Keynote speakers lined up
SIDE 2024 organisers have secured some key speakers for the event. Here are four of the keynote speakers:
Organisers of the South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) 2024 say it was a ‘roaring success’, with over 400 attendees.
SIDE held its 25th event at Lincoln University in Canterbury last month.
Event committee chair of SIDE 2024, Jonathon Hoets says the event is not just about sharing knowledge; it’s about fostering innovation and pushing boundaries.
“The dairy industry is constantly evolving and events like this are crucial in helping farmers adapt to change.”
One of the highlights of SIDE 2024 was the participation of BrightSIDE attendees. Abby Rawcliffe, the BrightSIDE coordinator, emphasised that young attendees play a vital role in shaping the future of the dairy sector.
“Empowering our youth to take on roles within the industry is essential for its longevity,” says Rawcliffe.
“BrightSIDE provides a platform for students and young farmers to ignite curiosity and ambition among young individuals in the industry, connect with experienced professionals, and learn some hands-on skills.”
The conference featured a lineup of keynote speakers, including former Australian SAS medic Dan Pronk, Jeremy Hill, Fonterra, farmer Siobhan O’Malley, and economist Cameron Bagrie. Attendees also enjoyed a field trip to Ashley Dene and Lincoln University Research Farms, and informative sessions with workshops and panels covering a wide range of topics.
Holstein Friesian excellence was front and centre at the 2025 Holstein Friesian NZ (HFNZ) Awards, held recently in Invercargill.
The work Fonterra has done with Ballance Agri-Nutrients Ltd, LIC and Ravensdown to save farmers time through better data connections has been recognised with a national award.
This past week has seen another round of negotiations between India and New Zealand to produce a free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
Cautiously optimistic is how DairyNZ's regional manager for the lower North Island, Mark Laurence describes the mood of farmers in his patch.
The Infrastructure Commission has endorsed a plan by Chorus to expand fibre broadband to 95% of New Zealand much to the delight of rural women.
Questions are being raised about just how good the state of the dairy industry is - especially given that the average farmgate payout for the coming season is set to exceed $10/kgMS.
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