Key experts look at next decade

DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle says the event is aimed at equipping dairy farmers with the knowledge, information and tools they need to succeed in the next decade.

Key leader, industry advisors, research scientists and agribusiness professions will discuss the challenges and opportunities.

Speakers on the first day will share what's happening on the global and national scene.

"Farmers will hear how the landscape is shifting and how to prepare for these events to remain competitive," says Mackle.

DairyNZ chairman John Luxton will open the forum, followed by Minister for Primary Industries David Carter. Forum participants will be invited to submit questions to Carter when they register.

Fonterra CEO, Theo Spierings will share his views on the challenges and opportunities and how Fonterra is responding.

Providing insight into economic factors affecting dairy farmers is Cameron Bagrie, chief economist from ANZ-National Bank.

Jamie Tuuta, Maori Trustee and former chair of Parininihi ki Waitotara, will discuss the resurgence of Maori agri-business and opportunities to work together.

Forum participants can attend two of the four workshops available on the first day.

Andrew Watters from MyFarm will share insights into how outside investors are viewing the industry and best-selling author Martin Hawes will look at financial planning. Workshops covering dairy farm business governance and building human capability will also be available.

Mackle will outline DairyNZ's work in developing curriculum material for schools using dairying as a context for learning and results from surveys on public perception of dairying.

On the second day, themed 'your farm, your future', participants are able to tailor the programme to suit their specific interests through their selection of four workshops.

A plenary session will also bring together a panel of leading farmers to discuss the key challenges and opportunities.

A myth busting session will close the conference, addressing some of the facts and fallacies and what science is telling us.

Two important new dairy industry initiatives will be launched at the forum – the new Forage Value Index and PeopleSmart – a resource supporting effective people management.

Registration to the forum is is free to levy paying farmers and their staff. For others, the investment is $175 for both days of the forum, or $100 for one day.

Registration online prior to the event is essential and may close several days prior to the event, when the venue capacity is reached.