Maximum Production

In this episode, we explore how young people can buildconfidence, skills, and connections in the dairy industry with Lucy Riley. From her first youth camp through to judging competitions and developing a pedigree breeding program, Lucy shares the experiences and people that have shaped herjourney in the Holstein-Friesian world.

The conversation follows Lucy’s path from calf club tothe show ring. She reflects on learning to lead, clip, and present cattle, the animals that inspired her, and the mentors who helped her grow. Along the way, she explains how judging competitions have sharpened her eye for cow type,balance, and structure—and how she’s balancing school, sport, and life on her family’s dairy farm with her ambitions for the future.

Listeners will hear why youth camps can be a turningpoint, offering more than practical experience: they can build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging. Lucy also shares her goals for developing her own pedigree line and continuing to contribute to the industry.

Whether you’re a young farmer, a dairy show enthusiast, ajudge in training, or simply interested in the next generation of the Holstein-Friesian industry, this episode offers an inspiring look at what can grow from getting involved, asking questions, and giving new opportunities a go.

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In this episode, we explore the art and discipline ofpreparing cattle for the show ring with experienced fitter and exhibitor Luke Gilbert. From animal selection and feeding programmes through to clipping, training, transport, and ring-day presentation, Luke shares the practical knowledge and attention to detail needed to consistently produce competitive show animals.

The conversation covers every stage of the preparationprocess. Luke discusses how to identify heifers with strong show potential, develop young stock into confident leaders, and follow a structured timeline leading into competition. He also explains why starting preparation at least six weeks before a show is important and outlines feeding strategies that help build condition, maintain health, and achieve the desired show-ring appearance.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the finer detailsof cattle fitting, including pre-clipping, washing routines, udder preparation, blending techniques, and managing milkers before competition. We also discuss transporting cattle long distances, helping them settle quickly at shows, and the importance of bedding, water, exercise, and feed management throughout an event.

Whether you're preparing your first yearlings, fitting experienced milkers, or looking to improve your show-ring results, this episode offers practical advice and real-world experience from someone who has spent years learning from industry leaders and refining his craft. It is a valuable listen for dairy exhibitors, young fitters, and anyone committed to presenting cattle at their very best.

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In this episode, we explore how precision livestock technology is transforming herd management with John Allen and Melinda Little from smaXtec. We discuss how real-time animal data is helping dairy farmers make faster, more informed decisions around animal health, mating, and overallherd performance.

The conversation highlights the practical application of smaXtec in-cow bolus technology, which monitors key indicators including temperature, rumination, water intake, heat stress, and pre-calving activity. We also examine how live data is being used to improve mating outcomes, detect healthissues earlier, and support a more proactive approach to herd management.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how precisiondata can be integrated into everyday farm operations, from identifying the ideal insemination window and managing replacement heifers to reducing somatic cell counts and responding to environmental challenges such as heat stress.

Whether you're interested in improving reproductiveperformance, enhancing animal wellbeing, or exploring the future of dairy technology, this episode offers practical experience and real-world perspectives on how data-driven decision-making can help maximise the potential of your herd.

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In this episode, we focus on Member's Bull Picks and the thinking behind sire selection in today’s dairy systems with Wayne Taylor. We explore the key criteria breeders use when selecting bulls, including production, type, functionality, and long-term herd performance.

The discussion highlights how strategic mating decisions and the use of genomics are shaping breeding programmes, along with the growing role of beef genetics within dairy herds.Listeners will also gain practical insights into aligning bull teams with farm system goals and managing genetic progress over time.

Whether you’re refining your breeding strategy or just starting out, this episode offers valuable advice and real-world perspectives to help you make informed decisions and maximise the potential of your herd.

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In this episode, we explore the history and impact of the SEMEX on Farm competition with experts David Mayo and Ryan Lett. We delve into the origins of the competition, its growth over the years, and its significance inthe dairy industry.

Listeners will gain insights into the judging process, thelogistics involved, and the competition's role in promoting high-quality cattle. David and Ryan share their experiences and discuss the competition's influence on breeders and judges alike.

