Shows
Talking DairyResilient Pastures: The new research underway to future-proof our grass-fed advantage | Ep. 104In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re talking about pasture – the foundation of New Zealand farming.Farmers in the upper North Island have been noticing changes for a while now: pastures that don’t last as long, more pests, and weather that’s harder to predict. These challenges are backed up by DairyNZ data that shows pasture growth in Northland and Waikato has dropped by up to one tonne of dry matter per hectare each decade.To help solve this problem, a new sector-wide research initiative led by DairyNZ was launched in June 2025 - called R...2025-07-2220 min
Talking DairyWearables and repro – what the data tells us | Ep. 103More farmers are investing in wearable technology to help manage heat detection and ease pressure on skilled people during a busy time on-farm. But do these devices improve reproductive performance – an important factor regularly considered in return on investment calculations? In this episode, Jac McGowan speaks with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards and CowSmart vet and co-founder Line Ferriman. Together, they break down new independent research that compares reproduction results from herds using wearables and those that don’t.The study shows farmers using wearable tech are adopting new mating approaches like extended or all-A...2025-07-0825 min
Talking DairyBuilding a high-performing farm team | Ep. 102In this episode of Talking Dairy, we cover strategies that help create high-performing dairy teams. You’ll hear from Jane Muir, DairyNZ Senior People Specialist, and Fiona Langford, who, along with her husband Thomas, are the 2025 Share Farmers of the Year at the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. They share how great leadership, clear communication, and smart planning make all the difference on-farm.Fiona shares how they run their year-round operation with multiple employees, and how they focus on culture, wellbeing and development to keep their people happy and productive. Jane brings insights from the latest DairyNZ Em...2025-06-2431 minTalking DairyBuilding a high BW herd - one decision at a time | Ep. 101What does it take to breed a high performing herd - now and into the future?Earlier this year, DairyNZ and Fonterra co-hosted a series of on-farm events focused on lifting genetic gain through better breeding decisions. One of those events was held at Clovalley Farms, run by Donovan Croot and Sophie Cookson in South Taranaki. Now, we’re bringing that conversation to you.In this episode of Talking Dairy, hosted by DairyNZ Taranaki Area Manager Talissa Squire, Donovan and Sophie share how they’ve built a herd that ranks in the top 1% nationally for Bree...2025-06-1036 minTalking DairyBuilt different: Why NZ farmers keep winning at dairy | Ep. 100Ever wondered how New Zealand dairy became world-class? In this special 100th episode, we go behind the scenes of the science and farmer-led innovation that made it happen. Join host Jac McGowan as she chats with DairyNZ’s Chief Science Advisor Bruce Thorrold and Chief Executive Campbell Parker. Together, they look back at the science, smarts, and farmer-led research that helped turn a tough industry into a global success.You’ll learn how NZ dairy farmers went from milking on average 147 cows in the ‘80s to becoming the most efficient milk producers in the world. More im...2025-05-2734 min
Talking DairyGlobal shifts, local insights – Farmers' Forum preview | Ep. 99Are you ready to ride the global economic rollercoaster - and come out stronger?In this episode of Talking Dairy, you’ll hear from two of New Zealand’s top economists, Brad Olsen and Cameron Bagrie. They’ll break down what’s happening in global trade and explain what it means for your dairy farm.From rising tensions between the US and China, to big changes in shipping, and Fonterra’s next moves - this is the stuff that shapes your business.You’ll find out how global politics are changing trade and why the worl...2025-05-1338 min
