With the new year well and truly under way, the WestVic Dairy team is already busy, committed to turning the strategic plan and annual operating plan into reality for the remainder of the financial year.
WestVic Dairy’s efforts are steered by valuable insights from our farming community, with a particular focus on navigating the challenges of the current dry conditions.
I, like most, am starting to assess what pasture renovation will be required on my farm and reviewing feed requirements for the autumn.
To support farmers with pasture and feed management decisions, WestVic Dairy will host three Review and Renew workshops across the region — in the east, central and west — to discuss strategies for bridging feed gaps and sustaining milk production through the autumn and winter months.
These workshops will be held in February and provide an opportunity to hear from experts and discuss autumn feed and fertiliser selections with other farmers, ensuring you can choose the best options for your farm’s profitability.
This will be followed up later in autumn with the ever-popular Feeding Pastures for Profit course.
With calving under way at my own farm, I plan to have some of my team attend the Rearing Healthy Calves workshops being held in the region.
Delivered by WestVic Dairy extension adviser Debbie Twiss, attendees leave the workshops with knowledge and skills they can apply to rear calves from birth to weaning.
I will be attending Grounds for Growth in March and hope to see some of you there.
This Australian soil and pasture biodiversity event hosted by Dairy Australia is a first.
Grounds for Growth will feature an impressive line-up of local and international speakers.
I will be attending to gain insights from experts into understanding soil health and pasture management options for my farming system.
As always you can find out about upcoming events in the region and sign up to receive a fortnightly newsletter at westvicdairy.com.au
There has already been lots of events and workshops available in the region, and as you can see there are more to come.
The WestVic Dairy team is committed to supporting the region’s farmers, driven by a shared purpose to help you succeed.
We are here to listen and collaborate, ensuring you receive the support necessary for achieving profitable and sustainable outcomes.
Please feel free to reach out to any of the WestVic Dairy team or board. You can email the office at info@westvicdairy.com.au or call the office on 5557 1000.
Your wellbeing and success are our priority.
Wishing those of you with autumn calving the best of luck! Let’s make the best of challenging circumstances and aim for a productive year.
– Brendan Rea is the WestVic Dairy chair.