Fonterra Suppliers Confident in Mainland Dairy Future
Fonterra's 460 milk suppliers in Australia, who will switch to Lactalis end of this month, are unfazed with the impending change.
The Fonterra Shareholders Council supports the co-op board's decision to hold another vote on TAF.
Shareholders Council chair, Simon Couper says the announcement is an important and proactive one given the questions being raised in some parts of the shareholder base.
"This is the most important decision in the 10-year history of our co-op and it is only right that the concerns of our shareholders are heard and respected.
"Maintaining the co-op's unity is vital and, as such, shareholders must feel comfortable with the direction their co-op will travel."
Couper says this will be an opportunity for shareholders to engage with the TAF capital structure option in a constructive manner.
"There has been a lot of talk recently about ownership and control of the co-op, voting is our key control right and we must take responsibility and use it.
"I urge all farmers to demonstrate your rights and have your say in the future of Fonterra."
New Zealand's dairy and beef industries say they welcome the announcement that the Government will invest $10.49 million in the Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) programme.
New Zealand farming is riding a high, with strong prices, full feed covers and improving confidence lining up at the same time.
Manawatu Mayor Michael Ford says the district sees itself as the agribusiness capital of the lower North Island.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) is looking forward to connecting with farmers, rural professionals and community members at this year's Central District Field Days.
Labour Party Leader Chris Hipkins has announced a reshuffle of the party's caucus portfolios.
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says a series of rural resilienced set to be rolled out next week will help farmers and growers better prepared for adverse weather events.

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