions, prompting the development of the Grazing Heat Load Index (GHLI), which incorporates solar radiation and wind speed. Kirsty also shares how digital technologies, such as rumen boluses and collar sensors, are enabling better detection of heat stress indicators like respiration rate.

Kirsty emphasises the complexity of managing heat stress across diverse regional climates and the importance of tailored, farmer-led approaches. Through DairyNZ’s Enhanced Animal Care programme, she is working closely with farmers to co-develop practical strategies that prioritise cow wellbeing and support long-term farm resilience.

 

With over 15 years at DairyNZ, Dr Paul Edwards specialises in farm systems research, focusing on heat stress risk for dairy cows. He discusses how his recent work, alongside Dr Kirsty Verhoek, uses digital technologies and climate data to predict heat stress through the Grazing Heat Load Index (GHLI), which forecasts cow respiration rates based on weather conditions. This allows farmers to implement timely mitigations.

Paul highlights the regional differences in heat stress risk, with areas like Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Canterbury most affected, and the importance of tailored solutions. He also explains his research on how cows use shade, using data from wearable sensors and LiDAR technology to better understand cow behaviour and inform farm infrastructure design.

Paul emphasises that heat stress is an immediate concern, and his research provides farmers with practical, science-based strategies to improve cow wellbeing and resilience to climate change.

 

With years of experience in ruminant nutrition and environmental science, Dr Roshean Woods is a senior scientist at DairyNZ, where she leads research into nitrogen management and sustainability in New Zealand’s pasture-based dairy systems. Roshean explains the significance of bulk milk urea (BMU) as an indicator of dietary nitrogen surplus, highlighting how it can help farmers monitor herd health and optimise nutrient efficiency.

She outlines the recent development of a BMU indicator tool, designed to provide near real-time data to support farm management decisions. This tool helps farmers identify when there is a greater risk of nitrogen excretion and offers practical guidelines for mitigating environmental impacts, such as reducing nitrogen loss to waterways.

Roshean emphasises the complexity of nitrogen management in New Zealand’s diverse farming systems, and how the BMU tool fits alongside other strategies to improve farm efficiency, boost productivity, and protect the environment.

 

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In this episode, Sam Mander, director of AgriIntel, walks listeners through the New Zealand’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), giving a 101 on the scheme and outlining its opportunities for farmers. He discusses carbon credits, forestry models, and earning NZUs, including how to earn NZU’s from agroforestry and riparian planting. Sam highlights the financial and environmental benefits of understanding the ETS and how it can help farmers navigate the future of low-emissions agriculture. Anne Lee also recently attended SIDE where she spoke to Cameron Bagrie about American President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs and how economic stability will look heading into the future.

 

Guest:

1. Sam Mander, Director, Agri Intel
2. Cameron Bagrie, Lead Economist, Bagrie Economics

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Sam Mander, director of AgriIntel, explores the intricacies of New Zealand’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and its potential benefits for farmers. He outlines how carbon credits and sustainable practices such as agroforestry and riparian planting can provide financial rewards while benefiting the environment. Sam emphasises the importance of understanding carbon pricing and eligibility for NZUs, outlining how they could be used in a strategic, long-term approach in farming. He highlights the challenges of navigating the ETS, but believes farmers can unlock significant opportunities by staying informed. Sam stresses that careful planning, informed decision-making, and the right support are essential to maximising the financial and environmental advantages of the ETS.

 

Cameron Bagrie, Lead Economist at Bagrie Economics, explores what he calls the tectonic shifts in the factors underpinning economies and the way global trade is being influenced by issues now deemed to be related to national security. He focuses on how these changes impact the dairy industry, productivity challenges and currency fluctuations. Cameron emphasizes the importance of strategic adjustments in trade policy and economic performance to navigate the ever changing economic landscape.

 

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In this episode, David Jensen, a dairy farmer and kiwifruit grower, shares his experience transitioning to kiwifruit cultivation. He discusses challenges like labour shortages, investment costs, and the evolving kiwifruit market, as well as the impact of political policies on agriculture. David highlights the importance of understanding farming dynamics and key factors for successful diversification, including strategic investments and staying informed on market trends.

 

Guests include:

1. David Jensen, Kiwifruit Orchard Owner

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

David Jensen, a dairy farmer and kiwifruit grower, discusses the shift from dairy farming to kiwifruit cultivation in New Zealand. He explores the challenges of labour shortages, high investment costs, and the fluctuating dynamics of the kiwifruit market. While dairy farming remains a viable option, Jensen highlights the growing appeal of diversification in agriculture. He identifies the hurdles farmers face in transitioning to new crops, such as understanding market trends and securing the right investments. Jensen advocates for a strategic approach to diversification, stressing the importance of staying informed about the agricultural sector and aligning business decisions with both market opportunities and policy changes. He believes that successful diversification relies on thoughtful planning, investment, and support from the right financial and governmental structures.