Whether you're interested in the evolution of dairycompetitions or looking to understand the intricacies of cattle judging, this episode offers valuable, firsthand perspectives on the SEMEX on Farm Challenge.

In this episode, we delve into innovative calf rearing techniques with experts Brett Fitzhenry and Eile Van Der Gaast, focusing on maximizing genetic potential and sustainable practices.

We explore strategies for early nutrition, including the role of milk replacers and the importance of balanced feeding. Brett and Eile share insights into research-driven methods, the impact of early organ development, and how to ensure calves reach their full potential.

Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on optimizing calf nutrition, improving growth rates, and exploring sustainable farming practices. Whether you're looking to enhance your current methods or plan for the future, this episode offers practical, research-based advice to support effective calf rearing.

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In this episode, we dive into the essential guidelines for end‑of‑season drying off with Rob Brazendale, an expert in pasture management and cow conditioning.

We explore decision‑making strategies around drying off, including pasture covers and residuals, the use of supplementary feed, and how to maintain cows at ideal body condition scores. Rob shares practical insights into winter grazing strategies, feed budgeting, and how to transition cows successfully through the dry period and into calving.

Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on optimising pasture management, improving feeding strategies for condition gain, and exploring the role of new pasture species and winter crops. Whether you’re approaching drying off now or planning ahead, this episode offers practical, experience‑based advice to support confident on‑farm decision making.

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New Zealand’s Agribusiness Advisors - Farm Consultancy - Perrin Ag

In this episode, we speak with Stacey Hendriks, a passionatescientist at Dairy New Zealand whose work sits at the intersection of animal science and cutting‑edge wearable technology. Stacey’s diverse research background — combined with her drive for innovation — brings a fresh, practical perspective to how digital tools can elevate modern dairy farming.

We explore the rapidly evolving world of wearables, fromcollars and ear tags to advanced monitoring systems designed to support smarter decision‑making. Stacey breaks down how these technologies boost labourefficiency, pick up on undetected heat events, improve reproductive outcomes, and empower farmers to take proactive steps based on real‑time data.

The conversation also dives into the challenges aroundeconomic measurement, interpreting farm KPIs, and the initiatives Dairy New Zealand is leading to support ongoing research and farmer education.

Whether you're considering investing in wearables, wantingto fine‑tune farm management, or curious about how digital tools are reshaping dairy’s future, this episode delivers practical insights, expert context, and aclear look at how wearables are transforming on‑farm performance.

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In this episode, we sit down with Selwyn Donald, a well‑known stock agent and auctioneer with Link Livestock, whose lifelong involvement in both the farming and selling sides of the dairy industry gives him a unique perspective on what makes a successful cattle sale. Selwyn shares how hisbackground shaped his career, and the insights he’s gained from working with farmers across the country.

We explore what farmers should be thinking about whenplanning a sale — including the timing, format, and choosing the right selling platform — along with how to select animals, market their strengths, and present them in ways that resonate with buyers. Selwyn also discusses the valueof accurate records and 3GP data, and the growing role of online and hybrid options in today’s marketplace.

Whether you’re preparing for your first sale, looking torefine your approach, or simply interested in the process behind showcasing quality dairy cattle, this episode offers practical guidance, industry context, and a clear look at the preparation and teamwork involved in achieving strongresults.

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In this episode, we delve into the world of dairy judging with Brian Carscadden, a renowned figure in the Holstein Friesian community.

Brian shares his extensive experience from over 20 years of judging, having travelled to more than 35 countries and judged at prestigious events like the Royal Winter Fair and World Dairy Expo.

We explore the unique aspects of dairy events in New Zealand, the evolving standards in cattle judging, and the balance between show ring success and practical farming. Brian also discusses the importance of mentorship in the judging community and offers insights into the future of dairy cattle shows.

Whether you're a breeder, judge, or simply passionate about dairy farming, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the strategies, challenges, and innovations shaping the global dairy judging landscape

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