Talking DairyFinding your farming family | Ep. 98Wondering how to meet like-minded people or take the next step in your ag career? Want to feel part of something bigger than just your day-to-day job? You’re not alone - and there is a way to build your network, grow your skills, and find your place in the sector.In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re exploring the power of community and how NZ Young Farmers is helping young people in the ag sector feel supported, connected, and inspired.We’re joined by Waikato farmer Robin Buser, who made a move from corpor...2025-04-2923 minTalking DairyBreeding for the long game | Ep. 97When it comes to herd improvement, it’s easy to focus on high heritability traits like milk production and liveweight - where the gains are faster and more visible. But what about the traits that take time?In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan and Dr Rhiannon Hancock, a scientist at NZ Animal Evaluation, talk about why low heritability traits deserve a place in your breeding strategy – especially if you’re playing the long game.Rhiannon explains how even small genetic gains in these areas can build over time, leading to big wins for herd p...2025-04-1511 minTalking DairySmart dry-off strategies | Ep.96New Zealand dairy farmers are making great progress in reducing antibiotic use at dry-off - but how do we keep that momentum going? With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, selective dry cow therapy has become an important tool for protecting both herd health and the long-term effectiveness of antibiotics. The key is making smart, informed decisions that safeguard milk quality while keeping cows healthy.In this episode, we’re joined by Mitch Cooper, a Veterinarian and DairyNZ’s Senior Technical & Policy Advisor, and Veronica Oostveen, a Southland dairy farmer and DairyNZ Area Manager. They break down the late...2025-04-0132 minTalking Dairy$10 payout - now what? | Ep. 95It’s been a season of shifting gears. We started with high costs and cautious optimism, but as the months rolled on, things began looking up - better milk prices, easing interest rates, and a bit more breathing room financially. But what does that actually mean for your farm? And, more importantly, how can you make the most of it? In this episode of Talking Dairy, we take a close look at how the season has played out and what’s on the horizon. Mark Storey, Head of Economics at DairyNZ, and Paul Bird, Senior Business Specialist , break d...2025-03-1822 minTalking DairyOn the move: Reducing stress during transport | Ep. 94You put a lot of care into your cows, so it’s only natural to want the best for them - even when they leave the farm. But do you know what happens once they’re on the truck? And are you confident they’re set up for a smooth journey?In this episode, we’re talking about simple, practical ways to help your cull cows travel well. Dr. Stacey Hendriks and Penny Timmer-Arends share three key things that make a big difference. They also explain what happens beyond the farm gate and why good preparation matters. Tran...2025-03-0425 minTalking DairyExpert insights to grow productive farm workplaces and what to expect at the People Expos | Ep. 93Looking for fresh ideas to boost productivity on your farm? Want to build a strong, high-performing team without adding more hours to your day? The People Expo is back, packed with insights to help you create a farm workplace that runs smoothly and delivers results. In this episode of Talking Dairy, we talk to event partner Dairy Women’s Network CEO Jules Benton and leading economist and key speaker Shamubeel Eaqub. Jules shares what’s in store, why these expos are a must-attend for farmers who employ people, and how they can benefit your farm business. Shamubeel gives...2025-02-1819 minTalking DairyTech and data raising the bar on farm efficiency and production | Ep. 92Missed DairyNZ’s recent on-farm events about building a productive workplace for on-farm efficiency? This episode of Talking Dairy brings the highlights to you. Hosted by Central Waikato Area Manager Willie McKnight, this podcast replicates the insights and discussions shared during the events, making it easy to catch up if you couldn’t make along it to one.Willie is joined by Tauwhare sharemilker Gillian Bunnik and DairyNZ scientist Brian Dela Rue to explore how technology and data are transforming farm operations. Gillian shares their experience adopting technology on-farm, while Brian provides the latest insights from research and p...2025-02-0453 min
Talking DairySummer yarns: Contract milking 101 | Bonus episodeWelcome to the third and final Talking Dairy summer yarn. In this bonus episode, we revisit the Contract Milking 101 episode with ag consultant Brendon Attrill and contract milker Rachael Foy. In this moment, they discuss why understanding cows, compliance, and pasture management is crucial before starting contract milking. They also discuss how to negotiate contracts and assess financial viability. If you're already contract milking or intending to go sometime soon, find out how the DairyNZ Contract Milking Premium Calculator and Dairy Training’s free short courses including the Contract Milking course can help set you up for success....2025-01-2112 min