Listen to the episode on solar HERE

 

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In this episode, we explore a shift from traditional dairy to innovative crops in New Zealand agriculture. Lee Matheson, Managing Director of Perrin Ag, discusses the challenges and opportunities of land use change, focusing on crops like hemp and chestnuts. Gavin Tayles, COO of FarmRight, shares insights on their transition to high-value horticulture, particularly large-scale apple orchards. Red Martin, General Manager of Pipfruit at FarmRight, talks about modern growing systems and new apple varieties. Together, they highlight how strategic investment, advanced technology, and sustainable practices are reshaping the agricultural landscape in New Zealand.

 

Guests include:

1. Lee Matheson, Managing Director, Perrin Ag
2. Gavin Tayles, Chief Operating Officer, FarmRight
3. Red Martin, General Manager of Pipfruit, FarmRight

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Lee Matheson, Managing Director of Perrin Ag, leads discussions on land use change in New Zealand agriculture, balancing profitability, diversification, and sustainability. While dairy remains viable, emissions targets push farmers toward alternatives. Matheson identified challenges in scaling new crops like hemp and blueberries, from infrastructure gaps to market uncertainty. Now, he works to bridge these barriers, advocating for investment, bank lending, and co-operative collaboration. He stresses urgent action to align land use with climate goals, seeing innovation as key to a sustainable, profitable future—provided the right policies and financial support are in place.

Gavin Tayles, COO of FarmRight, is leading New Zealand’s shift from dairy to high-value horticulture. While dairy remains vital, climate change and sustainability demands drive diversification. Since 2018, he has expanded FarmRight into apples, kiwifruit, and hops, transforming 250 hectares of dairy land into a large-scale apple orchard for the NZ Superfund. Tayles navigates challenges like upfront costs and environmental risks through strategic investment and technology. With plans for 900,000 trees, the orchard will be NZ’s largest pipfruit site. He believes smart investment and policy can ensure a profitable, sustainable agricultural future.

Red Martin, GM of Pipfruit at FarmRight, is transforming Canterbury’s apple industry, overseeing one of New Zealand’s largest pipfruit operations. With decades of expertise, he leads orchard development and modern growing systems. FarmRight’s 250-hectare, fully netted orchard will house 900,000 trees, producing 1.47 million cartons annually. Using the V trellis system and high-yield varieties like Rocket and Jole, Martin maximises efficiency. He navigates financial hurdles, including costly proprietary variety licenses. The shift from dairy to apples will cut carbon emissions by 81%, nitrogen losses by 82%, and water use by 40%, ensuring a more sustainable future.

 

Listen to the first five episodes of Agraforum’s newest podcast series, Where Inches Matter, here

 

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In this episode we explore the transformative power of AI in the dairy industry. Waikato sharemilker Matthew Zonderop discusses how AI is revolutionising his dairy farm, from optimising herd genetics to improving decision-making in farm management. He shares his journey from scepticism to embracing AI, and how his venture, Perfect Cow Breeding Solutions, helps other farmers do the same. PhD student Mamehgol Yousefidashliboroun from the University of Canterbury joins to talk about her research into AI-powered chatbots for dairy farmers. She explains how these tools help manage information overload and preserve valuable farm knowledge, offering tailored insights and streamlining decision-making for better efficiency.

 

Guests include:

1. Matthew Zonderop, Waikato Sharemilker
2. Mamehgol Yousefidashliboroun, PHD Student, University of Canterbury

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Waikato sharemilker Matthew Zonderop is harnessing AI to transform his dairy operation, using it as a powerful tool for herd improvement, farm management, and decision-making. Initially sceptical, he discovered AI’s potential after it quickly corrected an error in his spreadsheet, leading him to explore its wider applications. Now, AI analyses his herd’s genetic data, optimising bull selection and accelerating genetic gains beyond traditional methods. By integrating AI into daily operations, Matthew has shifted from reactive to predictive decision-making, streamlining feed budgeting, paddock planning, and financial forecasting. His tailored AI model stores farm-specific data, providing instant, data-driven insights that enhance efficiency. Seeing the potential for broader impact, he founded Perfect Cow Breeding Solutions to help other farmers leverage AI for genetic and management improvements. While some may question AI’s limitations, Matthew believes the only constraint is imagination, viewing it as a game-changer for the dairy industry’s future.

PhD student Mamehgol Yousefidashliboroun from the University of Canterbury is researching how AI-powered chatbots can support dairy farmers in managing information overload. In collaboration with AgResearch, her work focuses on making AI tools both technically effective and user-friendly. Mamehgol highlights chatbots as intelligent assistants, helping farmers filter vast amounts of data to provide instant, tailored insights. These tools can also preserve decades of farm knowledge, ensuring valuable experience is not lost. By integrating AI, chatbots simplify decision-making, reducing the need to sift through endless reports and applications. Looking ahead, Mamehgol sees chatbots evolving to analyse images and videos, assisting with crop and livestock monitoring. She encourages farmers to engage with AI, as increased interaction improves chatbot recommendations. While AI will not replace human expertise, it can act as a powerful extension of farmers’ knowledge, combining intuition with data-driven insights to improve efficiency and sustainability.

