NEW approaches to agronomy and nutrition, as well as genetics and managing people will be among the topics shared at the 16th annual DairySA Innovation Day to be held in Mount Gambier in June.
DairySA extension officer Bec Walmsley said the focus of ‘People, Pastures, Pathways’ is the result of a collaborative approach between DairySA and South East dairyfarmers.
“Like all agricultural industries, it’s important that dairyfarmers keep up to date with the latest advances in their industry,” said Ms Walmsley.
“Whether it’s the latest innovations in breeding and pasture and their effect on profitability at the farm gate, managing people – our greatest asset – in our dairy businesses, or looking at opportunities for life beyond dairy, this conference will give delegates the opportunity to hear new ideas, observations and pathways for their dairy future.”
A key feature of this year’s conference will be the inclusion of a panel-led discussion of dairy industry peers, each of whom have been selected for their unique dairy journey experiences.
“We often get comments from farmers that one of the most valuable insights to be gained from this conference is hearing from their peers and gaining insights into the challenges they’ve faced – whether it be around people, building equity, changing farm ownership structures, or life after farming,” Ms Walmsley said.
Delegates will also have the opportunity to participate in two concurrent sessions with the keynote speakers, allowing a greater depth and understanding of the topic, covering the areas of ‘Forage of the Future’, ‘Find them, Keep them’ and ‘Genomics-the new frontier’.
“Each of our presenters have valuable insights into fields such as pasture, people practices and animal breeding,” Ms Walmsley said.
Also included in the program will be a ‘state of the industry’ snapshot by Dairy Australia’s managing director Ian Halliday, and a DairySA Update on the latest activities and local levy investments by chairman Michael Connor.
The dinner will showcase the Young Dairy Network SA, a committed group of young dairy farmers who are passionate about the dairy industry and who have recently begun the ‘Next Gen Challenge’ - a tangible process of gaining skills and experience matching their ambition within a chosen topic.
“We encourage everyone in the dairy industry to immerse themselves in this conference, be challenged, and draw inspiration from their peers,” Ms Walmsley said.
The DairySA Innovation Day 2018 will be held on Thursday, June 7 from 9.30am at The Barn, Mount Gambier.
- Details: To register head to Eventbrite https://2018-dsa-innovationday.eventbrite.com.au/