Talking DairySummer yarns: New milking frequency trends and the impact of OAD in early lactation | Bonus episodeWelcome to the second of our Talking Dairy summer yarns. In this bonus episode, we revisit the most downloaded episode of 2024 where Dr. Paul Edwards and Kent Weston-Arnold share fresh insights on new milking frequency trends and the rise of once-a-day milking in early lactation. They explain why more farmers are trying it, the regional differences, and the common reasons for this shift. You’ll also learn how it impacts farm operations and what to consider before trying once-a-day or flexible milking yourself. Listen to the full episode here: New milking frequency trends and the impact of OA...2025-01-0712 min
Talking DairySummer yarns: ‘Dairy farming saved my life’ | Bonus episodeWelcome to the first of our Talking Dairy summer yarns. In this bonus episode, we revisit a moment from the inspiring story of Emma Walton, a young contract milker from Waikato. Hear how dairy farming not only saved her life but also gave her purpose and strength. Emma shares her top strategies for coping with stress and why she thinks farming is more than just a job. Listen to the full episode here: 'Dairy farming saved my life' | DairyNZ Support resources and links:Rural Support Trust: Help an...2024-12-2211 minTalking DairyChoosing the right supplements for your situation | Ep. 91What’s your game plan when pasture growth slows down or a dry spell hits? Do you know which supplement will give you the best value for money? And how do you balance cost and risk when planning for the future? In this episode of Talking Dairy, DairyNZ’s Mark Williams, and Rakaia dairy farmer, Enda Hawe, discuss how to choose the right supplements for your circumstances. They cover the concept of marginal milk and how it can be used to ensure your feed strategy is financially sound. And they discuss the how to make the most of Da...2024-12-1031 minTalking DairyDairyNZ’s new Chair talks challenges, change, and the future of farming | Ep. 90In Episode 90 of Talking Dairy, we’re joined by Tracy Brown, the new Chair of DairyNZ.Tracy is a proud advocate for farmers and rural communities, bringing years of hands-on experience and leadership to the role.In this episode, Tracy shares her inspiring journey in the dairy sector and her vision for the future of New Zealand’s world-leading dairy sector. Hear how she plans to steer DairyNZ to deliver greater value for farmers.Read more about Tracy Brown, DairyNZ ChairHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talk...2024-11-2611 minTalking DairyHow to stop lameness in its tracks | Ep. 89Do we really know the cost of lameness? And more importantly, what can we do to stop it? In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan speaks with Winston Mason, a Veterinarian and Epidemiologist at EpiVets, and Frank Portegys, Senior Area Manager at DairyNZ for the King Country region. They cover the common causes of lameness, the direct and indirect costs, and effective strategies for reducing its impact. Find out what the early signs of lameness are and why quick action can make all the difference. Tools and resources:Identifying lame cows - DairyNZLameness...2024-11-1233 minTalking DairyDairy’s economic outlook and what it means for farmers | Ep. 88In this episode of Talking Dairy, we cover recent financial shifts that have farmers feeling cautiously optimistic. Over the past few seasons, dairy farmers have been grappling with high costs, increasing interest rates, and unexpected drops in milk price forecasts. But with improvements in the forecast milk price and the cost of borrowing starting to ease, could there be brighter times ahead?Joining us are Mark Storey, Head of Economics, and Mark Speight, Farm Systems Specialist at DairyNZ. They break down what these financial changes mean for your farm’s bottom line and discuss how farmers can ba...2024-10-2926 minTalking DairyA sharper focus to face the challenges of dairy farming | Ep. 87Campbell Parker has been leading DairyNZ for a year as Chief Executive. So, what’s his take on the state of New Zealand dairy? And what are his plans for the challenges dairy farmers face now and in the future?In episode 87 of Talking Dairy, Campbell shares how his commercial experience is helping him bring fresh ideas to DairyNZ. He talks about his first year leading the organisation, managing