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.
Voting is now underway at Fonterra special meeting on TAF (trading among farmers).
The first two resolutions on approving TAF and necessary constitutional changes were put to vote after an hour-long debate.
While most farmers spoke in favour of TAF, South Canterbury farmer Leonie Guiney and former Federated Farmers Dairy chairman Lachlan McKenzie spoke against it.
Guiney says TAF puts the focus back on co-op shares. She says shares will rise and fall bringing greater volatility and increase redemption risk.
The first resolution on TAF requires a simple majority but constitutional changes require at least 75% support.
Fonterra director Jim van der Poel urged shareholders to support the constitutional changes although they oppose TAF.
He says the constitutional changes strengthen farmer ownership and control.
Results of the vote will be released this afternoon.
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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