Genetics, Efficiency and Performance: How the Burgesses are raising the bar at Te Poi
Bill and Michelle Burgess had an eye-opening realisation when they produced the same with fewer cows.
The Fonterra Co-operative Council member and Northland Dairy Development Trust trustee joins the DairyNZ board as associate director from June 1.
"I was over the moon to find out I had been chosen for the DairyNZ associate director role," Collins says.
"It will be a huge opportunity for me, and getting my feet under the table of a board like DairyNZ will be an invaluable experience."
Collins and wife Claire own a dairy farm in Dargaville, Northland, milking 140 cows. The couple's commitment to improving environmental outcomes was recognised with a Northland Ballance Farm Environment Award in 2024, along with an award nomination in this year's New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards.
DairyNZ associate directors are non-voting roles, appointed for a one-year term. The role supports emerging leaders and those currently contributing to the sector, by providing experience and support from the eight current DairyNZ board members, which can help in future governance roles and opportunities.
Fourteen other farmers have held the role since the initiative was introduced in 2013.
"After 20 years of milking cows I'm ready," says Collins.
"Things in our industry are constantly changing, and we need to be well-placed to deal with future challenges. That's why it's so important to have an organisation like DairyNZ at the forefront."
DairyNZ chair Tracy Brown says Collins' enthusiasm, experience, and interest in the sector will be an invaluable asset to the board.
"Greg has a deep commitment to sustainability and innovation, and a wealth of experience that will help bring a different perspective, and unique insight to our discussions," says Brown.
"It will be another busy year for DairyNZ, and Greg, as part of the DairyNZ board, will contribute to our important work of supporting New Zealand dairy farmers."
She thanked current associate director Jonathon Hoets for his work over the past year.
"Jonathon has made a considerable contribution during his time on the board, and we wish him well for the future."
