GEA unveils DairyRobot milking system at Fieldays
New Zealand farmers get their first opportunity to experience the future of pasture-based dairy automation in action this week at the National Fieldays.
Milking sheds have since April been more colourful, says GEA, with its FIL Active teat conditioner packaged in ‘vibrant pink’ drums.
It’s a sign of the company’s support of the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation.
Marketing manager Sarah Buchanan says “breast cancer awareness is a natural fit with our teat and udder health, and allows people to show their support for those affected by cancer in choosing to buy a pink drum”.
“From a practical point of view, farmers choosing Active teat conditioner over other products are buying into a better teat care programme.”
FIL products are formulated inhouse and designed to restore teat health; they contain skincare ingredients more commonly used in high-quality cosmetics to hydrate, soften and soothe delicate human skin.
These include Allantoin, an active moisturiser with skin rejuvenation properties; aloe vera, a moisturising agent rich in antioxidants and minerals essential for restoring the condition of stressed teats; and manuka honey that aids skin regeneration, repairs cellular damage and helps keep skin hydrated.
All products are certified for use in organic dairies.
“Farmer response to GEA’s FIL ‘Think Pink’ campaign has been incredibly positive,” says Buchanan.
Sheep and beef farmers are urging the Government to do more to stop productive farmland overrun by pine trees.
Auckland’s Eventfinda Stadium saw New Zealand’s top butchers recognized at the National Butchery Awards.
According to the latest Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Stock Number Survey, sheep numbers have fallen by 1% while beef cattle numbers rose by 4.4%.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand says it is seeing strong farmer interest in its newly launched nProve Beef genetics tool, with early feedback and usage insights confirming its value in helping farmers make better breeding decisions and drive genetic improvement in New Zealand's beef herd.
The Innovation Awards at June's National Fieldays showcased several new ideas, alongside previous entries that had reached commercial reality.
To assist the flower industry in reducing waste and drive up demand, Wonky Box has partnered with Burwood to create Wonky Flowers.