Listen to the first five episodes of Agraforum’s newest podcast series, Where Inches Matter, here

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Farm succession is one of the toughest challenges for farming families, with many young farmers struggling through the process. Rural counselor Kathryn Wright discusses the emotional complexities of succession, strategies for managing family dynamics, and tips for approaching these crucial conversations. Sheryl Haitana also speaks with Sandy Van Den Heuvel, Director of BlackmanSpargo Rural Law, about the legal aspects of succession, highlighting who the stress often falls on and when. Additionally, Greytown farmer Hamish Hammond chats about the season in Wairarapa and the importance of water efficiency and the upgrade they’re doing to their irrigation. 

 

Guests include:

1. Kathryn Wright, Rural Counselor
2. Hamish Hammond, Wairarapa farmer
3. Sandy Van Den Heuvel, Director, BlackmanSpargo Rural Law

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Rural counselor Kathryn Wright shares insights on the emotional challenges of farm succession and the generational divide that makes these conversations difficult. While younger farmers often seek guidance, older generations can struggle to let go of control. Kathryn provides practical strategies for navigating these discussions, including the importance of timing, using “I” statements to reduce defensiveness, and bringing in an impartial perspective. She also highlights the mental toll of succession, identifying red flags for stress and burnout. Emphasising the need for balance, she urges farmers to prioritise their well-being and seek support when needed. With valuable advice on identity, control, and family dynamics, Kathryn’s guidance helps ensure that succession planning not only secures the farm’s future but also strengthens family relationships.

 

Dairy farmer Hamish Hammond, based in Grey Town in the Wairarapa, shares insights into his farm’s seasonal challenges and improvements. With a promising spring and timely Christmas rain, Hamish’s farm saw a boost in milk and grass production. However, weather variability remains a challenge, with dry periods and strong southerlies posing risks to both animals and crops in the region. Hamish talks about his irrigation system, which covers 150ha, and the significant infrastructure upgrade underway to improve water efficiency. The new system will automate water distribution, saving both time and labor costs, while also enabling better feed production. He highlights the importance of managing water carefully, especially with looming restrictions, and emphasises the need for good soil moisture monitoring. Despite the challenges, Hamish remains optimistic about the future, citing the benefits of both solid infrastructure and favorable weather conditions.

 

Legal expert Sandy Vanden Heuvel offers essential advice on the legal side of farm succession, focusing on the importance of early planning and the right structures to protect both the business and family dynamics. Sandy explains the differences between succession and estate plans, emphasising the risks of leaving things until after death, particularly with the Family Protection Act in play. She shares insights on common pitfalls, such as neglecting financial viability and failing to account for off-farm assets, and stresses the importance of clear, transparent communication with all family members. Sandy also advises younger generations to seek their own legal and financial counsel to ensure they’re fully informed when stepping into farm ownership. With practical tips on legal structures and the need for professional guidance, Sandy’s expertise helps ensure that succession planning is both legally sound and fair to all involved.

 

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In this episode, Sheryl Haitana interviews Braden Coates and Hayley Ireland, dairy farmers from South Waikato, who share their inspirational journey overcoming Braden’s life-changing rugby injury and journey to farm ownership. They discuss their resilience, teamwork, and commitment to sustainable farming, as well as their success in the Te Ara Miraka Excellence Programme. Additionally, Ben Davidson, veterinarian and CEO of Dairy Smart, talks about antibiotic stewardship and how AI is revolutionising mastitis detection. He highlights how this technology helps farmers reduce antibiotic use, improve herd health, and make more targeted treatment decisions.

 

Guests include:

1. Braden Coates & Hayley Ireland, South Waikato dairy farmers
2. Ben Davidson, CEO, Dairy Smart

Hosts:

1. Sheryl Haitana, Editor, Dairy Exporter
2. Anne Lee, Deputy Editor, Dairy Exporter

 

Braden Coates and Hayley Ireland, farmers from South Waikato, share their journey of overcoming adversity after Braden’s life-changing rugby accident, which left him with tetraplegia. Despite the challenges, the couple was able to achieve their goal of farm ownership on the 320-cow, system five farm with resilience, dedication and hard work as well as support from friends and family. Their story highlights the importance of community support and teamwork. Through perseverance and sustainable farming practices, Braden and Hayley have also achieved success, winning accolades in the Te Ara Miraka Excellence Programme. Their achievement reflects their commitment to high standards in milk quality, environmental practices, and operational efficiency. This powerful story of resilience showcases their strength in navigating life’s challenges and the importance of people.

Ben Davidson, veterinarian and CEO of Dairy Smart, discusses the growing importance of antibiotic stewardship in dairy farming and how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming mastitis detection. With antibiotic resistance becoming a global concern, Ben highlights the need for farmers to be more cautious with their antibiotic use. Dairy Smart’s innovative AI-driven milk culturing system helps farmers identify specific bacteria in real-time, allowing for more targeted treatment and reducing the reliance on prophylactic antibiotics. Ben emphasizes that by accurately diagnosing bacterial infections, farmers can prevent unnecessary antibiotic use, manage herd health more effectively, and reduce the spread of resistant bacteria. This technology not only empowers farmers to make better treatment decisions but also improves overall herd health, reducing antibiotic use and improving farm sustainability. Ben stresses the importance of collaboration between farmers and vets to ensure the right treatment at the right time.

 

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