change, and working closely with farmers to make sure their voices are heard. From research and science to policy and advocacy, Campbell explains how DairyNZ is sharpening its fo...2024-10-1526 minTalking DairyMastering mastitis: Tips to tackle SCC and boost milk quality | Ep. 86In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re talking about one of the biggest challenges on farm – mastitis. What should you do if your herd test shows high somatic cell count (SCC) cows? How do you find and manage those “invisible” subclinical cases? Our guests, Mike Shallcrass, Fonterra’s Veterinary programme manager, and Jane Lacy-Hulbert, DairyNZ Senior scientist, discuss and share practical tips on monitoring, managing, and minimising mastitis. Tune in to hear expert advice and insights on how to prevent mastitis and improve milk quality. Mastitis management tools and resources:Mastitis...2024-10-0128 minTalking DairyGene tech and dairy farming – what’s next for NZ farmers | Ep. 85In Episode 85 of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan chats with Dr Bruce Thorrold, DairyNZ’s Chief Science Advisor, about gene technologies in relation to the dairy sector. With the New Zealand Government updating its laws on gene technology, Bruce explains what this could mean for farmers, from reducing environmental impact to increasing productivity. He also discusses the opportunities and risks, and shares the questions which are top of mind for dairy farmers as this topic comes back into focus. This episode provides a clear and balanced look at how gene technologies could shape the future of dairy farming in New Ze...2024-09-1720 minTalking DairyNew milking frequency trends and the impact of OAD in early lactation | Ep. 84What milking frequency trends are emerging across different regions? What factors are driving the adoption of once-a-day (OAD) milking in early lactation? And what are the pros and cons?In this episode of Talking Dairy, we’re joined by Dr. Paul Edwards, Senior Scientist and Kent Weston-Arnold, Area Manager for North-West Waikato, from DairyNZ. Find out about new insights on milking frequency and regional trends, plus hear about the experiences of some farmers who have been using OAD milking in early lactation this season. As calving season continues across the country, this discussion offers advice for...2024-09-0330 minTalking DairyWhat actions between calving and mating can improve in-calf rates? | Ep. 83How can your actions during calving impact success at mating? In this episode of Talking Dairy, we talk about reproduction and look at what actions during calving can impact success at mating time. We’re joined by Katrina Roberts, Herd Health Vet at Anexa Veterinary Services, InCalf training provider and the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year, and Rex Butterworth, a Waikato dairy farm owner and rural real estate agent. Katrina discusses the herd fertility cake concept and what the key ingredients are to focus on between calving and mating. Rex shares how applying these principles has improved his fa...2024-08-2023 minTalking DairyThriving after calving: Key cow care and recovery tips | Ep. 82In this episode of Talking Dairy, we cover the important topic of preventing down cows during the calving period and providing essential care and recovery for those that do go down. Join our host Jac McGowan and guest Mitch Cooper, a veterinarian and DairyNZ’s Senior Technical and Policy Advisor, as they talk about strategies, share insights and practical advice. Mitch, who brings a decade of experience as a dairy vet in Waikato, shares his expertise on prevention, early signs to look out for, and practical steps for treatment, care and recovery. More information:Dow...2024-08-0723 minTalking DairyFarm to boardroom: Cam Henderson on leading DairyNZ | Ep. 81On this episode of Talking Dairy by DairyNZ, we sit down with Cam Henderson, a dairy farmer and farmer-elected board member of DairyNZ. Cam shares his journey from the farm to the boardroom, revealing the challenges and rewards and offering practical advice for anyone considering applying for a role on the board this year at DairyNZ.If you're looking to make a meaningful impact on the future of the dairy sector, this episode is a must-listen. Nominations are now open, click here to find out more and apply: DairyNZ Directors ElectionHave feedback or ideas...2024-07-2418 minTalking DairyWhat cows prefer in winter | Ep. 80Welcome to Episode 80 of Talking Dairy. Winter can be challenging on dairy farms, and knowing what cows need during these cold, wet