Thursday, 14 November 2024 07:55

SIDE 2025's new schedule, venue

Written by  Staff Reporters
2025 SIDE co-chairs Abby Rawcliffe (Left) and Myfanwy Alexander. 2025 SIDE co-chairs Abby Rawcliffe (Left) and Myfanwy Alexander.

Annual farmer gathering, the South Island Dairy Event (SIDE), is set to make history as it heads to Timaru for the first time.

The event is also breaking tradition by moving its annual gathering from June to April, a move that organisers say promises a fresh perspective and invigorated approach.

"Timaru isn't just another stop, it's the heartbeat of dairy farming in the South Island," says Myfanwy Alexander, Duntroon contract milker and co-chair of SIDE. "In an industry where change is constant and adaptation essential, choosing this location reflects our commitment not just to discuss success but to manifest it."

The upcoming conference on April 7th-9th 2025 marks a departure from last year's intellectually charged affair at Lincoln University - an event that was steeped in science and research while celebrating SIDE's 25th anniversary. This year's focus will be showcasing tangible achievements within dairy farming communities across the South Island.

"Dairying is grounded not in theory but in hands-on practice," says Abby Rawcliffe, fellow co-chair of SIDE and dairy farmer from Hunter Hills.

"Our choice to highlight real achievements reflects the practical mindset shared by our participants."

Established in 1998, SIDE's mission is to empower people in the South Island dairy sector to adapt and manage change. The conference is useful for those invested in advancing their skills through knowledge sharing.


Read More


BrightSIDE will also be back, an innovative one-day event designed for students, young farmers, or those seeking to enter or advance in the dairy industry, which will take place as part of the SIDE conference on Tuseday, April 8th.

With anticipation building around these two days packed full of informative workshops, inspiring keynote speakers and important networking opportunities, the SIDE Event is tailored toward empowering individuals involved throughout every level of dairy farming - be they veterans or newcomers to the industry, organisers say.

More like this

Keynote speakers lined up

SIDE 2024 organisers have secured some key speakers for the event. Here are four of the keynote speakers:

SIDE returns to Lincoln

The highly anticipated South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) is returning to Lincoln University.

Featured

Dairying deeply rooted in family

On the edge of the hot, dry Takapau plains, Norm and Del Atkins have cultivated a small but exceptional herd of 60 Holstein Friesian cows within their mixed breed herd of 360 dairy cows.

Mixed reaction to hiking levy rate

The DairyNZ board and management are currently trying to determine whether, and to what degree, their farmer levy payers will support any increase in their levy contributions.

Grasslanz scoops top science award

The Government's plan to merge the seven crown institutes presents exciting possibilities for plant technology company Grasslanz Technology, says chief executive Megan Skiffington.

National

Autumn drought challenge

After a dry summer, the challenge is what comes in autumn, according to Ballance Agri Nutrients science strategy manager Warwick…

Miraka CEO steps down

The chief executive of Taupo-based dairy company, Miraka – Karl Gradon - has stepped down from the role for personal…

Machinery & Products

Bigger but not numb

When you compare a RAM 1500 or Chevrolet Silverado to a Ford Ranger or a Toyota Hilux, you will understand…

Good just got great

Already well respected in the UTV sector for performance, reliability and a competitive price point, CFMOTO has upped the ante…

Nedap NZ launch

Livestock management tech company Nedap has launched Nedap New Zealand.

» Latest Print Issues Online

Milking It

Dairy awards

OPINION: Results of regional New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA) are trickling in but there's a worrying trend emerging.

Dock their pay

OPINION: It seems that the work rate of some parliamentarians is well below par.

» Connect with Dairy News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter