Fonterra’s exit from Australia ‘a major event’
Fonterra’s impending exit from the Australian dairy industry is a major event but the story doesn’t change too much for farmers.
A new animal proteins analyst for New Zealand, Matt Costello, has been appointed to Rabobank's Food and Agribusiness Research & Advisory division.
Costello, who has strong experience as a researcher in the meat industry, joins senior analyst Hayley Moynihan, who specialises in the dairy sector.
"We're pleased to welcome Matt into our team here at Rabobank and I am confident his strong background in the animal proteins sector will be a great asset to help further support our clients in this industry in New Zealand," says Rabobank's head of Food and Agribusiness Research & Advisory Luke Chandler.
The local Australian and New Zealand research team is part of a global network of about 80 food and agriculture research analysts spread across every major production and consumption region of the world.
Based in Rabobank's Christchurch office, Costello will cover the New Zealand animal proteins sector, with a particular focus on sheep and beef.
After graduating with a bachelor of Agricultural Economics at Sydney University, Costello previously held the position of meat market analyst with Meat & Livestock Australia, in Sydney. He also conducted specialised research related to the South Asian region dealing with markets across Greater China, as well as South East Asia.
Costello says having grown up in a rural community (New South Wales, Australia) he had a natural appreciation for how important agriculture is to the local economy, a nation and globally.
"Working for Rabobank will give me the opportunity to provide analysis on current market trends and identify future business opportunities for clients," he says.
"As one of the most respected and leading agricultural nations in the world, working and interacting with New Zealand producers and industry across the entire supply chain is an exciting opportunity."
As part of his research role with Rabobank, Costello will deliver presentations at seminars, client functions, industry conferences and field days across New Zealand.
Former Fonterra executive Alex Turnbull has been appointed CEO to lead all five Yili Oceania Business Division companies in New Zealand.
Fonterra executive René Dedoncker is leaving the co-operative later this year to lead Australian agribusiness Elders.
Alliance Group and the Southland Stags rugby team have joined forces in a partnership that will see the the meat co-operative's farmgate brand feature on players' team kits and replica jerseys.
Fonterra's plan to expand its organic programme to the South Island is being well received by farmers, the co-op says.
Voting has started for the renewal of DairyNZ's milksolids levy.
The most successful catchment groups in NZ are those that have 'a source to sea' approach.

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