months is crucial for their health and productivity. In this episode, we are excited to have Dawn Dalley, a Senior Scientist at DairyNZ, sharing her wealth of experience and insights gained from over 15 years of research on managing cows in winter conditions.Dawn talks about the challenges cows face in wet winter conditions and the key findings from extensive research on paddock-based wintering. She covers essential topics like grazing direction, critical source area protection, having...2024-07-1023 minTalking DairyProgress on water quality: where are we at and where are we going? | Ep. 79In this episode of Talking Dairy, we dive into the topic of ongoing water quality improvement efforts by the dairy sector with Aslan Wright-Stow, Senior Manager - Science at DairyNZ. Aslan shares valuable insights on the sectors’ commitments, the progress made, measured benefits and the scientific advancements that are improving water quality management and decision making. Links:Sustainable Dairying: Water AccordWaterbodies and wetlandsTalking Dairy Ep 73: Monitoring waterway healthTalking Dairy Ep 71: Water quality research updateCatchment group supportHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us...2024-06-2627 minTalking DairyDairyBase celebrates 20-year milestone | Ep. 78How do you benchmark your farm systems and performance within the sector? DairyBase enables you to better understand your farm system and its performance, by comparing KPIs (key performance indicators) and determining what is working well, then identifying opportunities for improvement. 20% of New Zealand farms contribute to DairyBase which offers two types of benchmarking – the business’s financial performance and the farm’s physical aspects, and compares them to industry standards or targets. Joining us for this episode to discuss everything DairyBase is DairyNZ DairyBase operations manager Jodie Goudswaard and dairy farmer Therese Earls.Notes:If...2024-06-1117 minTalking DairyKeeping a spring in your step | Ep. 77Injuries are commonplace on farm, ACC shares that 40% of farm injuries are from a sprain or strain and most of these occur between August to October, aligning with spring calving for a lot of farmers. In this episode we talk to DairyNZ Senior Scientist Dr Callum Eastwood and QCONZ CEO Chris Leach about a joint project between ACC and DairyNZ. Callum and Chris share the learnings from the project on reducing sprains and strains on farm, and what innovations have been developed to make jobs easier and safer over the calving season. Notes:Reducing S...2024-05-2827 minTalking DairyAnimal care consults | Ep. 76Animals are at the heart of every farming business. To support the sector in achieving high levels of animal welfare, DairyNZ has been interviewing farmers about their animal care practices for over a decade now. Join us as DairyNZ Lead Advisor Animal Care Penny Timmer-Arends and Animal Care Consult Contractor Hannah Fulton, talk to how the information from the consult is used to track changes in practice, inform extension activities and future research, and enlighten submissions to government when advocating for practical, outcome-based rules.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co...2024-05-1623 minTalking DairyChoosing the best genetics for your herd | Ep. 75When it comes to breeding more efficient cows, why is genetic gain so important and how can NZAEL’s online tools help? Join us as we talk to Rhiannon Handcock DairyNZ’s NZAEL scientist and dairy farmer Michelle Burgess, about the latest in dairy genetics and animal evaluation. NotesNZAEL is the industry good organisation for genetics and animal evaluation. As a wholly owned subsidiary of DairyNZ, NZAEL operates independently to ensure that farmers' interests are represented, striving for world-leading genetic gain that make our national herd resilient, profitable, and globally competitive. Find out more...2024-04-3027 minTalking DairyAn economic update: a year in review and new season forecasts | Ep. 74When it comes to budgeting on farm and forecasting spend, how do others do this? Join us as we talk to Mark Storey DairyNZ’s Head of Economics and Louise Collingwood – a South Waikato farmer, about the latest economic insights and newly updated DairyNZ Econ Tracker tool.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn2024-04-1919 minTalking DairyMonitoring waterway health | Ep. 73When it comes to monitoring waterway health, what makes up a holistic assessment of stream health?In this episode, we talk to DairyNZ Principal Scientist Dr. Craig Depree, who shares his approach on ecosystem health and what environmental factors influence freshwater management. Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn2024-04-0323 minTalking DairyWater quality research update | Ep. 71When it comes to improving water quality, what does best practice look like? And how do you invest in long-term solutions to meet changing regional regulations? Join us as we talk to DairyNZ Senior Water Quality Scientist Dr Katrina Macintosh and AgResearch Senior Scientist Dr Richard Muirhead about DairyNZ’s key research initiatives and how these projects can provide solutions to improve water quality.NotesInside Dairy October-November 2023 (referenced at 6.37)Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz Follow DairyNZ on socials for the lat...2024-03-0522 minTalking DairyGiving Surfing for Farmers a go | Ep. 69How do you take a break from the farm? This summer farmers across the country, of all ages and stages, are hitting the beach to head along to Surfing for Farmers sessions. DairyNZ is proud to come on board as Surfing for Farmers “Grassroots partner” to support farmers coming together off-farm to catch up, have fun and boost their health and wellbeing. We’re talking to Southland dairy farmers Rob Black and Katrina Thomas to share more about what Surfing for Farmers is all about. Rob tells us why he keeps coming back for more, and Katrina a Surfing for Farme...2024-01-2318 minTalking DairyNZAEL new fertility trait update | Ep. 68DairyNZ’s subsidiary NZAEL (New Zealand Animal Evaluation Limited) has recently made a new fertility trait update – in this episode we’ll discuss what this change will mean and how it will benefit farmers. Our guests are Ee Cheng Ooi from Abacus Bio, vet and geneticist who worked with NZAEL to develop the new fertility estimated breeding value, NZAEL quantitative geneticist, Melissa Stephen, who recently completed her PhD on early-in-life predictors of an animal’s genetic merit for fertility, and Hayden Lawrence, South Taranaki dairy farmer, who shares the impact a more accurate Breeding Value will have on his farm bus...2023-12-1819 minTalking DairySummer dry planning and management | Ep. 67With NIWA’s prediction of an El Nino weather pattern and a high likelihood of a drier summer, how are farmers preparing? In today’s episode, we’re talking to dairy farmer Trevor Hamilton, who has dairy farm operations across the North and South Islands, and Kevin McKinley, DairyNZ regional partner in the Bay of Plenty. Trevor and Kevin will share their strategies for preparing for a dry summer including how to manage cow condition and pasture quality.More information:Summer managementSummer management plan templateHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email u...2023-11-3025 minTalking DairyImproving workplace productivity | Ep. 66Having more productive dairy workplaces can save hours, shorten the working day, and create more attractive workplaces. But what exactly is workplace productivity and how can we measure it? What practices and technologies are farmers using, and are they effective at improving productivity? DairyNZ’s Senior Scientist, Callum Eastwood and Research Engineer, Brian Dela Rue have been researching practices and technologies used to improve the productivity and efficiency of our dairy farm workplaces. In this episode they will share the findings of two recent studies on workplace productivity and farm tech adoption and give some practical advice on how to...2023-11-1521 minTalking DairyThe low-down on deferred grazing | Ep. 64Many farmers are looking for ways to get better value from their pasture, get through NIWA’s predicted El Niño summer, and control on-farm costs. Could deferred grazing provide a solution for some farmers? In this episode, you’ll get the low-down on this cheap and flexible form of pasture conservation. Our guests are DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Wendy Griffiths and Waikato farmer Ian Butler, who’s used deferred grazing on his farm. Ian is also a DairyNZ Extension Partner in the Waikato. Wendy and Ian will explain what deferred grazing is and when to use it, its...2023-10-1716 minTalking DairyReducing nitrogen losses in Canterbury | Ep. 63Canterbury sharemilker Glenn Jones joins us to talk about the options he’s used to reduce nitrogen losses on-farm. He discusses how successful it’s been, the challenges he’s faced along the way, what he’s learned, and his advice for other farmers. Glenn was one of the partner farmers in a DairyNZ project set up to help dairy farmers in the Selwyn catchment reduce their