Tune in to our latest episode with Taranaki farmers Craig Lynskey and Kieran Bourke as they share their journey transitioning from spring to autumn calving and the strategic advantages of this approach. The team discuss how increasing mild winters and challenging summer droughts pushed them toward this strategic shift. "Our growth rates through summer are often in single digits, yet consistently 40-45 in most winters," Kieran explains, highlighting the fundamental mismatch between traditional calving patterns and weather conditions.
 
 Craig and Kieran’s systems now capitalize on the autumn flush and strong winter growth, with cows reaching peak production precisely when high-quality feed becomes abundant. Both system 4 operations with feed pads and storage facilities. The results speak for themselves, with Kieran's Holstein herd averaging an impressive 650-670 kgMS/cow despite high stocking rates.
 
 The team dig into the practical aspects of their transition, from staggered calving dates starting in early March to grazing management strategies that maintain higher residuals through winter. Their advice for farmers considering similar transitions is clear: ensure you have a suitable climate, proper infrastructure, and systems to maintain feed quality year-round. The winter milk premium is "just the cherry on top" – the real value lies in aligning production with your farm's natural growth patterns in a changing climate. 

Introducing Matt and Wade's Rural Roadie! A 3-week caravan tour travelling rural New Zealand starting March 17 in the Waikato ending in Timaru on April 4. Matt Dalley and Wade Bell, our Farm Systems Specialists and Feed for Thought podcast hosts are cutting tracks through the country, hosting on-farm events, podcasts, RP evenings and more, offering farmers, growers, contractors, consultants, and rural professionals a chance to gain valuable insights into the profitable use of maize silage and the efficiencies in farm feeding systems. 

Head to, www.pioneer.co.nz/matt-and-wades-rural-roadie or Google 'Matt and Wade's Rural Roadie' to find out more about where they're heading and the events taking place along the way.

Field Operations Manager, Duncan Grant, shares his decade-long journey from field technician to leading the field operations in Gisborne. Discover the strategies and challenges of coordinating contract growers to maintain seed purity and manage cross-pollination risks. Learn from Duncan's insights the dynamic planning needed to tackle logistical hurdles presented by unpredictable weather conditions to produce some of New Zealand's highest quality seed.  

In our first episode of the year, Logan Dawson, 2024 Waikato Share Farmer of the Year (alongside wife, Sian Dawson), joins Wade and Matt to share his farming journey to managing an 880-cow share milking business in the Waikato. 

The team explores Logan and Sian’s system, examining how split calving and precise diets boost milk production. Logan explains balancing pasture and supplements to achieve high production metrics while keeping operations simple. They also discuss the financial strategies and technological advancements behind their on-farm success.

Logan explains how his custom feeding tools and data analysis optimise feeding levels, leading to high profits per hectare.

Join us for a thought-provoking episode filled with practical insights and forward-thinking approaches.

In our last episode for the year, Matt and Wade are thrilled to be joined by a familiar face and former Feed for Thought host, Ian Williams. Ian's travels to the US earlier this year brought him face-to-face with exceptional farming practices and an unforgettable salmon fishing trip guided by a former scientist. With Ian's vivid storytelling, you'll hear about the shared dedication and adaptations of farmers worldwide and chuckle at some light-hearted chatter about theories that arose along the way. Switching gears, the team also dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI and technology and Ian’s predictions on how technology will shape the future of farming. 

In this episode, the team unpack the intricacies of managing one of Australia’s largest feedlot operations with special guest, Ben Carrigan, the General Manager of Commodities, Farms, and Transport at Mort & Co. Australia.  You’ll gain insights into the complex feed composition and innovative practices that set Mort & Co. apart. Ben takes us through their diversified business model that includes not only feed lotting and branded beef but also Mort & Co’s approach to turning effluent into granulated fertiliser, boosting soil health and creating new market opportunities.
 
With sustainable practices at the forefront Ben sheds light on the adjustments in cattle diets and procurement processes essential for maintaining their high standards. From their ambitious Predictor Plus program aimed at optimising herd management and reducing emissions to their commitment to significant carbon footprint reductions by 2030, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on balancing animal welfare, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

With a rich family history in dairy farming, Michael Phillips and Andrew Evans (Bubbles) join Matt and Wade to discuss the strategy behind cows, comfort and compost at Dannevirke-based dairy farming operation, Waka Dairies.  

Michael and Bubbles discuss the strategic shifts made as part of Waka Dairies' succession plan, with leadership and team culture, and infrastructure improvements at the core. The team delve into the impact of composting shelters and how this infrastructure has impacted day-to-day operations, animal health, feed efficiency, and environmental footprint. With a robust system, including effluent ponds and water storage, the farm stands resilient against local climate conditions. Tune in to hear firsthand how these changes have set new benchmarks in farm productivity.

Simon Nitschke, the Arable Farmer of the Year, Maize Farmer of the Year, and National Pioneer Yield Cup winner, joins Matt and Wade to discuss the strategy and success of Rangitikei enterprise, Arable Solutions. 
 
This episode explores supply and demand management, particularly for maize grain. We discuss the impact of market fluctuations, the importance of forward planning, and how collaboration with end users can be a game-changer. Efficiency and sustainability are at the core of this conversation as the team discusses the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

With a passion for dairy farming, Logan Scott, Te Awamutu East and South Waikato Area Manager and small block owner brings a unique perspective on land and crop management, maize and agronomy.  This episode delves into Logan’s agronomy knowledge, sharing strategies for identifying potential issues and guiding effective management decisions, particularly through the critical V3 to V6 growth stages of maize. Join the team in this engaging discussion, which offers practical insights for improved crop outcomes. 

Rural Professional of the Year and Senior Lecturer in Agribusiness and Management at Lincoln University, Dan Smith, joins Wade and Matt on this episode to share his strategies for nurturing future-ready students. You'll hear about his dynamic approach to equipping students with timeless skills covering the key competencies for young agricultural professionals to succeed in the rapidly evolving industry. 

Dan shares the initiatives that Lincoln University is taking to develop and prepare students for the workforce. The conversation delves into the importance of soft skills, the rapid technological advancements in agriculture, and the importance of developing skills and knowledge beyond the reach of artificial intelligence. 

Whether you’re passionate about traditional farming, a rural profession, or entrepreneurial ventures, Dan's insights will motivate and inform you about the boundless potential and diverse career opportunities within the agriculture sector.