nitrogen losses by 30%, while maintaining profitability. NotesSelwyn and Hinds - Meeting a Sustainable Future - DairyNZ Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at tal...2023-10-0216 minTalking Dairy'Dairy farming saved my life' | Ep. 62To coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re sharing the powerful story of Emma Walton, a young Waikato contract milker. Emma not only loves dairy farming, but says it saved her life. Find out why farming has been the key to her recovery, why she’s passionate about lifting mental wellbeing in the rural sector, how she copes with stress on the farm, her ambitions, and more. NotesRural Support Trust: Help and support for rural NZ (rural-support.org.nz)0800 787 254Home - Farmstrong - Live Well Farm Well...2023-09-1927 minTalking DairyTaking the strain out of farming | Ep. 61What do saloon doors and exosuits have to do with reducing injuries on dairy farms? They’re among a range of practical ideas DairyNZ is trialling to help farmers avoid sprains and strains, particularly around calving time. Hear about the designs and prototypes, including a new easy-entry calf trailer and a flexible breast rail, from DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Callum Eastwood and Waikato dairy farmer Marcus Graham.NotesThis project has been made possible through $900,000 of co-funding by ACC’s Workplace Injury Prevention programme, supported by a $150,000 investment by dairy farmers thro...2023-09-0616 minTalking DairyMethane research update from Lye Farm | Ep. 60How do we reduce methane emissions from cattle within our pasture-based farming system? And when will farmers have solutions ready to use on-farm? In this episode, recorded at DairyNZ’s Lye Farm, you’ll hear about the options being tested by our scientists, including feeding methane inhibitors to calves from birth. DairyNZ principal scientist Dr Jane Kay and technical team leader Olivia Jordan take us on a walk around Lye Farm’s world-class research facilities, explain when you might start seeing solutions, and discuss other methane research being done across the sector.Show notes2023-08-2921 minTalking DairyGetting the most from your fert spend | Ep. 59With farm business viability top of mind and soils still very wet around the country, what are some steps you can take to make sure you’re spending your fertiliser dollar wisely? In this episode, hear solid advice from two legends of the fert industry: Dr Ants Roberts, chief scientist at Ravensdown, and Warwick Catto, science strategy manager at Ballance Agri-Nutrients Ltd. They discuss trends in fertiliser use, whether you can afford to skip soil testing, the best time to apply nitrogen fertiliser and in what quantity, herbage tests, sulphur and lime use, placement tools, effluent spreading, specific strategies fo...2023-08-1632 minTalking DairyBank’s advice for herd-owning sharemilkers | Ep. 58What are the main things to consider before approaching the bank for backing to go into herd-owning sharemilking? Sian Mitchell, ANZ agri manager, explains how to get yourself into as strong a position as possible to secure the bank’s support. She also covers the loan approval process, how and why the bank takes security over the cows, GST loans, loan structures, coping with profit ups and downs, and more. NotesSharemilking and contract milking arrangements - DairyNZBudgeting tools - DairyNZBuy Contracts (fedfarm.org.nz)Business by the Numbers - Dairy Tr...2023-08-0223 minTalking DairySucceeding in herd-owning sharemilking | Ep. 57Is herd-owning sharemilking in your sights? Already in a HOSM partnership? In this episode, pick up some fresh ideas for both farm owner and sharemilker on how to succeed in this popular business structure. Our guests are Waikato sharemilker Rachel Bunnik and Dairy Farms NZ CEO Craig McBeth, who discuss what they like about the agreement, how the financials work, common challenges, keeping the relationship sweet, doing your due diligence, and much more. Show notesSharemilking and contract milking arrangements - DairyNZBudgeting tools - DairyNZBuy Contracts (fedfarm...2023-07-1828 minTalking DairyWet weather management | Ep. 56Rain, rain, rain. How are other dairy farmers managing their way through this exceptionally wet winter? Hear from Hauraki Plains farm owner John Garrett, Cambridge farm owner Marc Gascoigne, and Northland herd owning sharemilker Carl MacDonald, who explain how they're trying to minimise soil damage while still adequately feeding the cows. They discuss round lengths, cow comfort, team morale, mental health, lessons from previous wet winters, and more. NotesWet weather management - DairyNZSpring Rotation Planner - DairyNZRural Support Trust: Help and support for rural NZ...2023-07-0638 minTalking DairyLive from Fieldays: How do I make my job offer more attractive? | Ep. 53In today’s tight labour market, we need to ensure our dairy farm assistant jobs are attractive and competitive – but how? In this episode, find out about DairyNZ’s new tools to help farm employers know if their job role 'meets the market' and what factors could be tweaked to create a bigger pool of applicants. Our guests are DairyNZ’s Geoff Taylor and Pouarua Farms CEO Jenna Smith.Useful linksKnow the Market project - DairyNZJob competitiveness calculator - DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talki...2023-06-2115 minTalking DairyLive from Fieldays: Striking the balance – mental health and wellbeing | Ep. 55Our guests Matte Kirk and Kelly Dickey share their thoughts on mental wellness in the rural sector. Are farmers getting better at talking about how they’re feeling? Why is getting off the farm so important? How do Matte (former dairy farmer, Pioneer area manager) and Kelly (sharemilker, Rural Support Trust facilitator) stay in top form? The pair also talk about the great work of Surfing For Farmers, which they both help to run in Raglan, on Waikato's west coast. LinksWhere to get help - DairyNZ Surfing for FarmersFarmer wellbeing...2023-06-2120 minTalking DairyPlanting – do it once, do it right | Ep. 52Our guests on this episode are Morrinsville farmer Johan van Ras, planting professional Antony Snodgrass, and DairyNZ’s Aslan Wright-Stow, Senior Manager – Environment. Hear their perspectives on how to successfully undertake a planting project on the farm, including some common mistakes to avoid, tips on prep and maintenance, what we can learn from science and research, and what benefits (some unexpected) you’re likely to see. ShownotesPlanting waterways - DairyNZDairyNZ Riparian Planner - DairyNZNative Planting Services - Koroneiki DevelopmentsWaikato environment award winners...2023-06-0638 minTalking DairyMental health: ‘Don’t be afraid to open up’ | Ep. 51Overwhelmed by workload pressure, self-doubt and a fear of what others expected of him, fifth generation farmer Sam Spencer-Bower stopped being able to function. It took six months before his wife – and Sir John Kirwan – helped convince him to get help. In this episode, Sam kindly joins us to share his mental health journey: the underlying causes, learning to talk about it, the road to recovery, and the skills he’s developed to cope with the stresses of the job, so he can keep on enjoying dairy farming. NotesWhere to get help...2023-05-2316 minTalking DairyPlantain proving its worth | Ep. 50Rotorua farm owner Steve Holdem joins us to share his experience with Ecotain plantain: what’s worked well, what he and wife Paula have learned about maintaining it, and how it’s saving them from reducing their stocking numbers. Also on the podcast is DairyNZ’s Kate Fransen, who’ll give a clear overview of what a decade’s research has taught us about plantain. New results show even better than expected leaching reductions can be achieved. NotesPlantain - DairyNZDairyNZ Podcast: 'Plantain for production and environmental wins | Ep. 20'Inside...2023-05-1035 minTalking DairyBreeding Worth – how do we know it’s really working? | Ep. 49It’s difficult to see the benefit of genetic gain in a herd from one season to the next. When you see an improvement in farm performance, how do you know that's a result of better genetics? How can you be confident that breeding for genetic gain actually works?Hear DairyNZ's Bruce Thorrold discuss learnings from the Holstein-Friesian Strain Trial. He also talks through the value of genomics and high-quality data, strengthening the fertility Breeding Worth, keeping up with our overseas competitors, and more. NotesAnimal Evaluation - DairyNZA...2023-04-2619 minTalking DairyBetter science solutions for Kiwi dairy farms | Ep. 48For many of the biggest challenges facing Kiwi dairy farmers, the answers lie in solid, farm-tested research. So, what are the big focus areas for DairyNZ’s science team right now? What work is underway to give farmers the tools they need? And how do our scientists ensure new solutions are actually going to work well on-farm? DairyNZ’s Bruce Thorrold and Bridget Maclean join us to answer those questions, as well as explaining who’s in the science team at DairyNZ, their proudest research achievements, and what research projects they’re most excited about.Notes2023-04-1223 min